Evita 1996
Directed by
Alan Parker
Made by
Buena Vista Pictures
Plot Summary
Discover the intricate plot of Evita (1996). From unexpected twists to emotional highs and lows, this detailed summary breaks down every moment to give you a deeper understanding of the film’s story.
A cinematic adaptation of the immensely popular musical by Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice, “Evita” chronicles the tumultuous life of Argentina’s most polarizing First Lady, Eva Perón (1919 - 1952). The film opens with her magnificent funeral, drawing an astonishing seven million mourners, before the narrative transports us back over a decade, revealing how a struggling B-movie actress transformed into the figure of contentious adoration.
In the late 1930s, seeking escape from her mundane rural life, Eva Duarte (Madonna) persuades a charming yet unreliable musician, Jimmy Nail, to whisk her away to the vibrant capital, Buenos Aires, where she sets her sights on stardom. After facing abandonment and enduring dire straits, Eva cleverly navigates the entertainment industry, ultimately establishing herself as a sought-after radio and film star.
At a charity event aimed at aiding those affected by a devastating earthquake, she encounters Colonel Juan Perón (Jonathan Pryce), a rising politician with presidential aspirations. Their romance ignites, and Eva becomes an unwavering supporter of his ambition, even leveraging her influence to secure his release from prison when political adversaries conspire against him. By February 24, 1946, with a resounding majority, Perón ascends to the presidency, but it becomes evident that it is his captivating wife who captivates the masses.
Endearingly referred to as ‘Evita’ by her legions of followers, Eva establishes a vast charitable organization to alleviate the plight of the impoverished. Draped in high fashion, she faces accusations from a bitter and cynical narrator, Che (Antonio Banderas), who claims she distracts the populace rather than genuinely helping them. Despite a secret battle with terminal cancer, Eva continues to enchant her supporters, making public appearances that infuriate her detractors.
As the musical reaches its climax, Evita’s life tragically ends at the age of 33, plunging Argentina into a profound period of mourning. Renowned for its iconic songs, including the biting “Oh What a Circus!”, “Buenos Aires,” “Rainbow High,” “The Money Kept Rolling In,” and the hallmark solo “Don’t Cry for Me, Argentina,” the film introduces an original piece, “You Must Love Me,” further enriching its emotional tapestry.
Timeline
Track the key events of Evita (1996) with a comprehensive timeline. Perfect for understanding the sequence of major plot points, this feature offers clarity on how the story unfolds.
Eva's Funeral
The film opens with the magnificent funeral of Eva Perón, which is attended by an astonishing seven million mourners. This moment sets the tone for the story, reflecting both her impact on the nation and the palpable grief of her passing.
Escape to Buenos Aires
In the late 1930s, seeking to escape her mundane rural life, Eva Duarte persuades a charming yet unreliable musician to take her to Buenos Aires. This marks the beginning of her journey toward stardom, as she strives to leave her humble origins behind.
Struggle in the Spotlight
After arriving in Buenos Aires, Eva faces abandonment and dire circumstances that threaten her ambitions. However, she cleverly navigates the entertainment industry, eventually establishing herself as a sought-after star on radio and film.
Meeting Juan Perón
At a charity event aimed at helping earthquake victims, Eva encounters Colonel Juan Perón, who is a rising political figure. Their romance blooms as Eva becomes captivated by his ambition, marking the start of a powerful partnership.
Support for Perón
As their relationship deepens, Eva becomes an unwavering supporter of Juan Perón's political aspirations. She skillfully uses her influence to secure his release from prison when political enemies conspire against him, solidifying her role in his rise.
Perón's Presidency
On February 24, 1946, Juan Perón is elected president with a commanding majority, though it becomes clear that his captivating wife, Eva, holds the public's adoration. This marks a significant turning point in their political dynasty in Argentina.
Establishing Charitable Organization
Endearingly known as 'Evita,' Eva establishes a vast charitable organization aimed at aiding the impoverished citizens of Argentina. Her work garners immense support, though it also invites scrutiny and criticism from political opponents.
Accusations from Che
Despite her philanthropic efforts, Eva faces harsh criticisms from Che, the cynical narrator of her story. He accuses her of distracting the public from the true socio-political issues, revealing the complexity of her legacy.
Public Appearances Amidst Illness
Even as she battles terminal cancer in secret, Eva continues to make public appearances that enthrall her supporters. Her determination to remain in the limelight fuels the admiration of her followers while infuriating her detractors.
Eva's Passing
Tragically, Evita's life comes to an end at the young age of 33, leaving the nation in a profound state of mourning. Her death emphasizes the deep bond she formed with the people of Argentina, now faced with the loss of their beloved icon.
Legacy of the Musical
The film is renowned for its iconic songs that encapsulate Eva's tumultuous life, including 'Don't Cry for Me, Argentina.' These musical pieces not only capture her spirit but also contribute to the emotional depth of her narrative.
Final Days in Power
Towards the end of her life, Eva remains an influential figure, still captivating audiences even as her health deteriorates. The culmination of her journey is marked by her dedication to her cause, despite the rising tensions surrounding her political involvement.
Characters
Meet the characters that bring Evita (1996) to life. Dive into detailed profiles of the cast and their roles, exploring their motivations, relationships, and arcs within the story.
Eva Perón
Eva Perón, portrayed by Madonna, is a complex figure who transforms from a struggling actress into Argentina's beloved First Lady. Charismatic and ambitious, she navigates the male-dominated political landscape with skill and determination. While adored by many for her philanthropic work, she also faces harsh criticism, revealing the duality of her public persona.
Che
Che, played by Antonio Banderas, serves as a critical narrator and commentator on Eva's life. His perspective provides a cynical counterpoint to her glamorous image, questioning the authenticity of her charitable efforts. As a representation of the disillusioned populace, Che's character adds depth to the narrative, intertwining personal feelings with political realities.
Juan Perón
Juan Perón, portrayed by Jonathan Pryce, is depicted as a determined politician whose rise to power is closely tied to Eva's influence. Ambitious yet flawed, he navigates the complexities of leadership while relying on Eva's support to secure his position. Their partnership highlights the dynamics of love and power in the political arena.
Magaldi
Magaldi, played by Jimmy Nail, is a charming musician who initially lifts Eva from her mundane life. His unreliable nature serves as a contrast to Eva's determination, showcasing her struggle against abandonment. His character reflects the transient relationships that populate the entertainment industry during that era.
Setting
Uncover the settings of Evita (1996), from iconic locations to the time period that shapes its world. See how these elements add depth and context to the movie’s narrative.
Time period
1930s - 1950s
The film is set during a tumultuous period in Argentine history, marked by political strife and cultural transformation. From the late 1930s, as Eva Duarte escapes her rural life, the narrative spans into the 1950s, encompassing Eva's rise to power alongside her husband, Juan Perón. This era witnesses significant changes in Argentina's socio-political landscape, characterized by the influence of populism.
Location
Buenos Aires, Argentina
Buenos Aires, the vibrant capital of Argentina, is known for its rich cultural heritage and bustling arts scene. This city serves as a backdrop for the rise of Eva Perón, showcasing its glamour and challenges during the late 1930s and 1940s. Renowned for its passion, Buenos Aires played a crucial role in shaping Eva's journey from a struggling actress to a prominent political figure.
Themes
Explore the core themes of Evita (1996). From its commentary on social issues to its emotional undertones, delve into the deeper messages woven into the film’s story.
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Fame
The theme of fame is intricately woven throughout Eva Perón's story, showcasing both its alluring and destructive qualities. As Eva rises from obscurity to become a household name, she attracts both adoration and criticism. The film explores how fame shapes her identity and influence, ultimately impacting her political ambitions.
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Tragedy
Tragedy is a central theme in 'Evita', reflecting the personal struggles of Eva Perón amidst her public success. Her battle with terminal cancer serves as a poignant reminder of her humanity, contrasting with her larger-than-life persona. The film conveys how her tragic end leaves a profound impact on the nation, evoking both sorrow and reflection.
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Charity
Eva's charitable endeavors underscore the theme of altruism in her life. Driven by her experiences, she founds organizations aimed at supporting the less fortunate, showcasing her commitment to improving the lives of the impoverished. However, her actions are met with skepticism, illuminating the complex relationship between political power and genuine humanitarian efforts.
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