The Triplets of Belleville 2003
Directed by
Sylvain Chomet
Made by
Sony Pictures Classics
Plot Summary
In France, Madame Souza is raising her grandson Champion, a sorrowful orphan who finds little joy in life. They often watch an old variety show featuring the Triplets of Belleville, a trio of singers named Rose, Blanche, and Violette. One day, when the program is disrupted, Souza turns to Champion and asks if the “film” has ended. The indifferent Champion simply changes the channel to a piano concert. Noticing his fascination with the music, Souza gets out an old piano in an attempt to cheer him up, but her efforts go unrewarded as Champion remains detached. Sensing his loneliness, she decides to bring him a dog, Bruno, but even this furry companion, with his simple pleasures of eating, sleeping, and barking at trains, fails to lift Champion’s spirits.
While organizing Champion’s room, Souza stumbles upon a book filled with photographs of cyclists, igniting a spark in Champion. She then purchases a tricycle for him, marking the beginning of his obsession with cycling. Fast forward a few years, and Champion finds himself racing in the prestigious Tour de France. However, during the event, he is kidnapped by two mobsters in a Citroën van, whisking him and two other contestants away across the Atlantic Ocean. Not one to be left behind, Souza bravely sets off after them on a pedalo.
Upon reaching the United States, both penniless and hungry, Souza and the rotund Bruno are taken in by the aging Triplets of Belleville, who have since moved into a dilapidated apartment. When they finally sit down for dinner, they are served an unappetizing feast of frog soup and frog stew, with tadpoles as dessert, collected by Violette using “expanding bait.” In a bid to contribute, Souza joins the Triplets’ band, where she creatively plays bicycle spokes as if they were a dulcimer, accompanied by a refrigerator-shelf harp, newspaper percussion, and a vacuum-cleaner bagpipe. It is during one of their performances that Souza spots the kidnappers. With the help of the Triplets, she manages to rescue the cyclists, who had been forced to pedal a gambling machine, and they make a daring escape on a pedaling frame while being chased by the mobsters in their Citroën sedans.
In a poignant flashforward, an older Champion finds himself watching television once again, this time captivated by the broadcast of their adventure as they flee the city. He recalls the question Souza posed earlier and gazes at the empty seat beside him, softly declaring, > “It’s over, Grandma.”
In a whimsical post-credits scene, the boatman who rented Souza the pedalo is humorously shown waiting patiently for the return of his vessel.
Timeline
Champion's Orphanhood
Madame Souza raises her grandson Champion, who is a sorrowful orphan finding little joy in life. Despite her best efforts to bring him happiness, he remains detached and indifferent.
The Variety Show
Souza and Champion often watch an old variety show featuring the Triplets of Belleville, a trio of singers. This show becomes a significant part of their life, although it leads to Champion's indifference when it abruptly ends.
A Failed Attempt at Cheer
In an effort to uplift Champion's spirits, Souza brings out an old piano for him to play. Despite her sincere intentions, Champion remains disengaged and uninterested in the music.
Introducing Bruno
To combat Champion's loneliness, Souza decides to adopt a dog named Bruno. Although Bruno brings joy with his playful antics, it does little to alter Champion's melancholy demeanor.
Discovery of Cycling Passion
While organizing Champion's room, Souza stumbles upon a book of photographs showcasing cyclists, igniting Champion's interest in cycling. This marks the beginning of his journey into the world of biking.
Champion Enters Tour de France
Years later, Champion, now an avid cyclist, participates in the prestigious Tour de France. His passion for cycling has grown tremendously, showcasing his development from a sorrowful child to a determined athlete.
Champion's Abduction
During the Tour de France, Champion is kidnapped by two mobsters in a Citroën van. This unexpected turn of events shifts the focus from the race to a desperate rescue effort.
Souza's Brave Pursuit
Unwilling to let Champion be taken, Souza courageously chases after the kidnappers on a pedalo. This depicts her determination and love for her grandson, setting the stage for her own adventure.
Arrival in the United States
Souza and Bruno make their way to the United States, arriving penniless and hungry. They find refuge with the aging Triplets of Belleville, who provide them with shelter.
Dinner with the Triplets
At dinner in the Triplets' dilapidated apartment, Souza is served an unappetizing meal of frog soup and frog stew. The dinner highlights the eccentricity and resourcefulness of the Triplets, setting an unusual tone.
Joining the Band
To help out, Souza contributes to the Triplets' band by playing bicycle spokes as musical instruments. Her ingenuity showcases a blend of creativity and resourcefulness, enhancing their performances.
Rescue Operation
During a performance, Souza spots the kidnappers and teams up with the Triplets to rescue the cyclists. They formulate a daring escape plan while being chased by the mobsters, adding urgency to their adventure.
Flashforward to Champion's Reflection
In a poignant moment, an older Champion watches television, reminiscing about the earlier events. He reflects on the journey alongside Souza, evoking nostalgia and a sense of closure.
Moment of Closure
Champion gazes at the empty seat beside him, softly declaring, 'It's over, Grandma.' This statement signifies his acceptance of the journey they shared and the grief of losing her.
Post-Credits Scene
In a whimsical scene, the boatman who rented Souza the pedalo is humorously shown waiting for the return of his vessel. This light-hearted moment adds a comedic touch to the film’s conclusion.
Characters
Madame Souza
Madame Souza is a determined and loving grandmother who goes to great lengths to bring joy to her grandson, Champion. Her character embodies resilience and creativity, as she not only encourages Champion's cycling passion but also improvises with music to uplift the spirits of those around her. Souza's bravery stands out, especially when she pursues the kidnappers across the ocean.
Champion
Champion is portrayed as a sorrowful young man whose initial detachment from life changes as he discovers his love for cycling. His journey from indifference to passion exemplifies character development, and his kidnapping acts as a catalyst for his adventurous spirit. Though initially passive, his evolution reveals a determined and resilient nature.
Bruno
Bruno is a lovable and supportive dog who represents loyalty and companionship throughout the film. His simple joys and unwavering presence by Souza's side provide her with comfort during her challenges. Bruno's character adds a whimsical element to the story, enhancing the emotional depth of the narrative.
Triplets of Belleville
The Triplets, consisting of Rose, Blanche, and Violette, are eccentric and resourceful musicians known for their creative improvisations with everyday objects. Their quirky demeanor and willingness to help Souza illustrate the importance of friendship and teamwork in overcoming obstacles. Their past as performers adds a layer of charm and nostalgia to the film.
Setting
Time period
The story unfolds in a contemporary setting, reflective of early 21st-century culture with its references to television and cycling events like the Tour de France. The timeline also includes a nostalgic recall to a simpler time of variety shows that celebrates music and entertainment.
Location
France, United States
The movie primarily takes place in France, where Madame Souza raises her grandson in the shadows of the exciting world of cycling. The adventure then shifts to the United States, highlighting the disparity and challenges faced by Souza and her dog Bruno as they seek to rescue Champion. Both locations play a crucial role in the development of Champion's character and his passion for cycling.
Themes
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Perseverance
The theme of perseverance is central to the film, as demonstrated by Madame Souza's relentless determination to lift Champion's spirits and pursue his passion for cycling. Even in the face of adversity and challenges, Souza exhibits a fierce tenacity, risking everything to rescue her grandson. This theme resonates throughout the film, encouraging viewers to pursue their dreams against all odds.
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Music and Nostalgia
Music serves as a vital link connecting the characters and their pasts. The nostalgia is palpable as the old variety shows featuring the Triplets trigger memories for both Souza and Champion. The innovative use of household items as instruments by the Triplets reflects the theme of creativity and resourcefulness, enhancing the emotional depth of the storytelling.
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Companionship
The bond between characters, particularly between Souza and her loyal dog Bruno, highlights the theme of companionship. Despite their struggles, the presence of loyalty and support amidst chaos provides warmth and motivation to overcome life's hurdles. This theme emphasizes that meaningful relationships can be a source of strength in difficult times.
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