Before Sunrise, released in 1995 and directed by Richard Linklater, is one of the most beloved rom-coms. Its conversational style has become a template and source of inspiration for many filmmakers. The film follows Jesse and Céline, two strangers who meet on a train and spend an unforgettable night exploring Vienna together. You can download the script below.
Key highlights of the screenplay:
Dialogue as Poetry
Before Sunrise has rich and lyrical dialogue, which serves as the primary means of storytelling. Jesse and Céline engage in deep, philosophical conversations about life, love, and the human condition, revealing their innermost thoughts and desires in a series of intimate exchanges. The script’s dialogue is both naturalistic and profound, inviting viewers to ponder the complexities of relationships and the passage of time.
Character-driven Storytelling
Before Sunrise is the quintessential character-driven film, with Jesse and Céline’s evolving relationship at its core. The script meticulously develops these characters, delving into their backgrounds, insecurities, and aspirations, as they navigate the uncertainties of young adulthood and the fleeting nature of their chance encounter. Through their interactions, viewers are drawn into their world and become emotionally invested in their journey.
Time and Place
Vienna serves as more than just a backdrop for Jesse and Céline’s romance; it becomes a character in its own right. The script vividly captures the sights, sounds, and atmosphere of the city, imbuing it with a sense of magic and nostalgia that enhances the film’s romantic allure. As Jesse and Céline wander through Vienna’s winding streets and picturesque landmarks, the city itself becomes a symbol of their fleeting romance and the transient nature of life.
Themes of Connection and Serendipity
Before Sunrise explores themes of connection and serendipity, as Jesse and Céline’s chance encounter blossoms into a profound and transformative experience. The script highlights the power of human connection to transcend time and space, as two strangers forge a deep and meaningful bond over the course of a single night. Their fleeting romance serves as a reminder of the beauty and fragility of life’s most precious moments.
Open-ended Conclusion
The script concludes with an open-ended finale, leaving the fate of Jesse and Céline’s relationship uncertain. As they part ways at sunrise, viewers are left to ponder the possibilities of what might have been and what the future holds for these star-crossed lovers. The script’s ambiguity adds to the film’s allure, inviting viewers to speculate on the nature of love and the passage of time.
Download the script below.
Related: Before Sunset screenplay
If you’d like to read more scripts, you can head to the Screenplays section.
To write your own screenplay using Scrite, head over to the Downloads section.