Before Sunrise

Synopsis

In one volume, the screenplays to two contemporary classics, directed by Richard Linklater, and starring Ethan Hawke and Julie Delpy, about the immediate and life-altering attraction between two strangers.

   On a train from Budapest to Vienna, Jesse, a young American student, at the end of a romance and his European trip, meets Celine, a young French woman. They are immediately attracted. Despite knowing this may be the only time they will see each other, in the next few hours in the city of Vienna, they share everything and promise to meet again. 

   Nearly a decade later, Jesse, now a novelist on a publicity tour, sees Celine in a bookstore in Paris. Again their time is short, and they spend it reestablishing the connection they experienced on their first meeting. Romantic, poignant, understated, and often profound, these two screenplays are sure to become classics in their own right.

Summary

Chapter 1: The Train to Vienna

Jesse, an American tourist, boards a train bound for Vienna. He meets Céline, a French student studying in Paris. They strike up a conversation that quickly delves into deep topics such as love, life, and philosophy.
Example: "I think love is the most powerful force in the world," Jesse says. "It has the ability to change people, to make them better or worse."

Chapter 2: Strolling Through Vienna

Jesse and Céline decide to get off the train at Vienna and explore the city together. They walk through the streets, sharing stories and insights about their lives.
Example: Céline tells Jesse about her fascination with psychology. "I want to understand why people think and act the way they do," she says. "I think it's the key to unlocking the mysteries of human relationships."

Chapter 3: Conversations at a Cafe

They stop at a cafe and order coffee. They continue their discussions, covering topics such as art, music, and the nature of relationships.
Example: Jesse and Céline debate the importance of authenticity in art. "I think art should be true to the artist's experience," Jesse argues. "It shouldn't be watered down or distorted to appeal to a wider audience."

Chapter 4: Nighttime in the City

As the sun sets, Jesse and Céline walk through the city's streets. They encounter street musicians and other characters that add to the bohemian atmosphere.
Example: They meet a young artist who paints portraits for a few coins. Céline gets her portrait done, and the artist captures her enigmatic expression.

Chapter 5: Reflections at the Danube River

They reach the Danube River and sit on a bench overlooking the water. They reflect on their day together and contemplate the nature of their connection.
Example: "It feels like we've known each other for a lifetime," Jesse says. "I've never connected with anyone in this way before."

Chapter 6: The End of the Night

As it gets late, Jesse and Céline realize that it's time to part ways. They exchange phone numbers, knowing that their chance encounter may be the beginning of something special.
Example: They stand on the street corner, saying goodbye. "I hope this isn't the last time we see each other," Céline says. "I have a feeling we'll meet again someday."