Before Series Movies: Watch Order & What to Know | Before Sunrise, Sunset, Midnight

The enduring appeal of Richard Linklater’s “Before” trilogy – Before Sunrise, Before Sunset, and Before Midnight – lies in its remarkably naturalistic portrayal of a relationship unfolding over nearly two decades. While the films are celebrated for their dialogue-driven narratives and intimate character studies, a recurring element, often discussed amongst fans, is the subtle humor woven throughout, a shared language between Jesse (Ethan Hawke) and Céline (Julie Delpy). It’s a humor that, for those “in the understand,” centers around a simple, recurring joke: brunch.

The “brunch joke,” as it’s affectionately known by devotees of the series, isn’t a punchline delivered with comedic timing. Instead, it’s a running gag built on the consistent, almost obsessive, avoidance of brunch by Jesse and Céline. In Before Sunrise, the idea is barely a blip. But by Before Sunset, the suggestion of brunch becomes a symbol of the conventional life they’ve both, in different ways, resisted. And in Before Midnight, it escalates into a full-blown comedic motif, representing the compromises and mundane realities of long-term commitment. The joke isn’t *that* they avoid brunch, but *how* consistently and pointedly they do so, often in moments of heightened emotional intensity.

The Evolution of a Running Gag

Richard Linklater, Ethan Hawke, and Julie Delpy collaborated closely on the scripts for all three films, and the evolution of the brunch joke is a testament to their shared creative vision. The initial seed of the idea reportedly came from Delpy, who observed how brunch had become a ubiquitous symbol of a certain lifestyle – one that Jesse and Céline, particularly in their younger years, actively rejected. As the characters aged and their lives became more complex, the avoidance of brunch took on new layers of meaning. It became a shorthand for their resistance to settling into predictable routines, a subtle rebellion against societal expectations.

In Before Sunset, the suggestion of brunch is made by Jesse as a way to prolong their time together in Paris, a last-ditch effort to recapture the magic of their first encounter. Céline’s immediate dismissal of the idea is telling. It’s not simply about disliking brunch; it’s about a fear of what brunch represents – the inevitable march of time and the potential for their connection to fade into the ordinary. The scene is particularly poignant given the film’s exploration of missed opportunities and the weight of regret.

By Before Midnight, the joke has fully blossomed. The couple is now navigating the challenges of marriage and parenthood while vacationing in Greece. The repeated mentions of brunch, often during arguments or moments of vulnerability, serve as a darkly humorous counterpoint to the seriousness of their discussions. It’s a way for them to acknowledge the absurdity of their situation, to find a fleeting moment of levity amidst the complexities of their relationship. The joke highlights the tension between their idealistic past and their pragmatic present.

Beyond the Joke: Symbolism and Resonance

The brilliance of the brunch joke lies in its ability to function on multiple levels. On a superficial level, it’s simply a funny running gag that rewards attentive viewers. But on a deeper level, it’s a powerful symbol of the compromises and sacrifices inherent in any long-term relationship. Brunch, represents the mundane routines and societal expectations that can threaten to erode the passion and spontaneity of early love.

The joke too speaks to the characters’ intellectual and artistic sensibilities. Jesse and Céline are both writers, and they are acutely aware of the clichés and conventions of romantic narratives. Their avoidance of brunch can be seen as a rejection of those clichés, a desire to forge their own path and define their relationship on their own terms. It’s a subtle act of defiance against the forces of conformity.

Richard Linklater has spoken about the importance of authenticity in his filmmaking, and the brunch joke is a perfect example of his commitment to capturing the nuances of real life. The joke doesn’t feel contrived or forced; it emerges organically from the characters’ personalities and their evolving relationship. It’s a testament to the power of subtle humor to reveal deeper truths about the human condition.

Will There Be a “Before” Sequel?

The question on many fans’ minds is whether Jesse and Céline’s story will continue. In a recent interview, Richard Linklater indicated that he hasn’t ruled out the possibility of a fourth film in the series. According to The Playlist, Linklater stated, “Don’t count us out.” He acknowledged the challenges of revisiting the characters after so many years, but he also expressed a willingness to explore their story further if the right idea came along.

Ethan Hawke has also expressed interest in revisiting the characters, suggesting that there are still stories to be told. As reported by JoBlo, Hawke has indicated a willingness to collaborate with Linklater and Delpy on another film. But, he also emphasized the importance of having a compelling story to tell, rather than simply revisiting the characters for the sake of it.

If a fourth film were to materialize, it’s safe to assume that the brunch joke would make a return. Perhaps Jesse and Céline would finally succumb to the temptation of a leisurely weekend brunch, or perhaps they would continue to resist its allure. Regardless, the joke would undoubtedly serve as a reminder of their shared history and their enduring connection. It’s a small detail, but it’s one that has resonated deeply with fans of the “Before” trilogy, and it’s a testament to the power of subtle humor to capture the complexities of human relationships.

For now, fans can revisit the existing three films and continue to debate the meaning of the brunch joke. It’s a conversation that is likely to continue for years to come, a testament to the enduring legacy of Richard Linklater’s remarkable trilogy. The next update regarding a potential fourth installment is anticipated following discussions between Linklater, Hawke, and Delpy, with no firm timeline currently established.

What are your thoughts on the “Before” trilogy and the infamous brunch joke? Share your insights and favorite moments in the comments below!