The Legend of 1900

Main Plot

"The Legend of 1900" is a cinematic exploration of an extraordinary life set against the backdrop of the early 20th century. The film centers on 1900, a virtuoso pianist born on a transatlantic steamship, the Virginian, who never sets foot on land throughout his life. Discovered as an infant in the ship's ballroom, 1900 grows up surrounded by the diverse cultures of the ship's passengers and the constant churn of the sea. His musical talent is nurtured in this unique environment, leading him to become a renowned pianist who plays for the ship's guests. The narrative unfolds through the eyes of Max, a trumpeter who becomes 1900's friend and confidant. Through his storytelling, we learn about 1900's magical ability to create music that captivates anyone who hears it, reflecting his interpretations of the world he sees from the ship. The film delves into themes of isolation, the meaning of home, and the transcendental power of music. As 1900 faces the choice of whether to finally leave the ship and explore the world beyond, the story builds to a poignant conclusion.

Characters

• Tim Roth plays Danny Boodmann T.D. Lemon Nineteen Hundred, a virtuoso pianist who lives his entire life aboard an ocean liner, enchanting passengers with his music.
• Pruitt Taylor Vince plays Max Tooney, a trumpeter who narrates the story of a piano prodigy born and raised on an ocean liner.
• Mélanie Thierry plays "The Girl," a romantic interest of the protagonist, 1900. She symbolizes his connection to the outside world and unattainable love.

Ending Explained

At the conclusion of Giuseppe Tornatore's film "The Legend of 1900," the protagonist, 1900 (played by Tim Roth), a virtuoso pianist born and raised on an ocean liner, faces a pivotal decision. Throughout the movie, 1900 has never left the ship, finding the vastness of the ocean less daunting than the idea of the outside world. His friend Max, portrayed by Pruitt Taylor Vince, tries to convince him to disembark before the ship is demolished, as it is no longer in service. In the film's climax, Max, who has left the ship, returns to persuade 1900 to leave with him. He finds 1900 still playing piano in the ship's ballroom. Despite Max's pleas, 1900 decides to stay on the ship, explaining his fear of the infinite choices the real world offers, which he finds overwhelming compared to his familiar, finite world on the ship. The movie ends with the ship being towed out to sea for demolition. As it explodes, it is implied that 1900 chooses to go down with the ship, remaining true to his identity and the only world he has ever known, reflecting his deep connection to the ship and his fear of the unknown.