Green Book

Main Plot

Green Book follows the journey of a working-class Italian-American bouncer named Tony Vallelonga, who is hired to drive and protect a renowned African-American pianist, Dr. Don Shirley, during a concert tour in the racially charged South in the 1960s. As they travel together, the two men, who come from vastly different backgrounds, confront their own prejudices and learn from each other. The film highlights the challenges they face due to societal racism and the personal struggles they endure along the way. Despite their differences, a bond begins to form as they navigate various obstacles, including hostile environments and cultural misunderstandings. The journey serves as a backdrop for exploring themes of friendship, acceptance, and the transformative power of music, ultimately showcasing how their relationship evolves against the backdrop of a divided America.

Characters

• Viggo Mortensen plays Tony Lip, an Italian-American bouncer who becomes the driver and bodyguard for African-American pianist Dr. Don Shirley during a concert tour in the 1960s Deep South.
• Mahershala Ali plays Dr. Don Shirley, a talented African-American pianist who embarks on a concert tour in the Deep South, challenging racial prejudices with his driver, Tony Lip.
• Linda Cardellini plays Dolores Vallelonga, Tony Lip's supportive wife, who encourages him during his journey and helps maintain family connections through letters.

Ending Explained

In the ending of Green Book, the main conflict between the two protagonists, Tony and Dr. Shirley, reaches a resolution as they complete their concert tour in the racially charged South. After a particularly tense performance in a segregated venue, where Dr. Shirley faces discrimination, Tony stands up for him, showcasing the deepening bond between them. The climax occurs when they confront the realities of racism and their own prejudices, leading to a moment of mutual respect and understanding. The film concludes with Tony driving Dr. Shirley back home to New York. During this journey, they share a heartfelt conversation, reflecting on their experiences and the growth they have undergone. Tony invites Dr. Shirley to his home for Christmas dinner, symbolizing the breaking down of barriers and the formation of a genuine friendship. This invitation signifies a shift in both their lives, as they embrace their differences and learn from each other. The ending encapsulates the film's overarching themes of friendship, acceptance, and the fight against prejudice. It highlights the transformative power of connection across cultural divides, leaving the audience with a sense of hope and the possibility of change in a divided society.