Guide Note

The Beach is a movie based on the 1996 novel of the same name by Alex Garland. The film follows the adventures of a young American and his travel to Southeast Asia in search of paradise.

Fast Facts

1. Directed by Danny Boyle
2. Produced by Andrew Macdonald
3. Written by John Hodge and Alex Garland
4. Released on February 2, 2000
5. Starring Leonardo DiCaprio, Tilda Swinton, Robert Carlyle, Virginie Ledoyen
6. Running Time: 119 Minutes
7. Budget: $50 million
8. Domestic Gross: $39.8 million

Leonardo DiCaprio plays Richard, a young kid in search something different. He didn't want the typical vacation, he wanted to experience something most people only dream of. His travels lead him to Thailand where he hears of an urban legend about a secret beach. One night in his room he talks with Daffy, one of the founders of the beach society, and he learns more about the paradise island. Daffy later commits suicide, leaving Richard a map to the beach. He sets out on what seems to be an impossible journey to that beach with a couple he met in Thailand. Days of traveling later they finally reach the spectacular island beach. All is not well however as they are not welcomed by the residents.