Editing Before Sunset (section)

=== Philosophical and Cultural Influence ===
The film’s dialogue-driven narrative engages deeply with existential themes, exploring concepts such as choice, regret, and the fleeting nature of happiness. Jesse and Céline openly discuss their life's missed opportunities, and scholars suggest that their conversations illustrate existential themes reminiscent of Søren Kierkegaard's philosophy, particularly regarding the struggle between idealistic desires and practical responsibilities.<ref name=":2">{{cite journal |last=Xavier |first=Zachary |year=2021 |title=The Kierkegaardian Existentialism of Richard Linklater's ''Before'' Trilogy |url=https://doi.org/10.3366/film.2021.0164 |journal=Film-Philosophy |volume=25 |issue=2 |pages=110–129 |doi=10.3366/film.2021.0164 |access-date=March 9, 2025|doi-access=free }}</ref> The film's open-ended conclusion further reinforces its existential themes, inviting viewers to reflect on choices, fate, and life's unpredictability.

The dialogues between Jesse and Céline often delve into existential questions, blending ordinary conversation with philosophical reflection. Scholars have highlighted how the trilogy, particularly ''Before Sunset'', explores melancholy, regret, and the passage of time in a subtle yet profound way, inviting viewers to engage personally with its philosophical themes.<ref name=":3">{{cite journal |last=Tőke |first=Lilla |date=May 24, 2024 |title=Review: ''Before Sunrise, Before Sunset, Before Midnight: A Philosophical Exploration'' |url=https://www.jprstudies.org/2024/05/review-before-sunrise-before-sunset-before-midnight-a-philosophical-exploration-ed-by-hans-maes-and-katrien-schaubroeck/ |journal=Journal of Popular Romance Studies |volume=13 |access-date=March 9, 2025}}</ref>