A Perfect World

A Perfect World

Year: 1993

Runtime: 138 min

Language: English

DramaThrillerCrime

After escaping from a Texas prison, Butch finds himself on the run with an unexpected companion – eight-year-old Philip. As they journey across the American Southwest, an unlikely bond develops between them. Pursuing the escaped convict is Red Garnett, a determined Texas Ranger who grapples with his duty to uphold the law and his desire to shield a young boy from danger. The ranger’s pursuit becomes a complex moral dilemma as he witnesses the evolving relationship between Butch and Philip.

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Timeline & Setting – A Perfect World (1993)

Explore the full timeline and setting of A Perfect World (1993). Follow every major event in chronological order and see how the environment shapes the story, characters, and dramatic tension.

Time period

Location

Texas

The movie takes place in a small Texas town, characterized by its close-knit community and rustic charm. Known for its warm climate and open fields, this town serves as the backdrop for the unfolding drama between the convicts and their hostage. Its ordinary setting juxtaposes the extraordinary circumstances faced by the characters, emphasizing themes of innocence and danger.

🏞️ Landscape 🏘️ Small Town

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 19:56

Main Characters – A Perfect World (1993)

Meet the key characters of A Perfect World (1993), with detailed profiles, motivations, and roles in the plot. Understand their emotional journeys and what they reveal about the film’s deeper themes.

Butch Haynes (Kevin Costner)

Butch Haynes is a complex character navigating life as a convict. Charismatic yet troubled, his interactions with Philip reveal a dual nature: a playful mentor and a violent criminal. His past experiences shape his actions, creating a tragic figure whose choices lead to dire consequences.

🚨 Escapist 🎩 Charismatic ⚔️ Troubled

Philip Perry (T.J. Lowther)

Philip Perry is an 8-year-old boy caught in a situation beyond his control. Innocent and sheltered due to his family's religious beliefs, he evolves throughout the story as he forms an unexpected connection with Butch. His character represents the fragility of childhood in the face of adult chaos.

👦 Innocent 🏡 Sheltered 🌱 Evolving

Gladys Perry (Jennifer Griffin)

Gladys Perry, Philip's mother, embodies the protective instincts of a parent driven by faith and duty. Her character showcases the challenges of raising a child in a restrictive environment while attempting to shield them from the dangers of the outside world. Her decisions reflect her devotion but also highlight the limitations of isolation.

👩‍👦 Protective 🙏 Faithful 💔 Devoted

Red Barnett (Clint Eastwood)

Red Barnett is a Texas Ranger tasked with capturing the fugitives. He embodies a sense of duty and resolve, often conflicted in his methods and the urgency of the situation. Red's character reflects the complexities of law enforcement and the moral dilemmas presented in a manhunt scenario.

🚓 Determined ⚖️ Duty-Bound 🤔 Conflicted

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 19:56

Major Themes – A Perfect World (1993)

Explore the central themes of A Perfect World (1993), from psychological, social, and emotional dimensions to philosophical messages. Understand what the film is really saying beneath the surface.

🤝 Bonding

A central theme in the film is the unexpected bond that develops between Butch and Philip. Amidst the chaos of their situation, moments of levity and connection illustrate how relationships can flourish in dire circumstances. This bond ultimately highlights the tragedy of their plight, as their time together deepens both characters' experiences of life and loss.

🎭 Identity

Identity plays a crucial role in the narrative, particularly through Philip's upbringing and Butch's criminal background. The film explores how circumstances shape individuals and their morality. Philip's sheltered life contrasts sharply with Butch's experiences, leading to a complex exploration of what it means to grow up in a flawed world.

🕊️ Innocence

The theme of innocence is prevalent throughout the film, primarily represented by Philip's character. His naivety is challenged as he navigates the kidnapping scenario, highlighting the loss of childhood that comes with trauma and violence. This theme is reinforced by the tragic events that transpire, culminating in a poignant reflection on life's fragility.

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 19:56

Unlock the Full Story of A Perfect World

Don't stop at just watching — explore A Perfect World in full detail. From the complete plot summary and scene-by-scene timeline to character breakdowns, thematic analysis, and a deep dive into the ending — every page helps you truly understand what A Perfect World is all about. Plus, discover what's next after the movie.

A Perfect World Summary

Read a complete plot summary of A Perfect World, including all key story points, character arcs, and turning points. This in-depth recap is ideal for understanding the narrative structure or reviewing what happened in the movie.

A Perfect World Summary

A Perfect World Timeline

Track the full timeline of A Perfect World with every major event arranged chronologically. Perfect for decoding non-linear storytelling, flashbacks, or parallel narratives with a clear scene-by-scene breakdown.

A Perfect World Timeline

More About A Perfect World

Visit What's After the Movie to explore more about A Perfect World: box office results, cast and crew info, production details, post-credit scenes, and external links — all in one place for movie fans and researchers.

More About A Perfect World

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