A Prairie Home Companion

A Prairie Home Companion

Year: 2006

Runtime: 105 min

Language: English

Director: Robert Altman

DramaComedyMusicMusical

As a long-running radio show comes to an end, the quirky cast and crew gather at the Fitzgerald Theater for a final performance. A private investigator watches from the sidelines, documenting the unfolding drama and observing personalities like Meryl Streep. With demolition planned for the historic theater, anticipation builds for the arrival of a mysterious figure from Texas. Garrison Keillor provides insightful commentary on change and the passage of time during this poignant farewell.

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Timeline – A Prairie Home Companion (2006)

Trace every key event in A Prairie Home Companion (2006) with our detailed, chronological timeline. Perfect for unpacking nonlinear stories, spotting hidden connections, and understanding how each scene builds toward the film’s climax. Whether you're revisiting or decoding for the first time, this timeline gives you the full picture.

1

Final Performance Announcement

The cast of the beloved radio variety show, A Prairie Home Companion, prepares for what will unknowingly be their last performance. Little do they know that the show is facing imminent cancellation due to the station's new parent company deciding to demolish the Fitzgerald Theater.

Fitzgerald Theater, Saint Paul, Minnesota
2

Musical Performances Begin

As the final show kicks off, the audience enjoys a series of captivating musical performances by the cast. Among the acts, the Johnson Girls, featuring Yolanda, Rhonda, and Lola, bring their melodious talents to the stage, delighting the listeners.

Fitzgerald Theater, Saint Paul, Minnesota
3

The Cowboy Duo Entertains

Fans are treated to the charming performance of the cowboy duo, Dusty and Lefty. Their lively act not only captures the hearts of the audience but also lifts the spirits of the cast amidst the impending closure of their show.

Fitzgerald Theater, Saint Paul, Minnesota
4

Cast Reflects on the Past

Various cast members, including PI Guy Noir and the expectant PA Molly, reminisce about the rich history and shared memories of A Prairie Home Companion. Amidst laughter and nostalgia, they confront the reality that their beloved show is coming to an end.

Backstage, Fitzgerald Theater
5

Appearance of the Dangerous Woman

An enigmatic figure known as the Dangerous Woman makes her way onto the stage, shrouded in mystery. This character, later revealed to be the deceased Lois Peterson, brings a message of comfort and closure to the cast and crew.

Fitzgerald Theater, Saint Paul, Minnesota
6

Chuck Akers' Backstage Death

The cast grapples with the emotional weight of mourning the recent death of their elderly friend and colleague, Chuck Akers. This loss serves as a poignant reminder of their shared journey and the fleeting nature of their time together.

Fitzgerald Theater, Saint Paul, Minnesota
7

The Axeman's Arrival

The foreboding figure known as the Axeman finally arrives at the theater, armed with the grim news that the show is too outdated to continue. Tension rises as the cast prepares to face the judgment that could seal their fate.

Fitzgerald Theater, Saint Paul, Minnesota
8

Asphodel's Intervention

Asphodel, the angelic version of the Dangerous Woman, steps in to confront the Axeman. Her appearance adds a mystical twist to the proceedings, as she attempts to guide him away from making a hasty decision about the show.

Fitzgerald Theater, Saint Paul, Minnesota
9

Show is Officially Canceled

Despite Asphodel's efforts to sway the Axeman, the cancellation of A Prairie Home Companion is confirmed. The news devastates the cast, who must come to grips with the end of an era in their lives.

Fitzgerald Theater, Saint Paul, Minnesota
10

Reunion at Mickey's Diner

Years later, the former cast members gather at Mickey's Diner to reminisce about their time on the show. During their lively discussion, they share hopes for a potential farewell tour, reigniting their passion for performance.

Mickey's Diner
11

Asphodel Appears Again

Just as their conversation flows with laughter and memories, Asphodel reenters their lives with an ethereal presence. Her arrival fills the diner with a sense of nostalgia, reminding everyone of the enduring impact of their show.

Mickey's Diner

Last Updated: November 15, 2024 at 19:30

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Stories centered on the poignant final act of a beloved institution or performance.Discover movies like A Prairie Home Companion that explore the bittersweet emotion of a final show or the end of an era. If you enjoyed the nostalgic farewell to the radio show, you'll find similar stories about artistic communities saying goodbye, blending performance, humor, and quiet contemplation of change.

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Narrative Summary

The narrative often unfolds in real time or over a short period leading up to a significant ending. It's less about external conflict and more about internal reflection, as characters share memories and engage in one last collective act, often punctuated by performances or quiet conversations that underscore the theme of legacy.

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They are grouped by their shared focus on endings as a central event, a bittersweet tone that mixes affection with loss, and a gentle pacing that allows for character-driven reflection rather than plot-heavy action.

Quiet and contemplative ensemble dramas similar to A Prairie Home Companion

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Narrative Summary

Stories in this thread unfold through vignettes and dialogue, with a linear or episodic structure. The plot is secondary to capturing a mood and exploring themes like the passage of time, community, and memory. There is often a subtle, whimsical, or metaphysical layer that adds depth without increasing intensity.

Why These Movies?

They share a specific combination of low intensity, slow pacing, and a bittersweet or melancholic tone. The experience is defined by a cozy, observational feel, where the pleasure comes from soaking in the atmosphere and the personalities of the ensemble.

Unlock the Full Story of A Prairie Home Companion

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A Prairie Home Companion Summary

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A Prairie Home Companion Summary

Characters, Settings & Themes in A Prairie Home Companion

Discover the characters, locations, and core themes that shape A Prairie Home Companion. Get insights into symbolic elements, setting significance, and deeper narrative meaning — ideal for thematic analysis and movie breakdowns.

Characters, Settings & Themes in A Prairie Home Companion

A Prairie Home Companion Spoiler-Free Summary

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A Prairie Home Companion Spoiler-Free Summary

More About A Prairie Home Companion

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