All the Wilderness

All the Wilderness

Year: 2015

Runtime: 85 min

Language: English

Director: Michael Johnson

Drama

Withdrawing from the world, James finds himself lost in a dreamlike realm of imagination and despair. A fragile connection with Val offers a glimmer of hope, but his resistance against his mother’s controlling nature pushes him deeper into an uncertain path. Within this mystical city, a cryptic guide appears, urging him to confront his inner demons and the harsh realities of his own struggles, ultimately forcing him to find his way.

Warning: spoilers below!

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Timeline – All the Wilderness (2015)

Trace every key event in All the Wilderness (2015) 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

James is chased by bullies

The film opens with James navigating through the woods, fleeing from a group of bullies. These woods, while initially seeming remote, are actually not far from the city where James lives.

Woods near the city
2

Flashbacks of James' father

Throughout the movie, James often reflects on his father, who had described the wilderness to him. These flashbacks highlight the strong emotional connection James had with his father and the impact of his loss on his current life.

3

James struggles with grief

Following the death of his father, James finds it difficult to connect with those around him. His mother, concerned about his mental state, decides to send him to a therapist to help him navigate his emotions.

4

Meeting with the therapist

James visits the therapist's office, where not much progress is made during the session. He eventually escapes the uncomfortable setting by claiming he needs to go to the restroom, showcasing his reluctance to open up.

Therapist's office
5

Encounter with Harmon

While attempting to flee the therapist, James encounters street musician Harmon. Their meeting marks the beginning of a pivotal friendship that helps James cope with his struggles and adds some joy to his life.

City streets
6

Bonding with friends

James and Harmon develop a close friendship, sharing adventures and deep conversations. They are often joined by Crystal, Harmon's friend, who adds a dynamic twist to their interactions with her unique perspective on relationships.

7

Exploration of new experiences

The trio finds themselves indulging in moments of freedom as they experiment with drugs and explore unconventional music scenes. These experiences provide a temporary escape from their everyday troubles and allow them to bond further.

8

Running into Val

During his adventures, James discovers the food truck where Val works. This serendipitous encounter leads to a budding friendship filled with lighthearted moments as they navigate their own difficulties in life.

Food truck location
9

Friendship with Val grows

As their friendship develops, James and Val begin enjoying time together away from the others. Their connection offers James a glimpse of a different life and potential happiness, countering his ongoing issues.

Wilderness area
10

Acceptance into prestigious school

James successfully gains admission into a prestigious school, which should be a moment of triumph. However, he struggles with the temptation to squander this opportunity as he remains caught up in his friendships with a less motivated crowd.

11

Conflict of values

Within his new school environment, James is confronted with a moral dilemma, exacerbated by his friends who encourage risky behavior. This conflict becomes a significant internal struggle as he weighs his aspirations against his current friendships.

12

James' emotional unraveling

As the film progresses, James's unresolved grief and growing disconnection from reality lead to moments of emotional breakdown. His journey reflects the complexities of adolescence and the challenges of fitting in.

13

Resolution with himself

Towards the film's conclusion, James must confront his feelings about his father's death and reassess his relationships. This leads to significant growth and an understanding of the importance of building a supportive community around him.

14

Looking towards the future

By the end of the movie, James begins to redefine his identity and purpose. With newfound friendships and understanding, he contemplates his future, realizing that while the wilderness symbolizes his father's memory, he has the power to shape his own path.

Last Updated: May 12, 2025 at 07:04

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All the Wilderness Summary

Read a complete plot summary of All the Wilderness, 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.

All the Wilderness Summary

Characters, Settings & Themes in All the Wilderness

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

Characters, Settings & Themes in All the Wilderness

More About All the Wilderness

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