Always

Always

Year: 1989

Runtime: 122 min

Language: English

Director: Steven Spielberg

DramaFantasyRomance

In Hong Kong, lawyer Liam unexpectedly falls for Yan Li, a captivating heiress from Shanghai. Their burgeoning romance challenges social conventions and expectations as they navigate a passionate relationship amidst the vibrant cityscape. They must confront the complexities of their differing backgrounds and the obstacles that arise as they pursue their love.

Warning: spoilers below!

Haven’t seen Always yet? This summary contains major spoilers. Bookmark the page, watch the movie, and come back for the full breakdown. If you're ready, scroll on and relive the story!

Timeline & Setting – Always (1989)

Explore the full timeline and setting of Always (1989). Follow every major event in chronological order and see how the environment shapes the story, characters, and dramatic tension.

Time period

The movie unfolds in a contemporary era with advancements in aviation technology, juxtaposed against the backdrop of timeless themes of love and loss. The events take place during an active fire season, emphasizing the urgent and high-stakes nature of wildfire combat. The characters deal with personal and professional challenges that reflect broader societal issues surrounding safety and duty.

Location

Flat Rock, Colorado, serves as the backdrop for much of the action, particularly the air attack training base where pilots learn to combat wildfires. Known for its scenic beauty, it is also a place filled with stories of courage and sacrifice. San Diego is mentioned as a contrasting location where Dorinda works as an air traffic controller, showcasing the different facets of life outside the firefighting arena.

🏞️ Location ✈️ Aviation

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 20:08

Main Characters – Always (1989)

Meet the key characters of Always (1989), with detailed profiles, motivations, and roles in the plot. Understand their emotional journeys and what they reveal about the film’s deeper themes.

Pete Sandich

Pete Sandich is a fearless firefighter deeply committed to battling wildfires from the cockpit of his water bomber. His daredevil attitude both inspires and concerns those around him, particularly his girlfriend Dorinda. After his tragic death, Pete's spirit takes on the role of a mentor, showcasing his profound love and desire to protect those he cares about.

🔥 Firefighter ❤️ Love ✈️ Daredevil

Dorinda Durston

Dorinda is a strong and independent woman who works as an air traffic controller. Her deep love for Pete is a driving force in her life, leading her to grapple with her emotions after his death. As she navigates her new realities, Dorinda shows remarkable resilience and determination as she faces the dangers of aerial firefighting.

❤️ Love ✈️ Air Traffic Controller 💪 Strength

Al Yackey

Al Yackey is a dedicated firefighter and Pete's best friend who is constantly worried about Pete's reckless behavior. As the narrative unfolds, Al takes on a significant leadership role at the training base, balancing his concern for his friends with his responsibilities as an instructor. His growth reflects the pressures of leadership in high-stakes environments.

🔥 Firefighter 🤝 Friendship 👨‍✈️ Leader

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 20:08

Major Themes – Always (1989)

Explore the central themes of Always (1989), from psychological, social, and emotional dimensions to philosophical messages. Understand what the film is really saying beneath the surface.

🔥 Sacrifice

The theme of sacrifice resonates deeply throughout the movie, as characters face life-and-death situations while fighting wildfires. Pete's ultimate sacrifice highlights the selflessness often required in dangerous professions. Furthermore, characters like Dorinda show their readiness to risk themselves for the sake of others, showcasing the lengths to which love and duty can drive individuals.

❤️ Love

Love serves as a central theme that binds the characters together, most notably the poignant relationship between Pete and Dorinda. Even after death, Pete's love influences Dorinda's decisions, and his desire for her happiness drives the narrative. This entangled love story explores how love transcends life and death, leaving a lasting impact on the souls involved.

✈️ Courage

Courage is exemplified through the characters who face immense danger in their fight against wildfires. Pete and his friends are portrayed as brave souls who risk their lives for the safety of others. This theme is amplified in moments where Dorinda, despite her fears, steps into the cockpit to save lives, embodying the essence of courage under pressure.

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 20:08

Unlock the Full Story of Always

Don't stop at just watching — explore Always 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 Always is all about. Plus, discover what's next after the movie.

Always Summary

Read a complete plot summary of Always, 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.

Always Summary

Always Timeline

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

Always Timeline

More About Always

Visit What's After the Movie to explore more about Always: 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 Always

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