And Then I Go (2018) Characters, Setting & Themes Explained

The movie is set primarily in a junior high school, which serves as the central battleground for the pressures and conflicts faced by the main characters. The school environment is depicted as a microcosm of larger societal issues, with social hierarchies where bullying thrives and affects students' emotional well-being.

• junior high school
• school setting
• bullying environment

The film takes place in a contemporary setting, reflecting modern societal challenges around bullying and mental health among adolescents. This modern context makes the story's themes of school violence and adolescent alienation particularly relevant to current discussions.

• contemporary
• modern setting
• time period

The movie explores three interconnected themes: bullying as a devastating force that harms young people emotionally and psychologically; art and expression as a source of hope and self-identity for one character; and violence and retribution as a dangerous path that leads to tragic consequences.

• bullying
• art
• violence
• themes
• expression

Bullying stands as the central theme, depicting the relentless harassment that both Edwin and Flake endure from their peers. The film shows the emotional and psychological toll this takes, ultimately prompting their desire for retribution. It aims to raise awareness about the urgent need for compassion and intervention in schools.

• bullying
• school bullying
• harassment

Art serves as a symbol of hope and self-identity for Edwin, providing him a respite from his difficult life. His artistic talent is acknowledged by a teacher, which briefly boosts his self-esteem amid the surrounding turmoil. The theme emphasizes creative expression as an important coping mechanism for personal struggles.

• art
• creativity
• expression
• edwin

The two central characters are Edwin (played by Arman Darbo) and Flake (played by Sawyer Barth). Edwin is quiet, sensitive, and artistically talented, while Flake is impulsive and emotionally driven. Their friendship forms the emotional core of the film as they both struggle with being outsiders.

• edwin
• flake
• characters
• arman darbo
• sawyer barth

Edwin is motivated by a desire to be understood and accepted. He faces relentless bullying while receiving little support from his family, who dismiss his emotional distress. His artistic talent represents his primary source of confidence and identity, though he must ultimately confront his loyalty to Flake and his own feelings about their violent plans.

• edwin
• motivation
• family pressure
• bullying

Flake is driven by anger and a desire for revenge against those who have tormented him. His impulsive nature often pushes Edwin toward reckless decisions, and his obsession with retribution creates tension in their friendship. His violent tendencies ultimately lead to tragic consequences for both characters.

• flake
• revenge
• impulsiveness
• violence

The film presents violence as a dangerous and destructive force. It explores Edwin's internal conflict between loyalty to Flake and the temptation of retaliation against their bullies. The narrative ultimately shows that violent thoughts lead to devastating repercussions, urging viewers to consider the real-world impact of such choices.

• violence
• revenge
• consequences
• school shooting

The movie has an overwhelmingly dark and serious tone, focusing on adolescent alienation and school violence. Its pacing is steady and methodical, charting the characters' emotional descent without major shifts. The emotional weight is heavy, with a sad and devastating outcome that leaves no room for hope.

• tone
• atmosphere
• dark
• emotional weight

And Then I Go addresses several pressing social issues, including bullying in schools, adolescent mental health, and the growing concern of school violence. By setting the story in a contemporary junior high, the film connects to real-world discussions about how these issues affect students, families, and communities.

• social issues
• mental health
• school violence
• adolescent struggles