Cadet Kelly

Cadet Kelly

Year: 2002

Runtime: 100 mins

Language: English

Director: Larry Shaw

ComedyFamilyDramaUnderdogs and coming of ageQuirky and endearing relationships

When her new stepfather is appointed commandant of a strict military academy, hyperactive teen Kelly is sent there to meet his expectations. Initially rebelling against the rigid routine and struggling to follow orders, she eventually discovers purpose by joining the school's drill team, where she learns discipline and earns the respect of her peers.

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Timeline & Setting – Cadet Kelly (2002)

Explore the full timeline and setting of Cadet Kelly (2002). Follow every major event in chronological order and see how the environment shapes the story, characters, and dramatic tension.

Time period

Early 2000s

Set in contemporary times, the story follows a high school student navigating life between home and a military academy. The period reflects a blend of civilian youth culture and military school traditions, with focus on discipline, drills, and regional competitions. The timeframe anchors the characters' growth and the relationships they build.

Location

George Washington Military Academy, Upstate New York, Regional competition site, Cliffside location

George Washington Military Academy is the central setting where Kelly and cadets train under strict drill-structure. The move upstate marks a shift from art to discipline and teamwork. The regional competition and a cliffside rescue scene show how the academy's environment shapes the characters and their bonds.

🎖️ Military setting 🏫 Upstate 🗺️ Competition

Last Updated: October 03, 2025 at 10:19

Main Characters – Cadet Kelly (2002)

Meet the key characters of Cadet Kelly (2002), with detailed profiles, motivations, and roles in the plot. Understand their emotional journeys and what they reveal about the film’s deeper themes.

Kelly Collins (Hilary Duff)

A free-spirited high schooler who initially resists strict rules. Through late-night practice and hard work, she becomes a driving force in the drill team and finds belonging with mentors and friends.

🎯 Protagonist 🤝 Friend 🧭 Growth

Carla (Andrea Lewis)

A veteran student who mentors Kelly and helps her adapt to academy life. Loyal and practical, she pushes Kelly to rethink what it means to be part of a unit.

🤝 Ally 🧭 Mentor

Captain Jennifer Stone (Christy Carlson Romano)

The stern drill-sergeant who enforces discipline but also recognizes potential. Eventually collaborates with Kelly to fuse routines for regionals.

🎖️ Authority 🎯 Leadership 🤝 Mentor

Gloria (Aimee Garcia)

Kelly’s practical friend who offers steady support and helps her stay focused. She provides emotional balance and concrete assistance.

🤝 Friend 🧭 Support

Sir Joe Maxwell (Gary Cole)

Kelly’s stepfather and a Brigadier General who acts as a paternal figure. He guides Kelly, balancing strict expectations with genuine care.

👨‍👧 Father figure 🎖️ Military 🤝 Support

Amanda (Sarah Gadon)

Kelly’s best friend who remains a quiet anchor, offering emotional support as Kelly adjusts to her new life at the academy.

👭 Friend 🪪 Long-distance

Last Updated: October 03, 2025 at 10:19

Major Themes – Cadet Kelly (2002)

Explore the central themes of Cadet Kelly (2002), from psychological, social, and emotional dimensions to philosophical messages. Understand what the film is really saying beneath the surface.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Family

Kelly builds a surrogate family at the academy: her relationship with Sir as a father figure, and Gloria and Carla as loyal allies. The story explores belonging, mentorship, and how familial bonds can form in non-traditional settings.

🎯 Discipline & Growth

The film centers on transforming rebellion into teamwork. Kelly learns to channel energy into synchronized drill routines, discovering leadership and responsibility through rigorous practice.

🤝 Friendship

Friendships with Gloria and Carla provide emotional support and practical help. These bonds help Kelly navigate the harsh rules of the academy and grow beyond her initial resistance.

Last Updated: October 03, 2025 at 10:19

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Cadet Kelly Summary

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Cadet Kelly Summary

Cadet Kelly Timeline

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Cadet Kelly Timeline

Cadet Kelly Spoiler-Free Summary

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Cadet Kelly Spoiler-Free Summary

More About Cadet Kelly

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Cadet Kelly (2002) Plot Summary & Movie Recap

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