Crossing Over

Crossing Over

Year: 2009

Runtime: 113 min

Language: English

Director: Wayne Kramer

Drama

In a nation built on hope and opportunity, the pursuit of citizenship becomes a high-stakes game. While some navigate the arduous bureaucratic route, others resort to underhanded means, trading sex, violence, and deception as their ticket into the promised land. The line between legal entry and desperate measures blurs, revealing a darker side of the American dream.

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Timeline & Setting – Crossing Over (2009)
Explore the full timeline and setting of Crossing Over (2009). Follow every major event in chronological order and see how the environment shapes the story, characters, and dramatic tension.

Time period

The story unfolds in contemporary times, reflecting modern-day immigration issues that resonate worldwide. It captures real-life challenges faced by immigrants amid harsh policies, personal struggles, and societal expectations. The film sheds light on the emotional and political climates that define the immigrant experience today.

Location

Mexico, United States

The movie spans significant locations, including the bustling landscapes of the United States and the serene yet challenging terrains of Mexico. These places highlight the complexities of immigration, where families often cross borders for safety and opportunity. The U.S. serves as a land of dreams for many immigrants, while Mexico embodies family roots and heartbreaking farewells.

🌍 Locations 🇺🇸 Immigration

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 20:07

Main Characters – Crossing Over (2009)
Meet the key characters of Crossing Over (2009), with detailed profiles, motivations, and roles in the plot. Understand their emotional journeys and what they reveal about the film’s deeper themes.

Max Brogan (Harrison Ford)

Max Brogan is a compassionate immigration officer who takes on personal responsibility for Mireya's young son after his mother is tragically deported and murdered. His character embodies the struggle between duty and empathy, as he grapples with the weight of responsibility while navigating the harsh realities of the immigration system. Brogan's actions reflect a deep care for family and the innocence of children caught in circumstances beyond their control.

👮‍♂️ Officer ❤️ Compassionate 👨‍👦 Protector

Cole Frankel (Ashley Judd)

Cole Frankel is a morally ambiguous immigration officer who navigates personal desires and professional obligations. Initially driven by self-interest, he finds himself in a complicated romantic relationship with Claire, revealing his vulnerabilities and the consequences of his actions. Cole's journey explores themes of redemption and the blurred line between right and wrong in the pursuit of love and status.

🕵️‍♂️ Corrupt 💔 Complicated 🔄 Redemption

Denise Frankel

Denise Frankel is depicted as a caring mother who adopts a Nigerian girl from a detention center, showcasing her commitment to nurture and family. Her character reflects the challenges of raising a family under uncertain circumstances while also addressing the societal impacts of immigration policies. Denise's actions reveal a compassionate side amid the harsh realities of their lives.

👩‍👧 Adoptive Mother 💞 Compassionate 🌍 Humanitarian

Taslima Jahangir

Taslima Jahangir is a 15-year-old girl navigating the tumultuous waters of identity and belonging amid challenging circumstances. Her advocacy at school for a deeper understanding of the 9/11 hijackers showcases her desire for awareness and empathy. Taslima's story reveals the painful conflicts faced by immigrant families and the harsh consequences of systemic injustices.

👧 Young Immigrant 📚 Advocacy 💔 Brave

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 20:07

Major Themes – Crossing Over (2009)
Explore the central themes of Crossing Over (2009), from psychological, social, and emotional dimensions to philosophical messages. Understand what the film is really saying beneath the surface.

🏘️ Family

Family serves as a central theme, intertwining various narratives as characters navigate love, responsibility, and tragic loss. The bonds between parents and children are tested, showcasing the heartache experienced when families are separated due to immigration laws. It emphasizes the importance of familial connections, love, and sacrifice in overcoming adversity.

⚖️ Justice

Justice is a significant theme reflecting the legal struggles faced by the characters throughout the film. With various perspectives on morality, each character grapples with the laws governing their lives, revealing the often unjust consequences of these regulations. The film challenges viewers to consider the broader implications of immigration policy on human lives and societal fairness.

💔 Heartbreak

Heartbreak permeates the film, as characters endure loss, betrayal, and the harsh realities of immigration decisions. The poignant stories showcase the emotional toll on individuals and families caught in the web of bureaucracy and personal conflicts. It forces viewers to confront the painful sacrifices many endure for the hope of a better life.

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 20:07

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