Detroit

Detroit

Year: 2017

Runtime: 143 min

Language: English

Director: Kathryn Bigelow

Echo Score: 68

Budget: $34M

DramaHistoryThrillerCrime

During the Detroit riots of 1967, a tense situation escalates at the Algiers Motel. Following reports of gunfire, police and a militia group raid the motel, leading to a night of terror for its occupants. As officers abandon protocol, they resort to violence and intimidation, demanding confessions from the frightened residents. The events culminate in the deaths of three unarmed men and leave others severely beaten, exposing a shocking display of brutality and injustice.

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Timeline & Setting – Detroit (2017)

Explore the full timeline and setting of Detroit (2017). Follow every major event in chronological order and see how the environment shapes the story, characters, and dramatic tension.

Time period

1960s

The 1960s were a period of significant social upheaval in the United States, characterized by the civil rights movement, counterculture, and widespread protests. In cities like Detroit, racial tensions boiled over, leading to riots and unrest that revealed the deep-seated divisions in American society. This decade saw a struggle for equality, not just in legislation, but also in daily life.

Location

Detroit

Detroit, known as the Motor City, is a major city in the U.S. state of Michigan. In the 1960s, it was a melting pot of cultures, but also a focal point for racial tensions and civil rights struggles. The city is particularly noted for its influential music scene, which gave birth to genres like Motown and R&B.

🏙️ City 🎶 Music

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 18:51

Main Characters – Detroit (2017)

Meet the key characters of Detroit (2017), with detailed profiles, motivations, and roles in the plot. Understand their emotional journeys and what they reveal about the film’s deeper themes.

Philip Krauss

Philip Krauss is a police officer whose actions during the Detroit riots lead to tragic consequences. He exhibits a disturbing blend of authority and recklessness, demonstrating the darker side of law enforcement under pressure. His character represents the institutional failure and brutality faced by marginalized communities.

👮 Police 💔 Tragic 🚨 Authority

Larry Reed

Larry Reed is a young R&B singer caught in the maelstrom of riots while pursuing his dreams. His character reflects the hopes and fears of African Americans during this volatile period, showcasing resilience amidst adversity. Larry's journey resonates through his passion for music and his struggle for survival.

🎤 Musician 🎶 Hope 🌍 Culture

Melvin Dismukes

Melvin Dismukes serves as a private security guard, trying to protect his community amid chaos. He embodies a sense of duty and morality, grappling with the injustices he encounters. His character highlights the complexity of individual choices in a climate of fear and violence.

🛡️ Security 💡 Morality 👖 Everyday Hero

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 18:51

Major Themes – Detroit (2017)

Explore the central themes of Detroit (2017), from psychological, social, and emotional dimensions to philosophical messages. Understand what the film is really saying beneath the surface.

⚖️ Injustice

The film illustrates the deep injustices faced by African Americans during a turbulent time in history. It reveals systemic racism within law enforcement and the legal system, highlighting how individuals can be wrongfully accused and suffer grave consequences. The injustices portrayed serve as a stark reminder of the ongoing struggle for racial equality.

🎤 Music

Music plays a vital role as both a unifying force and a backdrop to the events unfolding in Detroit. The arrival of The Dramatics emphasizes the cultural significance of music in providing hope and identity amidst chaos. The rhythm and soul of the city’s music scene contrast sharply with the tension of the surrounding violence.

🔫 Conflict

The film delves into the conflict between law enforcement and the community during the 12th Street Riot. It portrays the escalation of violence and the tragic outcomes stemming from misunderstandings and fear. The narrative captures the fragility of human lives caught in the crossfire of societal turmoil.

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 18:51

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Narrative Summary

The narrative pattern follows a linear, often procedural, recounting of a true event. The focus is on exposing a chain of actions and their consequences, typically culminating in a bleak or bittersweet ending where justice is rarely served. The emotional journey is one of witnessing helplessness and the crushing weight of an unfair system.

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Narrative Summary

Narratives typically begin with a triggering event that confines the characters. The plot then unfolds in real-time or over a compressed period, focusing on the psychological battle between the trapped and the tormentors. The structure is straightforward, emphasizing the raw, visceral experience of fear and survival over complex plotting.

Why These Movies?

These movies share a specific cinematic vibe defined by a confined setting, high and sustained intensity, and a dark, oppressive tone. The similarity lies in the feeling of being trapped and the relentless pacing that creates a continuous state of anxiety for the viewer.

Unlock the Full Story of Detroit

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

Detroit Summary

Read a complete plot summary of Detroit, 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.

Detroit Summary

Detroit Timeline

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

Detroit Timeline

Detroit Spoiler-Free Summary

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Detroit Spoiler-Free Summary

More About Detroit

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

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