Dogfight

Dogfight

Year: 1991

Runtime: 94 min

Language: English

Director: Nancy Savoca

DramaComedyRomance

In 1963 San Francisco, Marine Eddie Birdlace and his fellow soldiers celebrate their upcoming deployment to Vietnam with a night out. They participate in a cruel competition known as a "dogfight," where Marines wager on bringing the least desirable dates. However, Eddie unexpectedly falls for Rose, a quiet and unassuming woman who possesses a hidden charm and grace. As they spend the evening together, they experience a surprising and tender romance, challenging Eddie's perceptions and leaving a lasting impact on them both.

Warning: spoilers below!

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Timeline & Setting – Dogfight (1991)

Explore the full timeline and setting of Dogfight (1991). Follow every major event in chronological order and see how the environment shapes the story, characters, and dramatic tension.

Time period

November 1963 - 1967

Set against the backdrop of the early 1960s, the film captures a significant social period marked by the Vietnam War and the evolving counterculture in America. The ramifications of the war and significant events like Kennedy's assassination serve as a haunting reminder of the turbulent times that shape the characters' lives, particularly in the wake of their military service.

Location

San Francisco, Haight-Ashbury, Okinawa, Chu Lai, Vietnam

The story primarily takes place in San Francisco, including the iconic Haight-Ashbury district, known for its counterculture movement in the 1960s. This vibrant area symbolizes the freedom and artistic expression of the era. The narrative also ventures to Okinawa and Chu Lai, Vietnam, highlighting the stark contrast between the chaos of war and the hopeful dreams of youth.

🏙️ City 🌄 Beach 🌏 Warzone

Last Updated: January 14, 2025 at 22:08

Main Characters – Dogfight (1991)

Meet the key characters of Dogfight (1991), with detailed profiles, motivations, and roles in the plot. Understand their emotional journeys and what they reveal about the film’s deeper themes.

Birdlace (River Phoenix)

Birdlace is a complex character grappling with the duality of youthful exuberance and the haunting realities of war. Initially embodying the macho facade of a soldier, he evolves through his relationship with Rose, revealing a more sensitive and thoughtful side. His journey reflects the struggle of reconciling societal expectations with personal values.

👨‍✈️ Soldier 💔 Brooding 🌹 Romantic

Rose Jr. (Lili Taylor)

Rose Jr. is a passionate and strong-willed woman who dreams of becoming a musician. Her character juxtaposes innocence with the harsh realities of societal norms as she enters the Dogfight. Her growth throughout the film reflects resilience and the pursuit of authenticity, particularly through her interactions with Birdlace.

🎸 Musician 🌼 Hopeful 💪 Strong-willed

Last Updated: January 14, 2025 at 22:08

Major Themes – Dogfight (1991)

Explore the central themes of Dogfight (1991), from psychological, social, and emotional dimensions to philosophical messages. Understand what the film is really saying beneath the surface.

💔 Love & Loss

The film poignantly explores themes of love and loss, particularly through the evolving relationship between Birdlace and Rose. Their connection is tested by the harsh realities of war and societal expectations, ultimately revealing a deep bond forged in vulnerability and understanding. The juxtaposition of youthful innocence with the brutality of experience adds depth to their love story.

💪 Masculinity

The theme of masculinity is critically examined through the characters' bravado and the tradition of the Dogfight. Birdlace and his friends navigate societal pressures of what it means to be a man, grappling with their identities as soldiers and their actions towards women. The film highlights the conflict between macho posturing and genuine emotional connection.

🎶 Music & Activism

Music serves as a powerful backdrop to the narrative, reflecting the cultural changes of the 1960s. Through folk songs and the characters' intentions to express their voices, the film emphasizes the role of music in activism and personal expression. This theme reinforces the hope that transcends the characters' struggles against the backdrop of a conflicted society.

Last Updated: January 14, 2025 at 22:08

Unlock the Full Story of Dogfight

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

Dogfight Summary

Read a complete plot summary of Dogfight, 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.

Dogfight Summary

Dogfight Timeline

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

Dogfight Timeline

More About Dogfight

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

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