Election

Election

Year: 1999

Runtime: 103 min

Language: Chinese

Director: Alexander Payne

DramaComedyRomance

When an ambitious student's relentless pursuit of class president collides with a disillusioned teacher's apathy, their clash sparks a hilarious and thought-provoking battle of wills.

Warning: spoilers below!

Haven’t seen Election yet? This summary contains major spoilers. Bookmark the page, watch the movie, and come back for the full breakdown. If you're ready, scroll on and relive the story!

Timeline & Setting – Election (1999)
Explore the full timeline and setting of Election (1999). Follow every major event in chronological order and see how the environment shapes the story, characters, and dramatic tension.

Time period

The events unfold in a contemporary setting, aligning with the socio-political climate of the late 1990s. During this time, themes of ambition, competition, and the challenges of youth resonate strongly. The societal pressures faced by the characters reflect the complexities of modern adolescence.

Location

Omaha, Nebraska, New York City, Washington D.C.

The movie primarily takes place in Omaha, Nebraska, known for its vibrant arts scene and historical landmarks. As Jim McAllister navigates the tumultuous high school environment, the narrative also explores his subsequent relocation to New York City, a bustling metropolis filled with opportunities and challenges. The conclusion in Washington D.C. signifies the political aspects of ambition and success.

🏙️ City 📚 Education

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 20:06

Main Characters – Election (1999)
Meet the key characters of Election (1999), with detailed profiles, motivations, and roles in the plot. Understand their emotional journeys and what they reveal about the film’s deeper themes.

Jim McAllister

Jim is a well-respected history teacher whose life unravels as he becomes entangled in the ambitious schemes of his students. Initially a figure of authority, his moral compromise during the election reveals his vulnerabilities and deep-seated desperation. His journey emphasizes the complexity of human ambition and the fragility of personal integrity.

👨‍🏫 Teacher 😞 Fallibility

Tracy Flick

Tracy is a fiercely ambitious student who embodies determination and self-importance. Her relentless drive to succeed often blinds her to the ethical implications of her actions, showcasing a complex character driven by external pressures and internal desires. The film highlights her path to power, contrasting her success with her social isolation.

📈 Ambitious 💔 Isolated

Paul Metzler

Paul is a charming but naïve football player whose lack of ambition is juxtaposed against Tracy's drive. Encouraged to run for president, he becomes a symbol of unintentional involvement in the political machinations of high school. His journey reflects the pressures faced by students even when they prefer a laid-back approach to life.

🏈 Athlete 🐻 Naive

Tammy Metzler

Tammy is a rebellious spirit whose candid remarks challenge the status quo of student government. Her journey of self-discovery amid her brother's presidential race showcases her desire for authenticity versus societal expectations. Despite facing repercussions for her honesty, she ultimately embraces her individuality.

🌈 Rebellious 🎤 Authentic

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 20:06

Major Themes – Election (1999)
Explore the central themes of Election (1999), from psychological, social, and emotional dimensions to philosophical messages. Understand what the film is really saying beneath the surface.

🎭 Ambition

Ambition drives the characters, particularly Tracy Flick, whose desire for success manifests in ruthless tactics. Jim McAllister's internal struggle highlights the consequences of competing ambitions, revealing how personal aspirations can lead to moral dilemmas. Ultimately, the story examines the often lonely pursuit of goals in a high-stakes environment.

⚖️ Consequences

The film explores the repercussions of actions taken in the name of ambition. Jim's decision to tamper with election results leads to his social ostracization and professional downfall. This theme underscores the idea that every choice can have significant and lasting consequences, both personally and publicly.

😔 Isolation

Despite achieving their goals, characters like Tracy find themselves isolated in their success. The film poignantly portrays the loneliness that can accompany relentless ambition, illustrating that victory can sometimes lead to unexpected social consequences and alienation.

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 20:06

Similar Movies to Election
Discover movies like Election that share similar genres, themes, and storytelling elements. Whether you’re drawn to the atmosphere, character arcs, or plot structure, these curated recommendations will help you explore more films you’ll love.