Harold

Harold

Year: 2008

Runtime: 90 min

Language: English

Director: T. Sean Shannon

Comedy

In this hilarious coming-of-age tale, Harold faces a unique set of challenges as a teenager struggling with premature baldness in a new town. With the help of Cromer, a wily school janitor, Harold learns to navigate the ups and downs of high school, finding his voice and confidence along the way.

Warning: spoilers below!

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Timeline & Setting – Harold (2008)
Explore the full timeline and setting of Harold (2008). Follow every major event in chronological order and see how the environment shapes the story, characters, and dramatic tension.

Time period

The film is set in contemporary times, showcasing modern-day issues such as racial profiling, immigration, and political absurdities. The characters navigate a world filled with social stereotypes and challenges that resonate with current societal themes.

Location

Amsterdam, Netherlands, Miami, Florida, Birmingham, Alabama, Texas, Guantanamo Bay

Amsterdam is known for its artistic heritage, elaborate canal system, and narrow houses with gabled facades, which are a legacy of its 17th-century Golden Age. The bustling city serves as a cultural hub where Harold hopes to surprise his crush, Maria. Miami brings a lively atmosphere filled with diverse cultures and energetic nightlife, while Birmingham, Alabama, offers a contrasting experience steeped in rich history and social change. Guantanamo Bay, on the other hand, is starkly recognized for its military detention center, representing a more somber reality in the characters' chaotic adventure.

🏙️ City 🌊 Coast 🔒 Prison

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 21:01

Main Characters – Harold (2008)
Meet the key characters of Harold (2008), with detailed profiles, motivations, and roles in the plot. Understand their emotional journeys and what they reveal about the film’s deeper themes.

Harold Lee (John Cho)

Harold is a meticulous planner, often overwhelmed by the chaos that arises during their journey. His character embodies the struggle between order and disorder, as he seeks to impress his crush while navigating the absurdity that ensues. Despite his careful nature, Harold shows resilience and adaptability when faced with unexpected challenges.

👨‍💻 Planner 🎯 Determined 😂 Comedic

Kumar Patel (Kal Penn)

Kumar is spontaneous and carefree, often dragging Harold into ridiculous situations. His character relishes the unpredictability of life and values freedom, which leads to both hilarious and troublesome moments throughout their escapade. Kumar’s charm and humor add a lively dynamic to the duo's friendship.

🚀 Adventurous 🌿 Laid-back 🎉 Fun-loving

Ron Fox (Rob Corddry)

Ron Fox serves as the antagonist of the film, embodying bigotry and ignorance in his role as Deputy Secretary of Homeland Security. His misguided beliefs put Harold and Kumar in dangerous situations, highlighting the film's critique of stereotypes and profiling. Fox's absurd methods of political control add a layer of comedic tragedy to the story.

🚓 Authority 😠 Bigoted 😂 Absurd

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 21:01

Major Themes – Harold (2008)
Explore the central themes of Harold (2008), from psychological, social, and emotional dimensions to philosophical messages. Understand what the film is really saying beneath the surface.

🌍 Friendship

The theme of friendship is central to Harold and Kumar's journey, illustrating how their contrasting personalities complement each other. Through their misadventures, they demonstrate loyalty and support, showing that true friendship can endure any trial or tribulation. Their bond is tested but ultimately strengthens as they face absurd challenges together.

💨 Cannabis Culture

Cannabis culture plays a significant role in the storyline, serving as a source of humor and escapism for the characters. It highlights the absurdity of their situations and creates moments of carefree joy amidst chaos. The film navigates the perceptions and stereotypes surrounding marijuana use, reflecting the complexities of modern society.

🎭 Stereotypes

The film tackles themes of stereotypes and racial profiling, particularly through Kumar's experiences at the airport and the wrongful accusations they face. These elements bring a comedic, yet critical lens to serious societal issues, emphasizing the need to challenge and break down prejudices.

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 21:01