Hounddog

Hounddog

Year: 2008

Runtime: 102 min

Language: English

Director: Deborah Kampmeier

DramaMusic

In the heart of Alabama, 12-year-old Lewellen finds solace in Elvis Presley's tunes as she navigates a troubled childhood with her grandmother. When her father's attempts to connect through music falter, Lewellen faces an unfathomable tragedy. As she struggles to heal, the power of Elvis' music and the support of friend Charles become her lifeline in a journey towards resilience and hope.

Warning: spoilers below!

Haven’t seen Hounddog 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 – Hounddog (2008)
Explore the full timeline and setting of Hounddog (2008). Follow every major event in chronological order and see how the environment shapes the story, characters, and dramatic tension.

Time period

1950s

The 1950s was a decade marked by post-war recovery and social change in America. This era saw the rise of rock 'n' roll, with figures like Elvis Presley shaping popular culture. Additionally, it was a time when traditional family structures were often challenged, revealing conflicts within personal relationships, as depicted in Lewellen's tumultuous life.

Location

Rural Alabama

Rural Alabama in the 1950s is characterized by sprawling fields and a close-knit community that often faces economic challenges. The simplicity of life is contrasted by underlying familial issues and social complexities. It serves as a backdrop for Lewellen's bittersweet childhood, where poverty and longing for connection permeate everyday experiences.

🌾 Countryside 🏡 Home

Last Updated: May 13, 2025 at 17:29

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

Lewellen

Lewellen is a nine-year-old girl grappling with profound loss and hardship. She exhibits resilience and a yearning for connection, navigating her bleak reality with the hope of a brighter future. Her innocence is challenged as she encounters betrayal and trauma, yet she strives to reclaim her sense of self.

👧 Young Girl 💪 Resilience

Grammie

Grammie is Lewellen's protective grandmother, embodying tradition and familial loyalty. While she cares for Lewellen, her strict demeanor reflects the struggles of holding the family together amid difficult times. Her disapproval of Lewellen's father adds tension to their relationship.

👵 Grandmother 🔒 Tradition

Daddy

Lewellen's father is a complex character whose emotional struggles manifest in abusive behavior. His relationship with Lewellen is strained, marked by neglect and anger. After his accident, he becomes a shadow of his former self, raising questions about redemption and familial obligation.

👨‍👧 Father ⚡ Conflict

Last Updated: May 13, 2025 at 17:29

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

💔 Trauma

The theme of trauma is heavily present in Lewellen's life, from the loss of her mother to the abusive events she faces. Her experiences highlight the profound impact of violence and betrayal on a young child’s innocence. The journey towards healing and self-discovery reflects resilience in the face of overwhelming adversity.

🎶 Music

Music represents both an escape and a form of expression for Lewellen. The influence of Elvis Presley and his song 'Hound Dog' becomes a symbol of hope and joy amid her struggles. Through music, she finds solace and a way to connect with her emotions, reinforcing its powerful role in personal healing.

🌩️ Nature's Fury

Nature plays a critical role in the narrative, symbolizing both danger and change. The thunderstorm and the lightning strike signify upheaval in Lewellen's life, mirroring the tempestuous emotions she experiences. The interactions with animals, like the puppy she finds, juxtapose the threats of nature with the potential for companionship and love.

Last Updated: May 13, 2025 at 17:29

Similar Movies to Hounddog
Discover movies like Hounddog 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.