Labor Day

Labor Day

Year: 2013

Runtime: 111 min

Language: English

Director: Jason Reitman

Drama

In this poignant drama, 13-year-old Henry Wheeler navigates adolescence while shouldering responsibility for his reclusive mother Adele's care. A chance encounter with enigmatic Frank Chambers, an escaped convict, sets off a chain reaction that will forever alter the course of their lives during a long and transformative Labor Day weekend.

Warning: spoilers below!

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Timeline & Setting – Labor Day (2013)
Explore the full timeline and setting of Labor Day (2013). Follow every major event in chronological order and see how the environment shapes the story, characters, and dramatic tension.

Time period

1987

Set in the late 1980s, this time period is marked by shifting social dynamics and evolving family structures. It was a time when many Americans were affected by the aftermath of the Vietnam War, highlighting the struggles faced by veterans reintegrating into society. Adele's experiences reflect a broader narrative of emotional and family challenges within this era.

Location

rural home, Canada

The movie primarily takes place in a quaint, rural home that reflects the simplicity and struggles of Adele and Henry's lives. It symbolizes both safety and confinement, representing Adele's emotional turmoil. Canada is envisioned as a hopeful escape, reflecting the characters' longing for freedom and a fresh start.

🏡 Home 🌲 Nature

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 19:17

Main Characters – Labor Day (2013)
Meet the key characters of Labor Day (2013), with detailed profiles, motivations, and roles in the plot. Understand their emotional journeys and what they reveal about the film’s deeper themes.

Adele Wheeler

Adele is a troubled single mother grappling with deep-seated emotional issues stemming from her traumatic past. Her experiences with pregnancy losses and social anxiety create a sense of isolation, yet she demonstrates resilience and warmth. As she opens up to Frank, she reveals her complexities and desires for connection, illuminating her journey toward healing.

👩‍👦 Motherhood 💔 Trauma

Frank Chambers

Frank is a Vietnam veteran whose haunted past significantly impacts his life choices. His character embodies the struggle of grappling with guilt after a tragic event. Despite his criminal background, he shows a nurturing side, imparting life skills to Henry and developing a meaningful relationship with Adele, suggesting the possibility of redemption.

🎖️ Veteran 💔 Redemption

Henry

Henry is a 13-year-old boy caught between childhood innocence and the harsh realities of his mother's life. He displays maturity beyond his years as he grapples with his family's struggles and the complexities of loyalty. His relationship with both Adele and Frank influences his understanding of love and sacrifice.

👦 Son 💭 Growth

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 19:17

Major Themes – Labor Day (2013)
Explore the central themes of Labor Day (2013), from psychological, social, and emotional dimensions to philosophical messages. Understand what the film is really saying beneath the surface.

💔 Loss

The theme of loss is profound in 'Labor Day', as both Adele and Frank deal with the traumatic impact of losing loved ones. Adele's multiple pregnancy losses and Frank's tragic past serve as the emotional backbone of the story, illustrating their struggles to heal. This shared pain brings them together, highlighting how relationships can emerge from suffering.

🛤️ Escape

The desire for escape is palpable as Adele and Frank dream of leaving their troubled pasts behind to start anew in Canada. This theme explores the longing for freedom and the hope for a better future amidst chaos. Their discussions about packing and planning reflect both their optimism and desperation.

👩‍👦 Family

The significance of family is central to the narrative, showcasing the complex dynamics between Adele, Henry, and Frank. Despite the unconventional setup, their bond strengthens as they navigate their shared challenges. The film ultimately emphasizes the enduring nature of familial love, even amidst adversity and turmoil.

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 19:17

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