Last Flag Flying

Last Flag Flying

Year: 2017

Runtime: 125 min

Language: English

Director: Richard Linklater

DramaComedyWar

Following the loss of his Marine son in Iraq, Vietnam War veteran Larry "Doc" Shepherd grapples with grief and seeks a way to honor his memory. He journeys with former comrades Sal Nealon and Reverend Richard Mueller, traveling from Washington, D.C. to their hometown in rural New England. Along the way, they reflect on their shared past, the complexities of faith, and the enduring impact of war, ultimately finding solace and a renewed sense of purpose through their bond.

Warning: spoilers below!

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Timeline & Setting – Last Flag Flying (2017)

Explore the full timeline and setting of Last Flag Flying (2017). Follow every major event in chronological order and see how the environment shapes the story, characters, and dramatic tension.

Time period

2003

The film is set in 2003, a year marked by the U.S. involvement in Iraq, which brings forth themes of loss and sacrifice. This period reflects a time of heightened awareness around military actions and their human costs, impacting the lives of veterans and their families. The events surrounding the characters showcase the struggles and realities faced by returning soldiers.

Location

Dover Air Force Base, Portsmouth, Boston

Dover Air Force Base is a significant military installation known for its role in the transportation of military personnel and equipment. Portsmouth is depicted as a coastal city with a rich history, serving as the backdrop for the emotional journey of the characters. Boston serves as a point of connection and reflection as they visit a key character, Mrs. Hightower, demonstrating the importance of city ties in the veterans' lives.

🏛️ Military 🏙️ City 🌍 U.S.

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 21:41

Main Characters – Last Flag Flying (2017)

Meet the key characters of Last Flag Flying (2017), with detailed profiles, motivations, and roles in the plot. Understand their emotional journeys and what they reveal about the film’s deeper themes.

Larry 'Doc' Shepherd

Doc is a grieving father grappling with the profound loss of his son, which drives his quest to honor Larry Jr.'s memory. His character displays vulnerability and strength, navigating complex emotions tied to both his son's death and his time in Vietnam. Through his journey, he embodies the struggle of veterans to find peace amidst grief.

👨‍👦 Fatherhood 💔 Grief 🎖️ Veteran

Sal Nealon

Sal is a charismatic but reckless veteran with a complicated past. His easygoing nature provides moments of levity, but he also embodies the burdens of guilt and regret surrounding his wartime experiences. Sal's relationship with Doc illuminates the complexity of friendships forged in conflict.

🎉 Charisma ⚔️ Guilt 👥 Friendship

Reverend Richard Mueller

Mueller is a thoughtful character who wrestles with his past decisions and the legacy of his military service. Initially hesitant to join Doc on the journey, his character arc moves towards embracing his friend’s pain as he confronts his own memories. Mueller represents the search for redemption and meaning after service.

🙏 Spirituality 🔍 Redemption 🤔 Reflection

Mrs. Hightower

Mrs. Hightower is a poignant figure representing the mothers of fallen soldiers. Her character reflects the themes of misinformation and loss, as she is misled about her son's experiences. In her interactions with the men, she embodies resilience and the struggle for truth.

👩‍👦 Maternal 💪 Resilience 💔 Loss

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 21:41

Major Themes – Last Flag Flying (2017)

Explore the central themes of Last Flag Flying (2017), 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 central to the film, as Doc grapples with the death of his only son, Larry Jr. This loss not only affects him but also resonates deeply with his fellow veterans, who reflect on their pasts and the lives impacted by war. As they navigate their grief, the narrative highlights the challenges of moving forward while honoring those who have fallen.

🤝 Friendship

The journey undertaken by Doc, Sal, and Mueller underscores the theme of friendship, showing how bonds formed during war can shape lives long after service. Their road trip serves as a mechanism for healing, where they confront past indiscretions and support each other through challenges. Friendship serves as a crucial lifeline, providing solace in times of despair.

⚖️ Truth

Truth, particularly in relation to narratives surrounding military loss, emerges as a significant theme. The revelation regarding Larry Jr.'s death confronts the heroic myths often surrounding soldiers. As the characters learn to face uncomfortable truths, they seek authenticity in a world filled with loss and deception.

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 21:41

Unlock the Full Story of Last Flag Flying

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Last Flag Flying Summary

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Last Flag Flying Summary

Last Flag Flying Timeline

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Last Flag Flying Timeline

More About Last Flag Flying

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More About Last Flag Flying

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