Latter Days (2004) Characters, Setting & Themes Explained

The film takes place primarily in Los Angeles, with key scenes set in Pocatello, Idaho, and Salt Lake City. Los Angeles represents a vibrant, diverse urban environment that contrasts sharply with the quieter, more conservative atmosphere of Pocatello, where Aaron originates. Salt Lake City serves as a symbolic touchpoint representing both refuge and conflict due to its significance in Mormon culture.

• los angeles
• pocatello
• idaho
• salt lake city
• setting
• locations

The movie is set in contemporary times, reflecting societal attitudes during the late 20th to early 21st century. It captures the period when acceptance of LGBTQ+ identities was growing, but discrimination remained prevalent, especially within religious communities.

• contemporary
• time period
• era
• modern
• 2000s

The film explores three primary themes: love in all its forms, which serves as a transformative force leading to self-discovery; rejection, which causes deep emotional turmoil when it comes from faith communities and family; and identity, as both main characters navigate their true selves amid societal and religious pressures.

• themes
• love
• rejection
• identity
• meaning

Identity is central to the narrative, particularly as Aaron grapples with reconciling his sexual identity with his religious upbringing. Christian similarly undergoes a journey toward genuine connection rather than superficial living. The film explores how personal identity develops in relation to both love and faith, showing the struggle of remaining true to oneself in environments that demand conformity.

• identity
• self-acceptance
• sexuality
• faith
• personal journey

The film portrays love as a transformative power capable of leading to self-discovery and healing. It shows both romantic and platonic love as essential forces that challenge characters to grow. The relationship between Christian and Aaron demonstrates how love can help individuals accept their true selves, even when faced with external opposition.

• love
• romance
• transformation
• self-discovery

The film depicts the tension between individual sexual identity and religious doctrine. Aaron's community represents a conservative religious perspective that ultimately attempts to change him through conversion therapy, leading to painful rejection. The story explores the conflict between faith community expectations and personal truth, showing both the support and harm that religious environments can provide.

• mormon
• faith
• religion
• church
• conversion therapy

Aaron Davis is a Mormon missionary from Pocatello, Idaho, who is sent to Los Angeles for his mission work. He is a committed yet conflicted young man whose journey of self-discovery forms the heart of the film, as he grapples with realizing his sexual identity while remaining devoted to his faith and community.

• aaron davis
• mormon missionary
• main character
• protagonist

Christian Markelli is a charismatic and playful waiter who becomes emotionally invested in a relationship with Aaron. Initially motivated by a wager, Christian undergoes significant personal growth, developing genuine depth and compassion. His openness and willingness to love authentically make him a catalyst for Aaron's journey toward self-acceptance.

• christian markelli
• love interest
• romantic lead
• character

Lila Montagne is a retired actress who owns the restaurant Lila's in Los Angeles. She serves as a nurturing, wise figure who offers empathy and a safe space for Christian and Aaron to explore their relationship. Her character represents acceptance and understanding, providing guidance amid the characters' emotional struggles.

• lila montagne
• restaurant owner
• mentor figure
• supporting character

Paul Ryder is Aaron's fellow Mormon missionary who represents conventional religious perspectives. He serves as a foil to Christian, holding strong convictions about faith and sexuality that create significant conflict within the narrative. His character highlights the struggles faced by those within rigid belief systems.

• paul ryder
• missionary
• antagonist
• religious character

The film maintains a predominantly hopeful tone despite addressing heavy themes like religious rejection and conversion therapy. While the subject matter includes difficult moments such as a suicide attempt and family rejection, the central love story and characters' personal growth provide an optimistic core. The ending is happy and emotionally satisfying, reinforcing the film's message about love and acceptance.

• tone
• mood
• emotional
• hopeful
• ending
• resolution