Leave No Trace

Leave No Trace

Year: 2018

Runtime: 109 min

Language: English

Director: Debra Granik

Drama

A powerful story explores the repercussions of a $2.7 billion settlement reached by the Boy Scouts of America to compensate victims of sexual abuse. The narrative delves into the complexities of accountability and the struggle for redemption as the organization and the nation grapple with the profound consequences of past actions and the devastating impact on countless lives.

Warning: spoilers below!

Haven’t seen Leave No Trace 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 – Leave No Trace (2018)

Explore the full timeline and setting of Leave No Trace (2018). Follow every major event in chronological order and see how the environment shapes the story, characters, and dramatic tension.

Time period

Location

Portland, Oregon, Washington State

The movie primarily takes place in the lush, natural landscapes of Portland, Oregon, where Will and Tom live in a secluded public park. Known for its stunning green spaces and outdoor activities, Portland provides a stark contrast to the duo's minimalist lifestyle, which emphasizes self-sufficiency and isolation. Their journey also takes them to the more remote forests of Washington State, where they seek refuge and face the harsh realities of wilderness living.

🏞️ Natural 🌲 Secluded

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 18:50

Main Characters – Leave No Trace (2018)

Meet the key characters of Leave No Trace (2018), with detailed profiles, motivations, and roles in the plot. Understand their emotional journeys and what they reveal about the film’s deeper themes.

Will

Will is a complex character shaped by his experiences as an Iraq War veteran. He is deeply affected by PTSD, which influences his protective nature towards his daughter, Tom. His struggle with conformity to societal norms becomes a pivotal aspect of the story as he tries to balance his instincts with his daughter's growing independence.

🪖 Veteran 😔 PTSD

Tom

Tom is a resilient and resourceful 13-year-old who has adapted to a life of isolation with her father. Despite her unconventional upbringing, she exhibits remarkable intelligence and emotional depth. As the story progresses, she begins to explore her own identity outside of her father's shadow, seeking connections and stability that challenge their previous way of life.

🌱 Growth 🤝 Independence

Jean Bauer

Jean Bauer is a compassionate case worker who becomes invested in Tom's well-being. She represents the societal structures that challenge Will's and Tom's way of life. Jean's insights and interventions are pivotal in highlighting the importance of a stable environment for Tom’s development, showcasing her empathy towards their situation.

❤️ Compassion 👩‍⚕️ Social Services

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 18:50

Major Themes – Leave No Trace (2018)

Explore the central themes of Leave No Trace (2018), from psychological, social, and emotional dimensions to philosophical messages. Understand what the film is really saying beneath the surface.

🌿 Survival

Survival is a central theme in 'Leave No Trace,' as Will and Tom navigate the challenges of living off the grid in the wilderness. The film explores their deep connection to nature and the skills they develop to sustain their minimalist lifestyle. Their struggle against societal norms highlights the resilience required to maintain their way of life while facing numerous obstacles.

👨‍👧 Father-Daughter Bond

The relationship between Will and Tom serves as a poignant exploration of the father-daughter bond. Their deep emotional connection is tested as Tom yearns for independence while Will grapples with his protective instincts. Their interactions reflect the complexities of their love, highlighting the balance between protection and freedom, particularly when faced with the harsh realities of life.

🏕️ Isolation vs. Community

The tension between isolation and the desire for community is a key theme in the film. Will's preference for solitude clashes with Tom's gradual acceptance of social connections after being placed in a temporary home. This theme underscores the struggle to find belonging while navigating the boundaries of one's own comfort zone and societal expectations.

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 18:50

Unlock the Full Story of Leave No Trace

Don't stop at just watching — explore Leave No Trace in full detail. From the complete plot summary and scene-by-scene timeline to character breakdowns, thematic analysis, and a deep dive into the ending — every page helps you truly understand what Leave No Trace is all about. Plus, discover what's next after the movie.

Leave No Trace Summary

Read a complete plot summary of Leave No Trace, including all key story points, character arcs, and turning points. This in-depth recap is ideal for understanding the narrative structure or reviewing what happened in the movie.

Leave No Trace Summary

Leave No Trace Timeline

Track the full timeline of Leave No Trace with every major event arranged chronologically. Perfect for decoding non-linear storytelling, flashbacks, or parallel narratives with a clear scene-by-scene breakdown.

Leave No Trace Timeline

More About Leave No Trace

Visit What's After the Movie to explore more about Leave No Trace: box office results, cast and crew info, production details, post-credit scenes, and external links — all in one place for movie fans and researchers.

More About Leave No Trace

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