Light of Day

Light of Day

Year: 1987

Runtime: 107 min

Language: English

Director: Paul Schrader

DramaMusic

In the gritty Cleveland suburbs, sibling rebels Patty and Joe Rasnick lead a double life - rocking out as The Barbusters by day, and navigating family drama by night. As they confront their differences and face their mother's mortality, this musical drama delves into the complexities of love, loyalty, and finding one's own light in the darkness.

Warning: spoilers below!

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Timeline & Setting – Light of Day (1987)
Explore the full timeline and setting of Light of Day (1987). Follow every major event in chronological order and see how the environment shapes the story, characters, and dramatic tension.

Time period

The movie's events unfold in contemporary times, reflecting the struggles of musicians trying to succeed in an often unforgiving industry. This period captures the hardships of balancing family responsibilities with artistic ambitions while tackling societal issues like economic instability and health crises.

Location

Cleveland, Ohio

Cleveland, Ohio, is known for its rich musical history and vibrant arts scene. As the backdrop for The Barbusters, it represents a city full of dreams and struggles, where artists strive to make their mark against the odds. The city provides a bustling environment that influences the band's journey and aspirations.

🏙️ City 🎶 Music Scene

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 23:09

Main Characters – Light of Day (1987)
Meet the key characters of Light of Day (1987), with detailed profiles, motivations, and roles in the plot. Understand their emotional journeys and what they reveal about the film’s deeper themes.

Patti (Joan Jett)

Patti is a passionate musician and single mother striving to balance her dreams with the responsibilities of parenthood. Her character showcases resilience, grappling with both personal ambitions and family obligations. Despite her reckless decisions, she ultimately reveals a deep desire to reconnect with her family and find her place in the music scene.

🎤 Musician 👩‍👦 Mother 💪 Resilient

Joe (Michael McKean)

Joe embodies the protective older brother, working a stable job to support his sister and nephew. His character is marked by loyalty and concern, as he navigates the challenges of maintaining family stability while managing his own frustrations. Through moments of tension and reconciliation, Joe strives to keep his family grounded amidst chaos.

👨‍👦 Caregiver 🏭 Worker 🤝 Supportive

Benji

Benji serves as an innocent lens through which the turmoil of Patti and Joe's lives is viewed. Though he is a silent witness to the unfolding events, his presence highlights the stakes of the siblings' choices. His character embodies the hope for a better future, as both adults strive to create stability for him amidst their chaos.

👶 Child 🌟 Hopeful

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 23:09

Major Themes – Light of Day (1987)
Explore the central themes of Light of Day (1987), from psychological, social, and emotional dimensions to philosophical messages. Understand what the film is really saying beneath the surface.

🎸 Music & Ambition

Music permeates the lives of the characters, serving as both a passion and a refuge from their struggles. The ambition to achieve success brings both growth and conflict, as Patti and Joe navigate the demanding world of rock music. It ultimately emphasizes the importance of following one's dreams while dealing with personal challenges.

👨‍👩‍👦 Family Bonds

The deep connection between siblings Patti and Joe is at the heart of the story, showcasing the complexities of familial relationships. As they face financial struggles and personal crises, their loyalty and love are put to the test, highlighting the traditional struggles within a family when unexpected challenges arise.

💔 Loss & Grief

The theme of loss is poignantly portrayed through Jeanette's illness and eventual death, profoundly impacting both Patti and Joe. Their shared grief serves to highlight the fragility of life and the importance of cherishing time spent with loved ones. It adds emotional depth and weight to their journey as they strive for healing and reconciliation.

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 23:09

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