MASH

MASH

Year: 1970

Runtime: 116 min

Language: English

Director: Robert Altman

DramaComedyWar

During the Korean War, a team of irreverent surgeons at a Mobile Army Surgical Hospital, led by the quick-witted Captains Hawkeye Pierce and Trapper John McIntyre, use humor to cope with the grim realities of conflict. Facing constant pressure and a never-ending influx of casualties, they challenge military bureaucracy and find camaraderie amidst the chaos, offering a unique and darkly comedic perspective on war.

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Timeline – MASH (1970)

Trace every key event in MASH (1970) with our detailed, chronological timeline. Perfect for unpacking nonlinear stories, spotting hidden connections, and understanding how each scene builds toward the film’s climax. Whether you're revisiting or decoding for the first time, this timeline gives you the full picture.

1

Arrival of New Surgeons

In Autumn 1951, the 4077th Mobile Army Surgical Hospital welcomes two new replacement surgeons, Captain 'Hawkeye' Pierce and Captain 'Duke' Forrest. Their arrival is marked by mischief as they 'borrow' a Jeep, quickly making a name for themselves among the nursing staff.

Autumn 1951 4077th Mobile Army Surgical Hospital
2

Conflict with Major Frank Burns

Upon settling in, Hawkeye and Duke find themselves at odds with their tent mate, Major Frank Burns, whose surgical skills leave much to be desired. They pressure Lt. Colonel Henry Blake to have Burns removed from their shared living space due to his pious nature and incompetence.

4077th Mobile Army Surgical Hospital
3

Introduction of Captain 'Trapper' John McIntyre

Shortly after the surgeons' arrival, a new thoracic surgeon, Captain 'Trapper' John McIntyre, joins the camp. His mysterious entrance intrigues Hawkeye, who recalls a college football game where Trapper was his quarterback, reigniting fond memories.

4077th Mobile Army Surgical Hospital
4

Tensions Rise with Major Houlihan

Major Margaret Houlihan arrives as the chief nurse and quickly clashes with Hawkeye. During a tour, Trapper witnesses Burns unfairly blaming Private Boone for a patient’s death, leading to openly confrontational disputes between the characters.

4077th Mobile Army Surgical Hospital
5

Raucous Party for Trapper's Promotion

While Colonel Blake is away, the camp organizes a lively party to celebrate Trapper's promotion. Hawkeye and the others revel in their freedom, while Burns and Houlihan's secret encounter ends up broadcasted, leading to her infamous new nickname.

4077th Mobile Army Surgical Hospital
6

Burns is Sent Away

Upon Colonel Blake's return, Hawkeye capitalizes on the haze of the party to provoke Burns. Humiliated and now deemed unfit for duty, Burns is sent away, leaving Hawkeye, Duke, and Trapper relieved and ready for new challenges.

4077th Mobile Army Surgical Hospital
7

The 'Last Supper' for Waldowski

Father Mulcahy learns of Waldowski's love life crisis and the group humorously stages a 'Last Supper' to give him the illusion of a terminal condition. This comical scheme serves to boost Waldowski's confidence, showcasing the camaraderie in the camp.

4077th Mobile Army Surgical Hospital
8

Trapper and Hawkeye's Pranks on Hot Lips

Continuing their trend of antics, Hawkeye and Duke concoct a prank involving Major Houlihan that ends with her being exposed in the shower tent. This event prompts her to demand order from Colonel Blake amid a swirl of chaos.

4077th Mobile Army Surgical Hospital
9

Ho-Jon's Draft and Its Consequences

The narrative takes a serious turn when Ho-Jon, a local boy working at the camp, gets drafted into the South Korean army. Hawkeye's attempts to protect him lead to a heartbreaking outcome when Ho-Jon is wounded in action after surgery.

4077th Mobile Army Surgical Hospital
10

Urgent Surgery Trip to Japan

Hawkeye and Trapper are assigned to an urgent surgery for a U.S. Congressman's son in Japan. Their time there is filled with humor and bonding experiences, but complications soon remind them of the gravity of their responsibilities.

Japan
11

New Relationships Blossom

Upon returning from their Japan trip, the atmosphere at the 4077th has shifted as new relationships have developed. Duke and Major Houlihan publicly express their budding romance, adding more layers to the camp dynamics.

4077th Mobile Army Surgical Hospital
12

Football Game Against Tough Opponents

With the arrival of General Hammond, a football game is organized between the 4077th and a formidable rival team. The stakes are high due to a hefty bet, motivating Hawkeye and his friends to strategize fiercely in hopes of victory.

4077th Mobile Army Surgical Hospital
13

Victory and Celebration

The football match culminates in a nail-biting finish where Hawkeye’s team secures a last-minute victory. The ensuing celebration serves as a joyful reminder of friendship and camaraderie, breathing life into the harsh realities of war.

4077th Mobile Army Surgical Hospital
14

Farewell to Friends and the Camp

As discharge orders are finally issued, Hawkeye prepares to part ways with his friends at the camp. In a poignant farewell, Duke and Hot Lips share a heavy moment, while Trapper stays behind, leaving Hawkeye and Duke to drive off together in their original Jeep.

4077th Mobile Army Surgical Hospital
15

End of the Journey

As they drive away, the sounds of the camp and the PA system fade into the distance, marking the end of an unforgettable chapter. The bittersweet nature of their experiences lingers, leaving each character changed by the journey they shared.

Last Updated: November 15, 2024 at 16:29

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MASH Summary

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MASH Summary

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Characters, Settings & Themes in MASH

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