Music Within

Music Within

Year: 2007

Runtime: 94 min

Language: English

Director: Steven Sawalich

BiographyDramaComedyRomanceWarMusic

Following a bomb blast in post-war Oregon, a young soldier named Richard Pimentel loses his hearing and must adjust to a dramatically altered life. Determined to find purpose, he dedicates himself to supporting fellow veterans and disabled individuals, challenging the prejudice and pity they often face. With humor and perseverance, Richard and his companions navigate challenging times, discover their strength, and advocate for inclusivity, sharing a powerful message of hope and resilience.

Warning: spoilers below!

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Timeline & Setting – Music Within (2007)

Explore the full timeline and setting of Music Within (2007). Follow every major event in chronological order and see how the environment shapes the story, characters, and dramatic tension.

Time period

1947-1990

The story unfolds from 1947, a post-war era marked by social change and the emerging civil rights movements, culminating in 1990 with the passage of the Americans with Disabilities Act. This period saw significant advancements in disability rights and awareness, as advocates like Richard worked tirelessly to change societal perceptions and laws. It was a time of tumultuous personal struggles and collective growth for the disabled community.

Location

Portland, Oregon, Vietnam

Portland, Oregon, serves as the backdrop for Richard's journey, beginning in the aftermath of World War II and extending into the late 20th century. Known for its thriving arts scene and progressive values, Portland is where Richard develops his voice and passion for advocacy. The Vietnam War also plays a significant role in Richard's life, representing the challenges faced by veterans returning home.

🏙️ City 🌍 War

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 22:55

Main Characters – Music Within (2007)

Meet the key characters of Music Within (2007), with detailed profiles, motivations, and roles in the plot. Understand their emotional journeys and what they reveal about the film’s deeper themes.

Richard Pimentel (Ron Livingston)

Richard Pimentel is a determined and passionate individual who transforms personal hardships into a powerful advocacy career. Despite facing significant challenges including disabilities and loss, he becomes a voice for change. His ability to connect with others and inspire them towards action is a defining trait of his character.

🗣️ Advocate 🎤 Speaker 🏅 Veteran

Dell Fong

Dell Fong is Richard's Chinese-American father, whose tragic death leaves a profound impact on Richard's childhood. His early absence creates a void in Richard's life, contributing to the mental health struggles within the family. Dell's legacy influences Richard's journey toward finding purpose and community.

🧑‍👦 Familial ⚰️ Loss

Art Honeyman

Art Honeyman is Richard's close companion who lives with cerebral palsy, providing a unique perspective on the challenges faced by disabled individuals. His brilliant mind and friendship serve as a source of strength for Richard, showcasing the importance of supportive relationships in advocacy work.

🤝 Friendship 💭 Insightful

Christine

Christine is a university student with whom Richard develops a complex romantic relationship. Her open relationship and eventual engagement add layers of emotional turbulence to Richard's life. Despite their challenges, she remains a significant figure in his journey toward self-acceptance.

❤️ Complicated 😕 Emotional

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 22:55

Major Themes – Music Within (2007)

Explore the central themes of Music Within (2007), from psychological, social, and emotional dimensions to philosophical messages. Understand what the film is really saying beneath the surface.

🗣️ Advocacy

Advocacy is a central theme in Richard's life, as he tirelessly fights for the rights and recognition of individuals with disabilities. His experiences of discrimination lead him to transform personal pain into action, motivating him to speak out against injustice. Richard's journey emphasizes the power of one's voice in creating impactful change in society.

💔 Loss

Loss permeates Richard's story, shaping his character and motivations. The emotional toll of losing his father, friends, and mother weighs heavily on him, yet it propels his advocacy work. Each loss underscores the importance of community and support for marginalized individuals navigating their own grief.

🛤️ Resilience

Resilience is illustrated in Richard's ability to overcome overwhelming obstacles, such as his upbringing and experiences in war. Despite severe hearing loss and personal tragedies, he harnesses his challenges to fuel passionate advocacy. His journey demonstrates the strength of the human spirit in the face of adversity.

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 22:55

Unlock the Full Story of Music Within

Don't stop at just watching — explore Music Within 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 Music Within is all about. Plus, discover what's next after the movie.

Music Within Summary

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Music Within Summary

Music Within Timeline

Track the full timeline of Music Within with every major event arranged chronologically. Perfect for decoding non-linear storytelling, flashbacks, or parallel narratives with a clear scene-by-scene breakdown.

Music Within Timeline

More About Music Within

Visit What's After the Movie to explore more about Music Within: 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 Music Within

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