Protocol

Protocol

Year: 1984

Runtime: 96 min

Language: English

Director: Herbert Ross

Comedy

In this hilarious romp, a bumbling nightclub waitress accidentally foils an assassination attempt and becomes the State Department's unlikely new asset. As she charms her way through diplomatic protocol, Sunny Ann Davis captures the hearts of officials and rebels alike, sparking a surprise insurrection in Othar that threatens to upend international politics.

Warning: spoilers below!

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Timeline & Setting – Protocol (1984)
Explore the full timeline and setting of Protocol (1984). Follow every major event in chronological order and see how the environment shapes the story, characters, and dramatic tension.

Time period

Modern Day

The story takes place in contemporary times, reflecting the dynamics of modern American politics and international relations. The events highlight the complexities of diplomatic exchanges and the role of individuals in the political arena. The modern setting also emphasizes issues relevant to society today, such as media influence and public perception.

Location

Washington, D.C., El Othar, Diamond Junction, Oregon

Washington, D.C. is the vibrant heart of American politics, known for its iconic monuments and as a hub for diplomatic activity. El Othar, a small but strategic Middle Eastern country, serves as a focal point for international relations, particularly with the United States. Diamond Junction, Oregon is a quaint hometown that represents Sunny's roots and her eventual return to local politics.

🏛️ Government 🌍 Middle East 🏡 Hometown

Last Updated: January 14, 2025 at 22:08

Main Characters – Protocol (1984)
Meet the key characters of Protocol (1984), with detailed profiles, motivations, and roles in the plot. Understand their emotional journeys and what they reveal about the film’s deeper themes.

Sunny Ann Davis (Goldie Hawn)

Sunny is portrayed as a bubbly yet naive cocktail waitress who unintentionally becomes a heroine. Her charm, intelligence, and sense of humor shine through her seemingly ditzy exterior. As the plot unfolds, Sunny demonstrates resilience, ultimately navigating complex political landscapes and embracing her role in public life.

👩‍🎤 Protagonist 🌈 Quirky 🦸‍♀️ Heroine

Michael Ransome (Chris Sarandon)

Michael is a sophisticated State Department official who provides guidance and support to Sunny during her press conferences. His character transitions from a professional ally to a romantic partner, showcasing his commitment to Sunny and his discontent with political manipulations. He serves as a moral compass, pushing back against the darker sides of government actions.

🤵 Supportive 💔 Romantic Interest 💼 Political

Emir (Richard Romanus)

The Emir represents the political intrigue and complexity of international diplomacy. His desire to marry Sunny as part of a trade agreement illustrates the intersection of personal lives with national interests. Through his character, the film explores themes of power, tradition, and the consequences of manipulation.

👑 Authority 🌍 Diplomatic 📜 Traditional

Ambassador St. John (Gail Strickland)

Ambassador St. John is a shrewd, politically savvy character who sees the potential in leveraging Sunny's fame for political dealings. Her perspective reveals the ethical ambiguities often at play in government decisions. She is a strong female presence, embodying the complexities of leadership and manipulation.

👩‍⚖️ Ambitious 🎭 Strategic 🔍 Influential

Last Updated: January 14, 2025 at 22:08

Major Themes – Protocol (1984)
Explore the central themes of Protocol (1984), from psychological, social, and emotional dimensions to philosophical messages. Understand what the film is really saying beneath the surface.

🌟 Heroism

The theme of heroism is central to Sunny's journey, as her drastic actions inadvertently prevent an assassination and thrust her into the public eye. Her naive yet brave response to life-threatening situations showcases how ordinary people can become heroes in unexpected ways. This theme explores bravery mixed with absurdity, reflecting on how societal views of heroism can evolve.

💼 Political Manipulation

Throughout the film, characters manipulate situations for political gain, highlighting themes of power and sacrifice. Sunny becomes an unwilling pawn in a diplomatic scheme, raising questions about ethics and individual consent. This theme illustrates the complexities of political gamesmanship and the personal impact on those involved.

❤️ Love and Relationships

Sunny's romantic entanglements and friendships are set against a backdrop of personal struggles and professional turmoil. Her evolving relationships, particularly with Michael Ransome, showcase the interplay between personal ambition and emotional connection. This theme emphasizes how love can provide support amidst chaos, ultimately leading to personal growth.

Last Updated: January 14, 2025 at 22:08

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