Shoot the Moon

Shoot the Moon

Year: 1982

Runtime: 124 min

Language: English

Director: Alan Parker

Drama

As Marcy's world teeters on collapse, a glimmer of hope emerges in the form of a national game show, where a life-changing windfall awaits. But as she navigates the high-stakes competition, her bond with daughter Alice frays, forcing Marcy to confront the true cost of chasing fortune and the value of family ties.

Warning: spoilers below!

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Timeline & Setting – Shoot the Moon (1982)
Explore the full timeline and setting of Shoot the Moon (1982). Follow every major event in chronological order and see how the environment shapes the story, characters, and dramatic tension.

Time period

The movie does not specify a distinct time period but captures the emotional complexities of familial relationships in contemporary society. Themes of divorce, infidelity, and the challenges of parenthood are central to the narrative, reflecting issues that resonate with audiences regardless of era.

Location

Marin County, California, Beachside Retreat

The movie is set in the sun-drenched valleys of Marin County, California, known for its picturesque landscapes and affluent suburban lifestyle. The main setting is a meticulously restored farmhouse, representing the family's history and memories. The contrast between the farmhouse and the beachside retreat symbolizes the emotional distance growing within the family.

🏠 Home 🌊 Beach

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 23:15

Main Characters – Shoot the Moon (1982)
Meet the key characters of Shoot the Moon (1982), with detailed profiles, motivations, and roles in the plot. Understand their emotional journeys and what they reveal about the film’s deeper themes.

George Dunlap (George Murdock)

George is a complex character, torn between his family obligations and his desires. His initial charm is tainted by selfishness and an inability to confront his issues openly. As his circumstances unravel, George's erratic behavior leads to violence and emotion-fueled decisions that alienate him from his family.

📝 Writer 💔 Troubled

Faith (Diane Keaton)

Faith epitomizes the struggles of a devoted wife facing betrayal. Torn between her love for George and the painful reality of his infidelity, she seeks solace and companionship outside her marriage. Her journey portrays a woman grappling with loss, sorrow, and the quest for independence amidst chaos.

💔 Betrayed 🌼 Resilient

Sherry (Tracey Gold)

As the eldest daughter, Sherry is acutely aware of the tensions surrounding her parents’ marriage. Her experience of overhearing George's infidelity pushes her into a role of protector for her sisters. Her character illustrates the impact of adult problems on children, showcasing her internal struggles amid familial chaos.

👧 Eldest Daughter ❔ Conflicted

Frank Henderson (Albert Finney)

Frank serves as a secondary support system for Faith, embodying her search for emotional solace. Despite his intentions, Frank's involvement complicates both his life and Faith's, revealing how new relationships can ripple through existing familial ties. His character represents a blend of support and conflict in the wake of divorce.

👷 Contractor 🤝 Supportive

Molly (Tina Yothers)

Molly is one of George and Faith's daughters, who navigates the chaos of her family with innocence. Displaying maturity beyond her years, she plays a pivotal role in managing her siblings during moments of conflict. Her character’s empathetic nature highlights the sensitivities of children caught in adult conflicts.

👧 Youngest Daughter 💞 Empathetic

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 23:15

Major Themes – Shoot the Moon (1982)
Explore the central themes of Shoot the Moon (1982), from psychological, social, and emotional dimensions to philosophical messages. Understand what the film is really saying beneath the surface.

💔 Divorce

The movie explores the painful and often chaotic process of divorce, particularly how it affects the children involved. George and Faith’s tumultuous relationship and their struggles for joint custody highlight the emotional upheaval that accompanies marital breakdown. The aftermath of their choices reverberates through their family, showcasing the lasting impact of separation.

👩‍👧‍👧 Family Dynamics

Family dynamics play a crucial role in the narrative, illustrating the struggles between parents and children amid the fallout of infidelity and separation. The siblings' interactions reveal their attempts to navigate their father's erratic behavior and their mother's sorrow. This theme highlights the resilience and vulnerabilities of family bonds during turbulent times.

🎭 Betrayal

Betrayal is a pervasive theme that manifests through George's infidelity and the subsequent emotional turmoil it creates. Faith's growing suspicions and the complexities of her relationship with Frank complicate the healing process. The film captures the notion that betrayal can fracture not just romantic ties but familial relationships as well.

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 23:15

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