Short Term 12

Short Term 12

Year: 2013

Runtime: 96 min

Language: English

Director: Destin Cretton

Drama

A supervisor at a short-term care facility for at-risk teenagers confronts her own past while guiding the young people in her care. When a new arrival reveals a heartbreaking situation, the supervisor forms a surprising connection with the vulnerable newcomer. The film explores themes of trauma, empathy, and the challenges faced by adolescents struggling with difficult circumstances, highlighting the importance of human connection and understanding.

Warning: spoilers below!

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Timeline & Setting – Short Term 12 (2013)

Explore the full timeline and setting of Short Term 12 (2013). Follow every major event in chronological order and see how the environment shapes the story, characters, and dramatic tension.

Time period

The story unfolds in contemporary times, reflecting modern societal challenges surrounding mental health and the complexities of personal relationships. It evokes themes relevant to today's youth, illustrating the ongoing struggles faced by young people in similar environments.

Location

Short Term 12

Short Term 12 is a group home dedicated to assisting troubled teenagers. This facility is known for its supportive environment, helping residents navigate challenges as they prepare to transition into adulthood. It acts as a crucial refuge for many young individuals dealing with emotional and psychological issues.

🏠 Group Home

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 19:48

Main Characters – Short Term 12 (2013)

Meet the key characters of Short Term 12 (2013), with detailed profiles, motivations, and roles in the plot. Understand their emotional journeys and what they reveal about the film’s deeper themes.

Grace

Grace is a passionate and dedicated supervisor at Short Term 12 who grapples with her own emotional challenges while helping the teenagers in her care. As she navigates her unexpected pregnancy and the re-emergence of her father, her character shows immense depth, embodying strength and vulnerability. Her journey towards healing is central to the film’s narrative.

👩‍🏫 Supervisor 💔 Emotional 🌱 Resilient

Mason

Mason is Grace’s supportive boyfriend and colleague, who proposes marriage but struggles to connect with Grace emotionally. His character embodies the challenge of understanding and supporting someone undergoing a personal crisis, revealing the strains that heavy emotional burdens can put on relationships.

❤️ Supportive 🤝 Partner 📉 Challenged

Jayden

Jayden is a troubled newcomer at the group home whose history of self-harm and familial abuse brings her pain to light. A complex character, she initially isolates herself but slowly builds a connection with Grace. Jayden's journey towards confronting her trauma showcases her strength and determination.

🧑‍🎨 Creative 👩‍🦰 Troubled 💪 Strong

Marcus

Marcus is a teenager on the brink of leaving Short Term 12 who struggles with anxiety about his future. His character represents the uncertainty and fear faced by many young people in group homes, and his tragic suicide attempt underscores the film’s exploration of mental health issues among adolescents.

👦 Resident 😢 Struggler ⚠️ Vulnerable

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 19:48

Major Themes – Short Term 12 (2013)

Explore the central themes of Short Term 12 (2013), from psychological, social, and emotional dimensions to philosophical messages. Understand what the film is really saying beneath the surface.

💔 Emotional Struggles

The film explores deep emotional struggles experienced by both the staff and residents of Short Term 12. Grace's difficulties in expressing her emotions parallel the trauma faced by the teenagers, highlighting the importance of communication and support. The theme of emotional turmoil resonates throughout their interactions, ultimately leading to healing and transformation.

🔗 Trauma and Healing

Another significant theme is the impact of trauma on individuals and the journey toward healing. Grace's backstory of abuse and Jayden's confrontation with her father's violence depict the harsh realities of trauma. As the characters support each other, they demonstrate that confronting one's past is crucial to moving forward.

🕊️ Hope and New Beginnings

Amidst the challenges, the film emphasizes hope and the possibility of new beginnings. Grace's journey toward personal growth and her evolving relationship with Mason reflect the resilience of the human spirit. The film concludes on a hopeful note, suggesting that healing and reconciliation are attainable.

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 19:48

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Narrative Summary

The plot revolves around a central location that serves as a temporary refuge. New arrivals disrupt the equilibrium, forcing existing group dynamics to change. Collective and individual traumas are revealed, and the group's support becomes essential for survival and growth, even if their time together is limited.

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This thread groups movies that balance heavy emotional themes with a strong sense of hope derived from human connection. They share a steady pace for character development, a raw and intimate mood, and a bittersweet conclusion that acknowledges pain while celebrating hard-won progress.

Unlock the Full Story of Short Term 12

Don't stop at just watching — explore Short Term 12 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 Short Term 12 is all about. Plus, discover what's next after the movie.

Short Term 12 Summary

Read a complete plot summary of Short Term 12, including all key story points, character arcs, and turning points. This in-depth recap is ideal for understanding the narrative structure or reviewing what happened in the movie.

Short Term 12 Summary

Short Term 12 Timeline

Track the full timeline of Short Term 12 with every major event arranged chronologically. Perfect for decoding non-linear storytelling, flashbacks, or parallel narratives with a clear scene-by-scene breakdown.

Short Term 12 Timeline

Short Term 12 Spoiler-Free Summary

Get a quick, spoiler-free overview of Short Term 12 that covers the main plot points and key details without revealing any major twists or spoilers. Perfect for those who want to know what to expect before diving in.

Short Term 12 Spoiler-Free Summary

More About Short Term 12

Visit What's After the Movie to explore more about Short Term 12: 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 Short Term 12

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