State and Main

State and Main

Year: 2000

Runtime: 105 min

Language: English

Director: David Mamet

DramaComedy

A film crew arrives in a quaint New England town to shoot a big-budget movie, disrupting the peaceful community and bringing unexpected chaos. As the cameras prepare to roll, clashes erupt between the crew and locals, fueled by ego, ambition, and financial temptations. Amidst the escalating tensions and power struggles, unexpected romances develop, revealing the complexities of human relationships against the backdrop of a charming, small-town setting.

Warning: spoilers below!

Haven’t seen State and Main yet? This summary contains major spoilers. Bookmark the page, watch the movie, and come back for the full breakdown. If you're ready, scroll on and relive the story!

Timeline & Setting – State and Main (2000)

Explore the full timeline and setting of State and Main (2000). Follow every major event in chronological order and see how the environment shapes the story, characters, and dramatic tension.

Time period

The film does not specify a distinct time period, allowing for a timeless feel that emphasizes the universal themes of creative struggle and interpersonal conflict. This ambiguity helps to focus on the characters' cinematic journey rather than the constraints of a particular era.

Location

Waterford, Vermont

Waterford is a quaint town in Vermont that serves as a picturesque backdrop for the film's chaotic production. Known for its charming community and scenic landscapes, it becomes a canvas for the disruptions caused by the film crew. The town's serene setting contrasts with the turmoil that unfolds as locals react to the film's presence.

🏞️ Town 🎥 Film Industry

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 21:44

Main Characters – State and Main (2000)

Meet the key characters of State and Main (2000), with detailed profiles, motivations, and roles in the plot. Understand their emotional journeys and what they reveal about the film’s deeper themes.

Annie Black (Rebecca Pidgeon)

Annie is a thoughtful local bookseller who seeks to inspire the struggling screenwriter, Joe. Her nurturing nature and creativity offer a counterbalance to the chaotic film crew's presence. Through her interactions with Joe, she embodies the spirit of community and emotional support, pivotal for his personal and creative growth.

📚 Bookseller 🌟 Supportive

Joseph Turner White (Philip Seymour Hoffman)

Joe is an inexperienced screenwriter grappling with writer's block at a critical juncture in the production. His journey reflects the challenges of creativity and self-doubt, making him a relatable protagonist. Joe's interactions with Annie serve as both a source of inspiration and conflict as he seeks to overcome his obstacles.

✍️ Writer 🚶‍♂️ Struggling

Walt Price (William H. Macy)

Walt is the determined film director who is trying to keep the production afloat despite mounting challenges. His frustration and pragmatism represent the burdens of leadership in creative industries. As he navigates the chaos around him, he must make tough choices to ensure the film's success.

🎥 Director 💼 Leader

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 21:44

Major Themes – State and Main (2000)

Explore the central themes of State and Main (2000), from psychological, social, and emotional dimensions to philosophical messages. Understand what the film is really saying beneath the surface.

🎬 Creative Struggle

The film explores the challenges faced by creators in the film industry, particularly through Joseph Turner's writer's block. It highlights the pressure to produce quality content amidst personal crises and external chaos. The theme resonates with anyone who has encountered hurdles in their creative endeavors.

🏡 Community Disruption

As the film crew descends on Waterford, the local community is thrown into disarray, showcasing the clash between Hollywood ambition and small-town life. Residents' frustrations with the production's impact reflect broader themes of how outsiders can disrupt a close-knit community. This theme emphasizes the importance of balancing progress with the preservation of local culture.

❤️ Unexpected Romance

Amidst the chaos, a budding romance springs between Joe and Annie, weaving personal relationships into the narrative of professional endeavors. Their connection highlights the idea that love can grow even in tumultuous circumstances, adding a layer of warmth and emotional depth to the story. This theme suggests that human connections can emerge from the strangest of situations.

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 21:44

Unlock the Full Story of State and Main

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

State and Main Summary

Read a complete plot summary of State and Main, 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.

State and Main Summary

State and Main Timeline

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

State and Main Timeline

More About State and Main

Visit What's After the Movie to explore more about State and Main: 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 State and Main

Similar Movies to State and Main

Discover movies like State and Main that share similar genres, themes, and storytelling elements. Whether you’re drawn to the atmosphere, character arcs, or plot structure, these curated recommendations will help you explore more films you’ll love.