Stealing Harvard

Stealing Harvard

Year: 2002

Runtime: 85 min

Language: English

Director: Bruce McCulloch

DramaComedyCrime

In the hilarious and heartwarming comedy Stealing Harvard, John's simple life is turned upside down when he's forced to choose between his lifelong dream of marrying Elaine and honoring a promise to his niece by resorting to unconventional means.

Warning: spoilers below!

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Timeline & Setting – Stealing Harvard (2002)
Explore the full timeline and setting of Stealing Harvard (2002). Follow every major event in chronological order and see how the environment shapes the story, characters, and dramatic tension.

Time period

The film seems to take place in contemporary times, as indicated by the modern societal themes and interactions among the characters. The story highlights issues of financial struggles and moral dilemmas that resonate in today's culture.

Location

Harvard University, suburban neighborhood

Harvard University is an iconic Ivy League institution known for its academic excellence and prestigious reputation. The suburban neighborhood represents the mundanity and familial connections that play a crucial role in the characters' lives, serving as the backdrop for John’s struggles and aspirations.

🏛️ Education 🏡 Home

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 20:34

Main Characters – Stealing Harvard (2002)
Meet the key characters of Stealing Harvard (2002), with detailed profiles, motivations, and roles in the plot. Understand their emotional journeys and what they reveal about the film’s deeper themes.

John Plummer (Jason Lee)

John is a well-meaning man caught in a web of responsibilities and societal expectations. His character evolves from indecision and anxiety to taking bold, albeit misguided, actions to support his family. He embodies the struggle between ambition and loyalty.

👨‍👩‍👦 Family 🤔 Decisions 💪 Determination

Walter 'Duff' Duffy (Tom Green)

Duff is John's eccentric best friend, known for his impulsive nature and questionable ideas. His character provides comic relief but also reflects the impact of peer pressure and reminiscence of childhood experiences. Ultimately, he seeks redemption through his actions.

😂 Humor 🎭 Eccentricity 🔄 Redemption

Elaine Warner (Leslie Mann)

Elaine is charming but somewhat scatterbrained, adding to the comedic tension of the film. Her perspective on John's struggles is pivotal, and she ultimately supports him despite the chaos. Her character embodies a blend of compassion and modern romantic challenges.

💖 Romance 🤷‍♀️ Scatterbrained 👩‍🏫 Support

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 20:34

Major Themes – Stealing Harvard (2002)
Explore the central themes of Stealing Harvard (2002), from psychological, social, and emotional dimensions to philosophical messages. Understand what the film is really saying beneath the surface.

🤝 Familial Loyalty

Familial loyalty is a central theme, as John struggles with his promise to support his niece Noreen while trying to maintain his relationship with Elaine. The movie explores the conflict between personal ambitions and the responsibility one feels towards family members in need.

💔 Sacrifice

The theme of sacrifice emerges as John navigates the challenges of providing for both his niece's education and his fiancée's expectations. His willingness to gamble and engage in questionable activities underscores the lengths one may go for loved ones.

😂 Comedy of Errors

The film captures a comedy of errors that ensues as John and Duff engage in increasingly outrageous schemes. The humorous situations highlight how desperation can lead to absurd outcomes, providing both laughter and poignant lessons.

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 20:34

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