The Border

The Border

Year: 1982

Runtime: 108 min

Director: Tony Richardson

DramaCrime

When a morally bankrupt border patrolman stumbles upon a desperate mother forced to auction off her newborn, he's compelled to re-examine his own values and make amends by bringing the black-market baby traders to justice.

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Timeline & Setting – The Border (1982)
Explore the full timeline and setting of The Border (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 an exact time period but reflects ongoing contemporary issues surrounding immigration and border control. The events depicted resonate with the social and political climate of the late 20th century, highlighting the ongoing challenges faced by those crossing borders.

Location

El Paso, Los Angeles, Rio Grande, Mexico

El Paso, Texas, serves as the backdrop for much of the conflict in 'The Border,' juxtaposed with the vibrant yet perilous life along the U.S.-Mexico border. Los Angeles represents the urban landscape where immigration policies play out harshly against the lives of those seeking a better future. The Rio Grande is a significant natural boundary, symbolizing the hopes and struggles of those risking everything for a chance at a new life.

🏙️ City 🌅 Border 🏞️ Landscape

Last Updated: January 14, 2025 at 22:10

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

Charlie Smith (Jack Nicholson)

Charlie is an immigration officer navigating the moral complexities of his job while dealing with personal dissatisfaction in his life. His character evolves as he faces the harsh realities of the border, challenging his beliefs and ultimately leading him to actions that defy the law.

👮‍♂️ Officer 🌪️ Conflict 🔫 Vigilant

Maria (Elpidia Carrillo)

Maria is a resilient young mother whose journey through despair and loss highlights the struggles of immigrants. Her determination to reunite with her family and protect her child showcases strength in the face of tragedy and adversity.

👶 Mother 🇲🇽 Immigrant ❤️ Resilience

Cat (Harvey Keitel)

Cat is Charlie's partner, embodying the ethical grey area within border enforcement. His character serves as a catalyst for Charlie's moral challenges, offering a contrasting viewpoint on the complexities of their work.

👮 Partner 💰 Corruption 🌪️ Conflict

Marcy (Valerie Perrine)

Marcy, Charlie's wife, embodies the frustrations of domestic life while grappling with her own desires for a better life. Her ambitions often clash with Charlie's, highlighting the strain of their relationship amid external pressures.

👩‍❤️‍👨 Wife 💔 Frustration 🔍 Ambition

Juan (Manuel Viescas)

Juan is Maria's younger brother, whose loyalty and youthful spirit add emotional depth to the narrative. His tragic fate serves as a poignant reminder of the risks involved in seeking a better life across borders.

👦 Brother 💔 Loss 🇲🇽 Struggle

Last Updated: January 14, 2025 at 22:10

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

🌍 Immigration

The theme of immigration is central to the film, showcasing the dangerous journey undertaken by those fleeing poverty. It illustrates the stark realities faced by families navigating the complexities of crossing the border and the moral dilemmas encountered by those in positions of authority.

⚖️ Justice

Justice is explored through the conflicted character of Charlie, who grapples with his role in an unjust system. His choices highlight the struggle between personal ethics and professional obligation, culminating in violent confrontations that question the true meaning of justice.

💔 Family

The theme of family is poignant throughout the movie, especially through Maria’s desperate search for her lost baby and her relationship with her brother Juan. It underscores the lengths individuals go to protect their loved ones amidst chaos and tragedy.

Last Updated: January 14, 2025 at 22:10

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