The Glass Shield

The Glass Shield

Year: 1994

Runtime: 109 mins

Language: English

Director: Charles Burnett

DramaThrillerActionCrime

Rookie deputy J.J. is the first Black officer in a white‑dominated sheriff’s department, where he and the new female trooper endure daily racism from fellow deputies. While testifying in the murder trial of Teddy Woods—whom he helped arrest—J.J. uncovers deep police corruption and must risk his own safety to pursue truth and justice.

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Timeline & Setting – The Glass Shield (1994)

Explore the full timeline and setting of The Glass Shield (1994). Follow every major event in chronological order and see how the environment shapes the story, characters, and dramatic tension.

Time period

Late 20th century, likely 1980s or 1990s

The story takes place during a period characterized by tension surrounding race relations and police practices in American cities. This era saw increased scrutiny of law enforcement agencies and calls for reform, reflecting the social and political climate of the time.

Location

Los Angeles

The movie is set in Los Angeles, a major city known for its diverse population and vibrant cultural scene. It is also recognized for its sprawling urban landscape and significant influence in entertainment, politics, and law enforcement. The setting provides a backdrop for exploring issues of race, justice, and police corruption.

🌴 Urban 🌆 City environment 🏛️ Law enforcement hub

Last Updated: August 19, 2025 at 04:53

Main Characters – The Glass Shield (1994)

Meet the key characters of The Glass Shield (1994), with detailed profiles, motivations, and roles in the plot. Understand their emotional journeys and what they reveal about the film’s deeper themes.

Deputy J. J. Johnson (Michael Boatman)

A rookie deputy caught between the pressures of a corrupt system and his desire to do right. His inexperience and race create additional challenges, but he shows integrity and moral conviction that drive the story’s moral conflict.

🎯 Rookie ✊ Justice seeker 🏽 Black protagonist

Deputy Deborah Fields (Lori Petty)

The department’s first female deputy, she initially clashes with Johnson but later partners with him in uncovering corruption. She is determined, morally upright, and strives for fairness within a male-dominated environment.

👩 Female deputy 💪 Determined 🧑‍🤝‍🧑 Ally

Detective Gene Baker (Michael Ironside)

A corrupt detective involved in cover-ups and criminal activities, he prioritizes self-interest over justice. His actions contribute significantly to the systemic corruption illustrated in the film.

🔍 Corrupt cop ⚖️ Antagonist 💰 Greedy

Last Updated: August 19, 2025 at 04:53

Major Themes – The Glass Shield (1994)

Explore the central themes of The Glass Shield (1994), from psychological, social, and emotional dimensions to philosophical messages. Understand what the film is really saying beneath the surface.

⚖️ Justice

The film explores the pursuit of truth and fairness within a corrupt police system. It highlights how justice can be compromised by systemic racism, cover-ups, and abuse of power, prompting characters to seek integrity and accountability.

🤝 Trust & Loyalty

The narrative emphasizes the importance of trust among colleagues and allies, especially in a hostile environment. Loyalty is tested as characters navigate moral dilemmas, with some choosing truth over allegiance, reflecting the complex nature of relationships in law enforcement.

Last Updated: August 19, 2025 at 04:53

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Don't stop at just watching — explore The Glass Shield 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 The Glass Shield is all about. Plus, discover what's next after the movie.

The Glass Shield Summary

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The Glass Shield Summary

The Glass Shield Timeline

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The Glass Shield Timeline

The Glass Shield Spoiler-Free Summary

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The Glass Shield Spoiler-Free Summary

More About The Glass Shield

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The Glass Shield (1994) Plot Summary & Movie Recap

The Glass Shield (1994) Scene-by-Scene Movie Timeline

The Glass Shield (1994) Spoiler-Free Summary & Key Flow