The Hero

The Hero

Year: 2017

Runtime: 93 min

Language: English

Director: Brett Haley

DramaComedy

A former Western star, Lee Hayden, finds his career and life fading into obscurity. Facing a cancer diagnosis, he's forced to confront his past and the impact he’s had on his family, particularly his estranged daughter. He also forms an unexpected connection with a stand-up comedian. As he grapples with his mortality, he seeks a final chance at redemption and a renewed sense of purpose.

Warning: spoilers below!

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Timeline & Setting – The Hero (2017)

Explore the full timeline and setting of The Hero (2017). Follow every major event in chronological order and see how the environment shapes the story, characters, and dramatic tension.

Time period

Modern Day

The events of the film occur in the present day, highlighting contemporary issues such as the struggles of aging in the entertainment industry and the healthcare challenges posed by serious illness. This time period emphasizes the realities many face regarding their legacies and personal connections as they confront life-altering situations.

Location

Texas

The movie primarily takes place in Texas, known for its vast landscapes and rich cowboy culture. It serves as a backdrop for Lee Hayden's journey as an actor and an individual facing personal challenges, reflecting both the ruggedness of his character and the warmth of his connections.

🏜️ Texas 🎬 Filming Locations

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 19:48

Main Characters – The Hero (2017)

Meet the key characters of The Hero (2017), with detailed profiles, motivations, and roles in the plot. Understand their emotional journeys and what they reveal about the film’s deeper themes.

Lee Hayden (Nick Offerman)

Lee Hayden is a 71-year-old cowboy actor wrestling with his identity and purpose as he faces a terminal illness. Throughout the film, he evolves from a man trapped in nostalgia and frustration to someone who reevaluates his relationships and dreams. His complexities and vulnerabilities make him a relatable character navigating life’s uncertainties.

🎬 Actor 💔 Cancer 👨‍👧 Fatherhood

Charlotte (Krysten Ritter)

Charlotte represents a beacon of hope in Lee's life, igniting his desire to embrace creativity and love despite their age difference. Her boldness and whimsical spirit encourage Lee to confront difficult emotions and his diagnosis, showing the transformative power of connection in overcoming personal struggles.

❤️ Love ✨ Inspiration 👩‍🎨 Artist

Peter (Frank Collison)

Peter, Lee's agent, embodies the harsh realities of the entertainment industry, providing a reminder of the fleeting nature of careers. His efforts to support Lee in a time of scarcity highlight the challenges faced by actors in their golden years, showcasing the loyalty hidden within their professional relationship.

🎭 Agent 💼 Career 🚪 Opportunity

Valarie (Laura Prepon)

Valarie, Lee's ex-wife, brings forth unresolved issues from their past, presenting a critical element of Lee's character arc. Their interactions reveal emotional scars and the possibility of healing, serving as a reminder of how relationships shape our lives, for better or for worse.

💔 Ex-Spouse ❤️ Past Love 🔄 Reconnection

Lucy (Katharine Ross)

Lucy, Lee's estranged daughter, represents the consequences of Lee's past choices and his desire for redemption. Through her character, the film explores the complexities of family relationships, especially during times of crisis, showcasing the challenges of understanding and forgiveness.

👨‍👧 Daughter 💼 Professional 🔥 Tension

Jeremy (Max Gail)

Jeremy serves as Lee's old friend and a source of advice, enabling him to reconnect with his dreams and aspirations. His character infuses lightheartedness into the narrative, demonstrating the importance of friendship and support during challenging times.

🤝 Friend 🌿 Mentor 🎉 Spirit

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 19:48

Major Themes – The Hero (2017)

Explore the central themes of The Hero (2017), from psychological, social, and emotional dimensions to philosophical messages. Understand what the film is really saying beneath the surface.

🎭 Acceptance

The theme of acceptance is prevalent as Lee faces his pancreatic cancer diagnosis. Throughout the film, he navigates through rejection and the pain of his past relationships, ultimately coming to terms with his reality and the support from those around him. This journey of acceptance resonates deeply, as Lee learns to embrace love and the fragility of life.

💔 Family

Family dynamics play a crucial role in the narrative, particularly Lee's strained relationships with his ex-wife and estranged daughter. The film explores themes of regret and the desire for reconnection, showcasing poignant moments that highlight the complexity of familial love, disappointment, and reconciliation in the face of hardship.

🌟 Legacy

As a seasoned actor, Lee's quest for significance in his craft and life embodies the theme of legacy. He grapples with the impact of his past roles and seeks to create a meaningful film reflecting his journey. The narrative illustrates how one shapes their legacy through choices, relationships, and the courage to face one's truths.

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 19:48

Unlock the Full Story of The Hero

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

The Hero Summary

Read a complete plot summary of The Hero, 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.

The Hero Summary

The Hero Timeline

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

The Hero Timeline

More About The Hero

Visit What's After the Movie to explore more about The Hero: 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 The Hero

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