The Last Detail

The Last Detail

Year: 1973

Runtime: 104 min

Language: English

Director: Hal Ashby

DramaComedy

As two grizzled Navy lifers escort young sailor Larry Meadows to prison, Billy Buddusky and Mule Mulhall's tough exteriors soften in the face of his charm. Along the way, they treat him to indulgent escapades, from a visit to a brothel to a trip to his mother's doorstep. As their bond with Larry grows, they're forced to confront the harsh realities of their duty, testing their sense of loyalty and morality.

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Timeline & Setting – The Last Detail (1973)
Explore the full timeline and setting of The Last Detail (1973). Follow every major event in chronological order and see how the environment shapes the story, characters, and dramatic tension.

Time period

The story unfolds amidst the backdrop of a frigid winter, which accentuates the bleakness of Meadows' situation and the officers' emotional journey. The time period reflects a post-war era where the military's strict codes of honor and justice are juxtaposed with personal compassion and understanding.

Location

Norfolk Naval Base, Portsmouth Military Prison

The Norfolk Naval Base, located in Virginia, is a significant military installation known for its operational capacity and rich naval history. Portsmouth Military Prison, on the other hand, serves as a facility for military offenders, marking the end of several service members' careers. The contrasting settings highlight the film's themes of duty and freedom.

🏖️ Military Base 🏰 Prison

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 21:25

Main Characters – The Last Detail (1973)
Meet the key characters of The Last Detail (1973), with detailed profiles, motivations, and roles in the plot. Understand their emotional journeys and what they reveal about the film’s deeper themes.

William 'Badass' Buddusky (Jack Nicholson)

Buddusky, a seasoned Signalman, embodies a blend of cynicism and deeply rooted empathy. Initially disinclined to care about Meadows’ fate, he undergoes an emotional transformation, showcasing a protective instinct that drives his decision-making. His character serves as both a mentor and a rebellious spirit, ultimately questioning the rigid structures of military life.

👮‍♂️ Officer 🤝 Mentor

Gunner's Mate First Class 'Mule' Mulhall (Randy Quaid)

Mulhall is characterized as the more reluctant of the duo, initially showing resistance to their mission. However, as the journey progresses, he reveals a sensitive side, fostering a unique bond with Meadows. His transition from skepticism to camaraderie highlights the impact of shared experiences in fostering understanding.

🧑‍✈️ Officer 😐 Reluctant

Lawrence M. Meadows

A timid and frightened young man, Meadows epitomizes vulnerability. His journey from a dishonorably discharged seaman to a person seeking redemption reveals profound layers of his character. As he navigates the complexities of his fate, he becomes a symbol of hope and transformation amidst dire circumstances.

👦 Young Man 🥺 Vulnerable

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 21:25

Major Themes – The Last Detail (1973)
Explore the central themes of The Last Detail (1973), from psychological, social, and emotional dimensions to philosophical messages. Understand what the film is really saying beneath the surface.

💔 Empathy

The theme of empathy is central to the narrative as the seasoned officers, initially indifferent to Meadow's plight, gradually develop a deep understanding of his circumstances. Their shared experiences highlight the human capacity for compassion, reminding viewers that everyone has a story worth understanding. The emotional connection enhances the film's exploration of justice beyond military codes.

🏞️ Freedom

The journey taken by Badass, Mule, and Meadows serves as a metaphor for freedom, encapsulating both its beauty and its fragility. As the officers strive to give Meadows a taste of life outside confinement, the joyous moments starkly contrast with his impending sentence. This exploration of fleeting freedom resounds with audiences, reflecting the universal desire for a second chance.

⚓ Duty

Duty drives the actions of the officers throughout the film, illustrating the complexities of adhering to military obligations while also navigating the emotional landscape of their mission. The balance between their responsibilities and their growing bond with Meadows raises questions about the nature of honor and the sacrifices inherent in service.

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 21:25

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