The Last of the High Kings

The Last of the High Kings

Year: 1996

Runtime: 102 mins

Language: English

Director: David Keating

DramaComedy

Set in 1977 Dublin, a city pulsing with Thin Lizzy and still stunned by Elvis's death, teen Frankie finishes his final exams and faces the uncertain road to adulthood. Convinced he'll fail, he spends the summer planning a beach party, dreaming about two unattainable girls, fending off an American family friend, and coping with his eccentric family.

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Timeline & Setting – The Last of the High Kings (1996)

Explore the full timeline and setting of The Last of the High Kings (1996). Follow every major event in chronological order and see how the environment shapes the story, characters, and dramatic tension.

Time period

Summer of 1977

The movie takes place during the summer of 1977, a time marked by cultural shifts and significant events like the death of Elvis Presley. This period reflects the social and political atmosphere of Ireland in the late 1970s. The summer setting emphasizes themes of youth, transition, and nostalgia, capturing a snapshot of life during this era.

Location

Howth, County Dublin, Ireland

Howth is a picturesque coastal village known for its scenic cliffs, harbor, and historic lighthouse. It offers a traditional Irish setting with a close-knit community, popular for seaside walks and fishing. The village provides a charming backdrop for the movie's coming-of-age story, capturing the tranquility and youthful energy of summer.

🌊 Coastal 🇮🇪 Irish 🏘️ Village life

Last Updated: August 19, 2025 at 04:58

Main Characters – The Last of the High Kings (1996)

Meet the key characters of The Last of the High Kings (1996), with detailed profiles, motivations, and roles in the plot. Understand their emotional journeys and what they reveal about the film’s deeper themes.

Frankie Griffin (Jared Leto)

A teenage boy navigating the emotional turbulence of adolescence, Frankie is optimistic yet insecure about his future. His character embodies youthful curiosity, longing, and the desire to find his place in the world amidst familial and societal pressures.

🎸 Teenager 💭 Dreamer 🧭 Searching

Romy Thomas (Emily Mortimer)

A kind and confident girl, Romy is a love interest who symbolizes youthful desire and emotional vulnerability. Her interactions with Frankie highlight themes of affection and teenage complexity, serving as a catalyst for his romantic development.

💖 Love interest 🌟 Confident 😊 Compassionate

Cathleen (Catherine O'Hara)

Frankie's mother, an outspoken and protective figure, embodies traditional Irish values. Her overbearing attitude and occasional comic relief underscore her concern for her family’s reputation and her support for her children’s growth, despite her firm stance.

👩 Mother 🎭 Comedic 🛡️ Protector

Last Updated: August 19, 2025 at 04:58

Major Themes – The Last of the High Kings (1996)

Explore the central themes of The Last of the High Kings (1996), from psychological, social, and emotional dimensions to philosophical messages. Understand what the film is really saying beneath the surface.

🎸 Coming of Age

The film explores the journey of adolescence, focusing on Frankie’s experiences with love, identity, and self-discovery. It highlights the challenges and joys of growing up in a small Irish village, emphasizing the importance of friendship, family, and personal growth during this pivotal life stage.

🔥 Youth and Rebellion

Rebellion against adult authority and societal expectations is a central theme. Frankie's rebellious acts, like vandalizing the ballot box and disorderly parties, illustrate the desire for independence and to challenge norms. The film underscores youthful defiance and the pursuit of personal freedom amidst social constraints.

💔 Love and Heartbreak

Romantic relationships, complicated by class, religion, and adolescence, drive much of the emotional narrative. Frankie’s romantic confusion and confession reflect the tumult of first love and emotional vulnerability. The movie captures the innocence and intensity of teenage love.

Last Updated: August 19, 2025 at 04:58

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Unlock the Full Story of The Last of the High Kings

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The Last of the High Kings Summary

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The Last of the High Kings Summary

The Last of the High Kings Timeline

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The Last of the High Kings Timeline

The Last of the High Kings Spoiler-Free Summary

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The Last of the High Kings Spoiler-Free Summary

More About The Last of the High Kings

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