The Prom (2020) Characters, Setting & Themes Explained

The movie takes place primarily in Indiana, a state known for its conservative values and tight-knit community. A key part of the story also unfolds on Broadway in New York City, where the two main protagonists, Dee Dee Allen and Barry Glickman, come from. This contrast between small-town Indiana and the vibrant, diverse theatre world of Broadway creates the central narrative tension.

• setting
• indiana
• broadway
• location

The Prom is set in contemporary America, during a time when LGBTQ+ rights and inclusivity were becoming more widely recognized in public discourse. The story reflects the cultural clash between these progressive shifts and the traditional conservative values that still persist in certain communities.

• time period
• contemporary
• modern
• lgbtq rights

The Prom explores several interconnected themes, with acceptance being central. The film follows Emma Nolan's fight to attend prom with her girlfriend, highlighting the struggle for recognition and rights within the LGBTQ+ community. The story emphasizes how love and support from others can help overcome prejudice.

• theme
• acceptance
• lgbtq
• love
• prejudice

Emma Nolan is the central character of The Prom, a courageous lesbian high school student in Indiana who wants to bring her girlfriend to prom. Her journey represents the challenges faced by LGBTQ+ teenagers in conservative environments, including bullying, isolation, and the fight for basic rights to be themselves.

• emma nolan
• character
• lesbian
• student

Mrs. Greene is a mother in Indiana portrayed by Kerry Washington who embodies the struggle between traditional community values and the need for change. She faces personal conflict as she grapples with her daughter Alyssa's support for Emma versus her own stance on maintaining conventional norms.

• mrs greene
• kerry washington
• mother
• conservative

Dee Dee Allen, played by Meryl Streep, is a once-famous Broadway star whose career has stalled. She initially approaches Emma's cause as a publicity stunt to revive her public image but undergoes genuine transformation, learning to confront her vanity and become an empathetic champion for the LGBTQ+ community.

• dee dee allen
• meryl streep
• broadway
• celebrity

Barry Glickman, portrayed by James Corden, is a flamboyant Broadway actor who accompanies Dee Dee on her journey to Indiana. Despite his theatrical personality, he becomes genuinely emotionally invested in Emma's story, representing themes of vulnerability and the search for self-acceptance.

• barry glickman
• james corden
• broadway
• actor

The contrast between Indiana and Broadway represents the larger cultural divide in the film. Indiana symbolizes conservative, traditional values and a homogeneous community, while Broadway represents diversity, theatrical expression, and a more progressive worldview. The Broadway stars' journey into small-town America forces them to confront their own prejudices and learn genuine empathy.

• indiana
• broadway
• contrast
• values
• culture

Betrayal is a significant theme in The Prom, primarily illustrated through Mrs. Greene's actions. She organizes an alternative prom for students who don't support the LGBTQ+ community, effectively marginalizing Emma. This act of betrayal, done in the name of tradition, causes Emma significant emotional pain and highlights the complex tension between familial loyalty and inclusivity.

• betrayal
• mrs greene
• tradition
• family

Unity emerges as characters from different backgrounds rally together to support Emma's right to attend prom with her girlfriend. The Broadway stars, Alyssa Greene, and supportive community members join forces, culminating in a joyous celebration that defies divisions. This theme showcases the power of collective action and community in fostering love and acceptance.

• unity
• community
• celebration
• togetherness

Alyssa Greene, played by Ariana DeBose, is Mrs. Greene's daughter and Emma's love interest. She represents the internal conflict between familial loyalty and the desire for inclusivity. Despite pressure from her mother, Alyssa demonstrates bravery by standing up for her beliefs and supporting Emma throughout her struggle.

• alyssa greene
• ariana debose
• daughter
• ally

The Prom blends multiple genres as a musical comedy-drama. While the subject matter involves serious issues like homophobia and discrimination, the film counterbalances these heavy moments with optimistic musical numbers, campy performances, and a hopeful tone. The overall presentation prevents the story from feeling too heavy while still addressing meaningful social themes.

• genre
• comedy
• drama
• musical
• tone