The Woodsman

The Woodsman

Year: 2004

Runtime: 87 min

Language: English

Director: Nicole Kassell

Drama

After serving twelve years in prison, Walter struggles to reintegrate into society. He finds work at a lumber mill and begins a cautious relationship with a coworker, attempting to leave his past behind. However, a dark secret and buried impulses resurface, jeopardizing his newfound peace and threatening to unravel the life he’s rebuilt.

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Timeline & Setting – The Woodsman (2004)

Explore the full timeline and setting of The Woodsman (2004). Follow every major event in chronological order and see how the environment shapes the story, characters, and dramatic tension.

Time period

The story unfolds in contemporary times, reflecting modern societal attitudes towards criminal rehabilitation and forgiveness. The narrative captures the tension between the present and a troubled past, highlighting the challenges faced by ex-convicts in seeking acceptance.

Location

Philadelphia

Philadelphia, known as the 'City of Brotherly Love', is rich in history and culture. It's famous for its vibrant arts scene, historic landmarks, and diverse neighborhoods. The contrast between urban life and the surrounding nature plays a crucial role in shaping the characters' experiences.

🏙️ City 🌳 Nature

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 19:36

Main Characters – The Woodsman (2004)

Meet the key characters of The Woodsman (2004), with detailed profiles, motivations, and roles in the plot. Understand their emotional journeys and what they reveal about the film’s deeper themes.

Walter (Kevin Bacon)

Walter is a deeply complex character grappling with his past as a convicted child molester. His journey towards redemption is fraught with challenges, including societal rejection and internal conflict. Despite his dark history, Walter displays moments of goodness and vulnerability, indicating his desire for change and acceptance.

🧑‍⚖️ Ex-convict ❤️ Seeking redemption

Lucas (Mos Def)

Lucas is a verbally abrasive cop tasked with monitoring Walter. His character represents the embodiment of societal judgment and the struggle for justice. While his intentions may align with protecting children, his hostility towards Walter complicates the narrative surrounding law enforcement's role in the community.

👮‍♂️ Authority ⚔️ Conflict

Vicki (Kyra Sedgwick)

Vicki serves as a symbol of hope for Walter, initially drawn to him but later conflicted due to his past. Her character highlights the struggles faced by those who engage with individuals seeking redemption, showcasing the complexity of empathy in human relationships. As she grows closer to Walter, Vicki represents potential for healing.

💔 Compassion 💼 Working-class

Candy

Candy embodies the predatory aspect that haunts Walter's past, his character juxtaposed against Walter's desire to change. Through his actions, Candy creates a significant source of conflict, pushing Walter to confront his dark instincts and ultimately driving the story towards a violent climax.

👹 Antagonist 🧩 Catalyst

Robin

Robin is a young bird-watcher whose innocent nature contrasts sharply with Walter's tumultuous past. She becomes a pivotal figure in Walter's journey, representing purity and vulnerability. Walter's protective instincts toward her reveal his internal struggle and desire to act responsibly.

🦋 Innocence 🌈 Hope

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 19:36

Major Themes – The Woodsman (2004)

Explore the central themes of The Woodsman (2004), from psychological, social, and emotional dimensions to philosophical messages. Understand what the film is really saying beneath the surface.

🕊️ Redemption

The theme of redemption is central to Walter's journey as he seeks to rebuild his life after serving time for his past transgressions. His struggle against societal judgment and personal demons illustrates the complexities of forgiveness. The narrative evokes a sense of hope as Walter strives for connection despite a deeply flawed history.

⚖️ Justice vs. Forgiveness

The film grapples with the delicate balance between justice and the possibility of forgiveness. Characters exhibit profound struggles with their perceptions of Walter, torn between his past crimes and evidence of his desire to change. This theme raises questions about societal acceptance and the capacity to forgive those who have wronged.

👥 Isolation

Isolation pervades Walter's life following his release from prison, evidenced by the abandonment by friends and family. His longing for human connection juxtaposed with societal scorn creates a poignant portrayal of loneliness. The characters around him often reflect their own fears and prejudices, intensifying his sense of isolation despite his efforts to reconnect.

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 19:36

Unlock the Full Story of The Woodsman

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

The Woodsman Summary

Read a complete plot summary of The Woodsman, 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 Woodsman Summary

The Woodsman Timeline

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

The Woodsman Timeline

More About The Woodsman

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

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