The Yards

The Yards

Year: 2000

Runtime: 115 min

Language: English

Director: James Gray

DramaThrillerCrime

In the gritty underbelly of New York City's subway yards, former convict Leo Handler seeks redemption and a fresh start. But as he reunites with his ruthless uncle in this treacherous world, Leo must navigate a labyrinth of loyalty, betrayal, and violence to reclaim his life and escape the darkness that haunts him.

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Timeline & Setting – The Yards (2000)
Explore the full timeline and setting of The Yards (2000). Follow every major event in chronological order and see how the environment shapes the story, characters, and dramatic tension.

Time period

The movie's events unfold in contemporary times, capturing the struggles of individuals immersed in a web of corruption and deception. This period showcases the challenges faced by many returning from incarceration as they navigate the societal repercussions of their past.

Location

Queens, Roosevelt Island, Brooklyn, Maspeth

The movie primarily takes place in Queens, known for its diverse neighborhoods and as a hub for long-standing industrial activities. Roosevelt Island offers a contrasting view, being a largely residential area with a unique sense of isolation. Brooklyn serves as a backdrop for the subway repairs, integrating the city's transportation complexities into the storyline.

🏙️ Urban 🚉 Transportation 🌉 Island

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 22:31

Main Characters – The Yards (2000)
Meet the key characters of The Yards (2000), with detailed profiles, motivations, and roles in the plot. Understand their emotional journeys and what they reveal about the film’s deeper themes.

Leo Handler

Leo is a complex character who struggles with his identity after being released from prison. He is determined to start anew, but finds himself quickly drawn back into a world of crime and corruption. His loyalty to family and friends is tested as he navigates the perilous landscape of betrayal and violence.

👨‍💼 Protagonist ⚖️ Justice Seeker 🤝 Loyal Friend

Willie Gutierrez

Willie is depicted as a troubled character grappling with his own demons. His decisions often sway between loyalty and self-preservation, leading him to make tragic choices that ultimately harm those around him. His complexity is unveiled through his relationships and the burden of guilt he carries.

⚖️ Instigator 🤔 Troubled Soul 🔪 Antagonist

Val Handler

Val is Leo's mother, representing unwavering love and support despite the turbulent circumstances surrounding her family. She embodies resilience and protective instincts, which are sorely tested amid the chaos. Her character highlights the emotional stakes involved in familial loyalty and sacrifice.

👩‍👧 Matriarch 💖 Supportive 🌟 Resilient

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 22:31

Major Themes – The Yards (2000)
Explore the central themes of The Yards (2000), from psychological, social, and emotional dimensions to philosophical messages. Understand what the film is really saying beneath the surface.

⚖️ Justice

The quest for justice permeates the narrative as Leo grapples with his past while attempting to right the wrongs of a corrupt system. His journey showcases the moral complexities faced by individuals entangled in crime and loyalty, ultimately culminating in a courageous stand against those in power. The theme reflects a broader societal commentary on corruption and accountability.

💔 Betrayal

Betrayal is a critical theme, especially depicted through the relationships Leo has with others, such as Erica and Willie. These bonds fracture under the weight of greed and violence, showing how deeply personal affiliations can lead to tragic consequences. This theme illustrates the inherent risks of misplaced trust in volatile situations.

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 22:31

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