Three for the Road

Three for the Road

Year: 1987

Runtime: 88 min

Language: English

Director: Bill L. Norton

DramaComedy

A seasoned politician and an endearing, somewhat awkward friend find themselves on a memorable road trip. Their mission: to safely return a spirited teenager to her estranged father, who holds a prominent position as a senator. Along the journey, they encounter unexpected challenges and humorous situations, forcing them to confront their own personal flaws and appreciate their contrasting personalities while forging a surprising bond.

Warning: spoilers below!

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Timeline & Setting – Three for the Road (1987)

Explore the full timeline and setting of Three for the Road (1987). Follow every major event in chronological order and see how the environment shapes the story, characters, and dramatic tension.

Time period

The time period of the film is contemporary to the 1980s, showcasing the socio-political landscape of that era, particularly in relation to mental health and familial issues. The film hints at the struggles of youth against parental authority and institutional control, which resonates with the challenges of that time.

Location

Rehabilitation Center, various locations on the road

The movie unfolds primarily at a rehabilitation center for girls, which symbolizes both confinement and hope for recovery. As Paul, Robin, and their friends travel, they encounter various locations representing freedom and escape from their troubled realities.

🏥 Rehabilitation 🚗 Journey

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 23:29

Main Characters – Three for the Road (1987)

Meet the key characters of Three for the Road (1987), with detailed profiles, motivations, and roles in the plot. Understand their emotional journeys and what they reveal about the film’s deeper themes.

Paul Tracy (Charlie Sheen)

Paul is a determined college student with political ambitions, driven by a desire to secure his future and help others. His compassion and bravery shine through as he fights for Robin's freedom, showcasing his growth from an ambitious intern to a courageous ally.

🎓 Student 🚀 Ambitious 🦸‍♂️ Hero

Robin (Kerri Green)

Robin is portrayed as a troubled yet resilient young woman, initially subdued by her father's control. As the journey progresses, she reveals her inner strength and determination to reclaim her life, symbolizing the fight against oppression.

👩‍🎤 Rebellious 🌧️ Troubled 💪 Strong

Senator Kitteridge (Raymond J. Barry)

Senator Kitteridge epitomizes authority and control, representing the oppressive figures in Robin's life. His actions are driven by a desire to maintain power, ultimately confronting Paul and trying to thwart the escape plan, revealing his true nature.

👔 Authority 🚫 Oppressive 🌪️ Antagonist

T.S. (Alan Ruck)

T.S. is the supportive and aspiring writer, who represents loyalty and friendship. He assists Paul in the mission to help Robin, showcasing the importance of having friends who stand by you in times of trouble and uncertainty.

📖 Writer 🤗 Supportive 🤔 Thoughtful

Blanche (Sally Kellerman)

Blanche is Robin's estranged mother, fiercely protective but initially paralyzed by fear of her ex-husband. Her character develops through the film as she gains courage to stand up against the Senator, showing the depth of a mother's love.

👩‍👧 Maternal 💪 Courageous 😢 Emotional

Missy Butler (Blair Tefkin)

Missy is a charming Southern girl who adds levity to the journey. Her affection for T.S. showcases the complexities of young love, providing a contrast to the more serious themes of the film.

🌼 Charming 💖 Romantic 🌟 Light-hearted

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 23:29

Major Themes – Three for the Road (1987)

Explore the central themes of Three for the Road (1987), from psychological, social, and emotional dimensions to philosophical messages. Understand what the film is really saying beneath the surface.

🕊️ Freedom

Freedom is a central theme as the characters fight against their constraints—be it a controlling parent or a rigid institution. Paul's determination to help Robin escape signifies the universal desire to break free from oppressive circumstances and seek a new beginning.

💔 Abuse

The narrative addresses the dark topic of abuse, particularly the emotional and physical trauma that Robin endures at the hands of her father. This theme highlights the importance of acknowledging and confronting such issues within familial relationships.

🤝 Friendship

The bond formed between Paul and Robin exemplifies the theme of friendship, showcasing how deep connections can form in challenging circumstances. This camaraderie becomes a beacon of hope as they navigate their struggles together.

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 23:29

Unlock the Full Story of Three for the Road

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

Three for the Road Summary

Read a complete plot summary of Three for the Road, 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.

Three for the Road Summary

Three for the Road Timeline

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

Three for the Road Timeline

More About Three for the Road

Visit What's After the Movie to explore more about Three for the Road: 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 Three for the Road

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