Times Square

Times Square

Year: 1980

Runtime: 111 mins

Language: English

Director: Allan Moyle

MusicDramaSong and danceEmotional teen coming-of-age storiesLegendary musicians and stardom

Set amid the glitter of Times Square, a poor girl unexpectedly rises to fame while a wealthy girl discovers her own courage, and the two form an unlikely friendship. When a 13‑year‑old befriends a rebellious street kid, the mismatched runaways journey to the Big Apple, seeking adventure and self‑discovery together.

Warning: spoilers below!

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Timeline & Setting – Times Square (1980)

Explore the full timeline and setting of Times Square (1980). Follow every major event in chronological order and see how the environment shapes the story, characters, and dramatic tension.

Time period

Late 1970s to early 1980s

Set during a tumultuous period in New York City, the era is marked by urban decay, counterculture, and burgeoning punk scenes. The city’s skyline and nightlife frame the girls’ rebellious spirit and resourcefulness. The time period provides a backdrop for the clash between poverty, media attention, and redevelopment efforts targeting Times Square.

Location

New York Neurological Hospital, Times Square, Chelsea Piers

The story unfolds in New York City, focusing on the bustling Times Square area and its surrounding neighborhoods. Key locations include a hospital in the city, the abandoned Chelsea Piers warehouse where the girls hide, and the rooftop marquee above Times Square where they perform. The urban landscape—gritty, neon-lit, and undergoing change—drives the mood and actions of the characters throughout the film.

🗽 Urban NYC setting 🎭 Coming-of-age 📰 Media & rebellion

Last Updated: October 04, 2025 at 12:42

Main Characters – Times Square (1980)

Meet the key characters of Times Square (1980), with detailed profiles, motivations, and roles in the plot. Understand their emotional journeys and what they reveal about the film’s deeper themes.

Nicky Marotta (Robin Johnson)

A brash, street-smart teen with a raw musical ambition. She hides vulnerability behind quick wit and a fearless attitude, forming a loyal but volatile bond with Pamela. Nicky’s boldness drives the duo’s escape, rebellion, and willingness to risk everything for friendship.

🎯 Rebellious 🧒 Youth 🎤 Music

Pamela Pearl (Trini Alvarado)

A depressed and insecure girl of privilege, neglected by her powerful father. Pamela’s quiet inner world contrasts with Nicky’s brashness, and she discovers courage and autonomy through their partnership. Her journey centers on self-identity and stepping out from under others’ expectations.

💖 Vulnerable 🫂 Friendship 🏁 Self-discovery

Johnny LaGuardia (Tim Curry)

A charismatic radio DJ who hosts a penthouse show above Times Square. He resents the political cleansing of the area and uses the girls as a vehicle to undermine the powerful campaign. His bond with Pamela and Nicky becomes a catalyst for their rise and risk-taking.

🎛️ Radio 🎵 Music 🗣️ Media influence

David Pearl (Peter Coffield)

Pamela’s wealthy, influential father and a commissioner pushing a campaign to sanitize Times Square. He represents control and exploitation, and his actions set the stakes for the girls’ rebellion and the ensuing family conflict.

💼 Wealth & Power 🗞 Media & Campaigns ⚖️ Control

Rosie Washington (Anna Maria Horsford)

Pamela’s social worker who becomes a conduit for the girls’ communications with the public. She embodies care and concern but operates within a system that can be manipulated by powerful interests. Her open letter to Pamela signals both support and the complexities of intervention.

🧑‍💼 Social worker 🗞 Media influence 🤝 Friendship

Last Updated: October 04, 2025 at 12:42

Major Themes – Times Square (1980)

Explore the central themes of Times Square (1980), from psychological, social, and emotional dimensions to philosophical messages. Understand what the film is really saying beneath the surface.

🎭 Identity

Two teenage girls navigate vulnerability and self-definition in a male-dominated urban world. They form a fragile friendship that helps them discover their own voices and strengths. The film explores how personal identity can blossom when external pressures—family, institutions, and media—press in from all sides.

🎵 Music

Punk-infused music becomes a conduit for resistance and self-expression. The Sleez Sisters’ songs turn personal pain into public defiance, echoing the city’s rebellious energy. Music bridges gaps between isolation and community, giving the characters a tangible sense of purpose.

📰 Media & Power

Radio and newspapers become tools that both complicate and empower the protagonists. Johnny LaGuardia’s broadcasts challenge the status quo and expose the manipulation of the city’s redevelopment narrative. The media frenzy surrounding the girls amplifies their defiance and ability to shape public perception.

Last Updated: October 04, 2025 at 12:42

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Unlock the Full Story of Times Square

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

Times Square Summary

Read a complete plot summary of Times Square, 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.

Times Square Summary

Times Square Timeline

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

Times Square Timeline

More About Times Square

Visit What's After the Movie to explore more about Times Square: 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 Times Square