Trash Fire

The film exists in a contemporary setting, exploring themes of trauma and family dynamics in modern life. The characters are faced with current societal challenges, including mental health struggles and the complexities of relationships.

Owen's childhood home is a haunting reminder of his tragic past, consumed by fire and filled with memories of lost loved ones. Isabel's grandmother's house serves as a battleground for familial conflicts, with its claustrophobic spaces reflecting the turmoil within and the difficult relationships among its inhabitants.

🔥 Trauma

Trauma is a central theme in the film, vividly represented through Owen's experiences and emotional struggles stemming from the fire that devastated his childhood. This theme extends beyond Owen to affect his sister Pearl and reverberates in his relationships with Isabel and their families.

💔 Abandonment

Abandonment runs deep throughout the narrative, particularly in Owen's guilt over leaving Pearl behind after the fire. This theme is crucial in shaping the characters' interactions and pushing Owen to confront his demons in a bid for redemption.

🌀 Desperation

Desperation is palpable as Owen grapples with self-destructive behavior and the fear of failure in his relationships. The film explores how desperation can lead individuals to both despair and unexpected acts of courage, particularly seen in the tense dynamics between Owen, Isabel, Pearl, and Violet.