The Hero

The 2017 American drama movie, The Hero, is a poignant account of life at the crossroads. It beautifully captures the journey of a cinematic actor grappling with the solitude of his once-glittering past, the stark reality of his present, and the uncertainty of his future. The film is directed by Brett Haley and features esteemed actors including Sam Elliott, Laura Prepon, and Krysten Ritter, whose stunning performances bring depth and grace to the narrative.

The protagonist of The Hero, Lee Hayden (played by Sam Elliott), is an aging Western film icon. Lee's glory days seem far behind him, leaving him with little to savor but the memories of the prime of his career. He lives a solitary existence, marred with loneliness and regret over relationships lost and opportunities unseized. His solitude is interrupted only by his connection with his former co-star and long-time drug dealer, Jeremy (Nick Offerman).

When Lee is diagnosed with a serious health condition, it triggers a moment of introspection, compelling him to revisit his past relationships and confront the ambiguity of his future. The illness brings on a painful reckoning of his life's choices and an examination of strained relationships, particularly with his estranged but caring daughter, Lucy (Krysten Ritter).

Just as Lee finds himself grappling with his own mortality, he becomes enmeshed in a romantic relationship with Charlotte Dylan (Laura Prepon), a stand-up comedian. Charlotte is several decades his junior, but a bond forms between them, serving as an unexpected source of hope and connection in his life. Charlotte's profound fondness for Lee and her witty, vibrant presence portray an interesting dynamic against Lee's aging persona.

Lee's personal upheaval becomes further complicated when a surprising event provides a chance at renewed fame and potentially career-reviving opportunity. This chance triggers a contemplation of his legacy and the kind of man he wants to be remembered as. What unfolds is a reflection on aging, fame, relationships, and life itself, told through Lee's interactions with those around him.

Sam Elliott, with his deep resonant voice and ruggedly handsome features, delivers a powerful and affecting performance. He smoothly captures the nuances of Lee's character, showcasing his emotional depth and vulnerability. Laura Prepon as Charlotte Dylan brings a fascinating layer to the film with her wit and charm. Her scenes with Elliott display a chemistry that marries the ruggedness of his age with her youthful zeal. The dynamic between the two actors provides a foundation for some of the most evocative moments in the film.

Krysten Ritter, as Lee's daughter Lucy, gives a gripping and emotional performance. Her dysfunctional relationship with her father adds a dimensions of drama to the narrative. Nick Offerman, in the role of Jeremy, is an interesting part of Lee's world, providing a touch of humor and melancholy to this heart-wrenching tale.

The film's narrative style, paired with Brett Haley's distinct directorial vision, creates a sense of realism. The cinematic choices, including the scenic shots of the California coastline, the rustic feel of Lee's home, and the specific choice of music, contribute to the contemplative mood of the film.

The Hero isn’t just about an actor's fleeting fame or a man's struggle with mortality. It's a stirring exploration of a man's quest for meaning and relevance in life, his pursuit of love, his need for reconciliation, and his struggle with the inevitability of his mortality. It attempts to subtlety highlight the human side of celebrity, the fading of physical vitality, and the fear and acceptance of death.

In its totality, The Hero is a soul-stirring drama about life's inevitable decline and the pursuit of redemption. It portrays an intimate exploration of love, loss, and legacy through the lens of an aging actor, combining emotional intensity and humanity in a beautifully delivered narrative. Featuring powerful performances, a stirring soundtrack, and stunning cinematography, The Hero digs deep to explore themes of mortality, love, and the human desire for relevance and connection.