The Last Castle
Kids say
Based on 1 review
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The Last Castle
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A Lot or a Little?
The parents' guide to what's in this movie.
What Parents Need to Know
Parents need to know that The Last Castle is an action drama set within a military prison, with systematic violence and bad language throughout. There is an interesting role reversal that plays on the audiences expectations and prejudices, as the people in prison generally have more positive traits than the reprehensible guards, who include Colonel Winter (James Gandolfini). General Irwin (Robert Redford), an inmate, seeks to remind his fellow prisoners that they are inherently good people, and that they are there to be rehabilitated not just punished. That said, many of the prisoners are still flawed -- bullying and behaving violently. One inmate takes bets on when other prisoners may take their own life. Fist fights result in much blood, prisoners are shot at by rubber bullets, and buildings are set on fire during an uprising. In one particularly graphic scene, a character is shot in the head at close range. There is also a fight on a moving helicopter, which results in a crash and explosion. The strong language is consistent and includes variants of "f--k," as well as words like "s--t" and "pr--k." Characters are seen smoking throughout, and one admits to having smoked "hash," and seems to be dealing a substance within the prison walls.
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What's the Story?
THE LAST CASTLE tells the story of General Irwin (Robert Redford), a decorated war hero who is court-martialed and subsequently incarcerated. He is sent to "The Castle," a maximum security prison under the guidance of Colonel Winter (James Gandolfini). As the latter sanctions the murders of inmates, Irwin realizes he must incite an uprising among his fellow prisoners to oppose Winter's tyrannical rule.
Is It Any Good?
A movie that deals with somewhat conventional cinematic territory, this 2001 prison action drama is elevated by the sheer brilliance of the cast assembled. The Last Castle is a familiar story, ticking off the checklist expected from this genre. But it becomes something far greater than the screenplay deserved, thanks to, among others, Redford, Gandolfini, and a young Mark Ruffalo. Gandolfini in particular steals the show, as the late actor uses his remarkable ability to evoke empathy from the viewer, despite playing the most reprehensible of characters. You somehow find yourself feeling sorry for his sadistic warden, as the actor brings so much nuance to the character.
The film lets itself down somewhat with an overly dramatic final act, perhaps veering a little from realism in the process, and with a jarring sense of patriotism, including cliched footage of the U.S. flag blowing in the wind. But take that away and the story and performances do enough to ensure it remains an agreeable way to spend your time.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about the violence and fighting in The Last Castle. How did the movie present these things? How did they make you feel? Does exposure to violent media desensitize kids to violence?
Discuss some of the language used. Did it seem necessary or excessive? What did it contribute to the movie?
How did the film look at the prison system and the idea of rehabilitation? Do you think everyone deserves a second chance in life? What is the purpose of prison?
Discuss how the movie portrayed the prisoners as the heroes and the guards as the villains. Did this role reversal feel strange or did it work for you? Would you describe any of the characters -- prisoners or guards -- as role models? If so, why?
Plenty of the characters are seen smoking in the movie. Why do you think the filmmakers included this in the movie?
Movie Details
- In theaters: October 19, 2001
- On DVD or streaming: March 5, 2002
- Cast: Robert Redford, James Gandolfini, Mark Ruffalo
- Director: Rod Lurie
- Studio: Dreamworks Pictures
- Genre: Action/Adventure
- Character Strengths: Courage, Teamwork
- Run time: 131 minutes
- MPAA rating: R
- MPAA explanation: language and violence
- Last updated: July 1, 2022
Our Editors Recommend
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The Shawshank Redemption
Gritty prison tale has positive messages, lots of profanity.
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Shutter Island
Twisty, disturbing Scorsese thriller too intense for most.
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The Green Mile
Compassionate movie, but has stereotypes, violence, cursing.
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