Slaughterhouse-Five

| 1972

Directed by: George Roy Hill

Movie poster for Slaughterhouse-Five (1972)

Main Plot

Slaughterhouse-Five follows the life of Billy Pilgrim, an optometrist who becomes "unstuck in time." The narrative shifts between different moments in his life, including his experiences as a soldier during World War II, his capture by German forces, and his time in a slaughterhouse in Dresden during the bombing. The story also explores his post-war life, where he struggles with the effects of war and his perceived alien abduction. As Billy travels through time, he reflects on the nature of free will, the inevitability of death, and the absurdity of human existence. The film intertwines themes of trauma, the cyclical nature of time, and the impact of war, presenting a surreal and poignant commentary on the human condition. Through its non-linear storytelling, Slaughterhouse-Five challenges conventional narrative structures, emphasizing the fragmented and chaotic nature of life.

Characters

  • Michael Sacks plays Billy Pilgrim, a time-traveling World War II soldier who becomes "unstuck in time," experiencing moments from his life non-linearly.
  • Ron Leibman played Paul Lazzaro, a vengeful soldier who vows to kill Billy Pilgrim, the protagonist, for a perceived betrayal during World War II.
  • Eugene Roche played Edgar Derby, a fellow POW who is executed for stealing a teapot, highlighting the absurdity and tragedy of war.

Ending Explained

In the ending of Slaughterhouse-Five, the narrative culminates in a profound exploration of time and free will. The protagonist, Billy Pilgrim, has been "unstuck in time," experiencing moments from his life non-linearly, including his time as a soldier during World War II and his abduction by aliens. The climax occurs as Billy witnesses the firebombing of Dresden, a pivotal event that shapes his understanding of war's brutality and the inevitability of death. As the story progresses, Billy's acceptance of his fate becomes evident. He embraces the Tralfamadorian philosophy that all moments exist simultaneously, which allows him to confront the trauma of war without being overwhelmed by it. In the final scenes, he speaks at a speech about his experiences, emphasizing the importance of recognizing the beauty in life despite its inherent suffering. The film concludes with a sense of resignation and acceptance. Billy's repeated phrase, "So it goes," encapsulates the idea that life is a series of moments, both joyful and tragic, that must be acknowledged without despair. This resolution connects to the overall narrative by highlighting the futility of trying to change the past and the necessity of finding peace within the chaos of existence.

George Roy Hill Comedy Drama Sci-Fi Michael Sacks Ron Leibman Eugene Roche