Chattahoochee (film)

Chattahoochee (film)

Chattahoochee is a 1989 American drama film directed by Mick Jackson and written by James Hicks. The film stars Gary Oldman, Dennis Hopper, and Frances McDormand. It is based on the true story of Chris Calhoun, a Korean War veteran who becomes an advocate for mental health reform after being institutionalized in the Chattahoochee State Hospital in Florida.

Plot

The film follows the story of Emmett Foley (played by Gary Oldman), a decorated Korean War hero who suffers from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). After a failed suicide attempt, Emmett is committed to the Chattahoochee State Hospital, where he witnesses the inhumane treatment of patients. Determined to bring about change, Emmett begins documenting the abuses and works to expose the conditions within the hospital.

Cast

• Gary Oldman as Emmett Foley
• Dennis Hopper as Walker Benson
• Frances McDormand as Mae Foley
• Pamela Reed as Earlene
• Ned Beatty as Dr. Harwood
• M. Emmet Walsh as Morris

Production

The film was shot on location in Florida and Georgia. The screenplay was inspired by the real-life experiences of Chris Calhoun, who became a prominent figure in the fight for mental health reform in the United States.

Reception

Chattahoochee received mixed reviews from critics. While the performances of Gary Oldman and Dennis Hopper were widely praised, some critics felt that the film's portrayal of mental health issues was overly dramatized. Despite this, the film has been noted for bringing attention to the conditions in mental health institutions and the need for reform.

Themes

The film explores themes of mental illness, institutional abuse, and the struggle for human rights. It highlights the challenges faced by veterans suffering from PTSD and the importance of advocacy in bringing about social change.

See also

• Mental health in the United States
• Post-traumatic stress disorder
• Korean War
• Mental health reform