September Dawn 2007
Directed by
Christopher Cain
Made by
Black Diamond Pictures
Plot Summary
Discover the intricate plot of September Dawn (2007). From unexpected twists to emotional highs and lows, this detailed summary breaks down every moment to give you a deeper understanding of the film’s story.
In 1857, as a wagon train departing from Arkansas and a fervent group of Mormons approached Cedar City, Utah, they were destined for a tragic encounter that would change lives forever. Amidst this tension, two young souls found themselves irresistibly drawn to one another. The moment Jonathan Samuelson laid his eyes on the captivating Emily Hudson, he felt an instant connection. Likewise, Emily was enchanted by Jonathan, a kindhearted young Mormon with a remarkable affinity for horses.
However, their blossoming romance faced insurmountable obstacles, primarily due to Jonathan’s father, Jacob Samuelson, who believed the Gentile settlers posed a threat to their community. Driven by fear, Jacob instructed Jonathan to infiltrate the settlers and sought counsel from the church elders. His paranoia escalated when he claimed to receive divine confirmation of his worst fears, compelling him to send a horrifying directive to John D. Lee, the adopted son of Brigham Young, instructing him to annihilate everyone in the wagon train, sparing only the youngest.
In a desperate bid to avert this impending massacre, Jonathan turned against his church’s teachings. He attempted to warn both the settlers and their leader, Captain Fancher, of the looming danger. Unfortunately, he was thwarted by his father’s imprisonment, helplessly watching as his younger brother, Micha, was swept up in the fanaticism and bloodshed that ensued.
Finally breaking free from his restraints, Jonathan sprinted towards the site of the unfolding horror, only to be met by an unimaginable scene filled with grief and despair. Haunted by his love for Emily, Jonathan was forced into a heart-rending decision—would he choose love, even in the face of such death, or succumb to the fate that loomed over them all?
Timeline
Track the key events of September Dawn (2007) with a comprehensive timeline. Perfect for understanding the sequence of major plot points, this feature offers clarity on how the story unfolds.
The Wagon Train Sets Off
In 1857, a wagon train departs from Arkansas, filled with settlers headed toward their new future. Unbeknownst to them, their journey will lead them to Cedar City, Utah, where danger awaits.
The Arrival of the Mormons
As the wagon train approaches Cedar City, a fervent group of Mormons is also making their way to the same location. Tensions begin to mount as the two groups come ever closer.
Jonathan and Emily Meet
Jonathan Samuelson spots Emily Hudson, and an instant connection forms between them. Their chemistry is undeniable, and this moment marks the beginning of a romantic bond that will be tragically tested.
Jacob's Distrust
Jonathan's father, Jacob Samuelson, becomes increasingly paranoid about the Gentile settlers. He believes they pose a threat to the Mormon community, leading him to take drastic actions to protect his people.
Divine Confirmation
Jacob claims to receive a revelation from God confirming his fears about the wagon train. This belief drives him to instruct John D. Lee to carry out a horrific mission to eliminate the settlers, sparing only the youngest.
Jonathan's Inner Conflict
Struggling with his father's fanaticism, Jonathan begins to realize the grave implications of Jacob's orders. His love for Emily clashes with his dedication to his family and faith, creating a deep internal conflict.
The Attempt to Warn
In a desperate attempt to save the settlers, Jonathan attempts to warn Captain Fancher of the impending danger. However, his efforts are thwarted when Jacob imprisons him, preventing him from stopping the tragedy.
Micha's Involvement
Jonathan's younger brother, Micha, becomes caught up in the fervor surrounding the impending attack on the wagon train. This creates additional emotional turmoil for Jonathan, as he fears for Micha's safety and his alignment with their father's beliefs.
The Massacre Unfolds
As the horrifying attack begins, Jonathan manages to break free from his father's restraints. He races towards the site, only to be met with chaos and devastation as the massacre unfolds before his eyes.
A Heartbreaking Choice
Amidst the wreckage and loss, Jonathan is faced with an agonizing decision. He is torn between his love for Emily and the horrific fate that looms over them and their families, burdened by choices that will scar their lives forever.
Characters
Meet the characters that bring September Dawn (2007) to life. Dive into detailed profiles of the cast and their roles, exploring their motivations, relationships, and arcs within the story.
Jonathan Samuelson (Jon Voight)
Jonathan is portrayed as a kindhearted young man caught in a turbulent world between his duty to his family and his love for Emily. He grapples with the teachings of his faith versus his desire to protect the innocent, showcasing profound internal conflict and courage.
Emily Hudson (Tamara Hope)
Emily is a strong, spirited woman who finds herself drawn to Jonathan in a time of chaos. Her character embodies love and resilience, serving as a beacon of hope against the backdrop of violence and tragedy, and she represents the innocence that is at risk.
Jacob Samuelson
Jacob, Jonathan's father, is driven by fear and paranoia regarding the outsiders. His character serves as an antagonist whose misguided beliefs lead to tragic consequences and reflect the broader conflicts within his community.
Setting
Uncover the settings of September Dawn (2007), from iconic locations to the time period that shapes its world. See how these elements add depth and context to the movie’s narrative.
Time period
1857
The year 1857 was marked by significant social and religious tensions in the United States, particularly in the context of the Mormon migration westward. This period saw conflicts arise between settlers and established religious communities, leading to tragedies driven by fear and dogma.
Location
Cedar City, Utah
Cedar City, located in Utah, is a small city known for its beautiful landscapes and historical significance to the Mormon community. In the 1850s, it was a site of tension and conflict as immigrant settlers clashed with local religious groups, setting the stage for dramatic events that would unfold.
Themes
Explore the core themes of September Dawn (2007). From its commentary on social issues to its emotional undertones, delve into the deeper messages woven into the film’s story.
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Sacrifice
The theme of sacrifice permeates the narrative as Jonathan struggles between his loyalty to his family and his love for Emily. His ultimate decision to abandon his father's directives highlights the extreme personal costs of devotion and love amidst chaos and violence.
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Conflict
Conflict is a central theme in 'September Dawn', representing both external battles between groups and internal struggles within Jonathan. The clash between settlers and the Mormons not only leads to physical violence but also challenges the characters' beliefs and moral compass.
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Forbidden Love
As Jonathan and Emily's love blossoms in the face of societal and familial disapproval, the theme of forbidden love emerges prominently. Their relationship becomes a symbol of hope and resilience, overshadowed by the tragedy surrounding them and the insurmountable odds they must face.
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