This Is Martin Bonner

This Is Martin Bonner 2013

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Plot Summary


Martin Bonner embarks on a significant journey after relocating from Maryland to Nevada, leaving behind the life he meticulously built over two decades, along with his two adult children. Now working as the volunteer coordinator for a non-profit organization, his mission is to assist prisoners in their daunting transition from incarceration to freedom. This role marks Martin’s first employment in two years, and he is quietly grappling with the challenges associated with having recently declared bankruptcy.

Simultaneously, we meet Travis Holloway, who is adjusting to life after serving twelve long years in prison. Released into a world that seems foreign, he quickly realizes that life in Reno poses numerous challenges, despite the support of his program sponsor, Steve Helms.

As the narratives of Martin and Travis entwine, the two men discover common ground, particularly in their unexpressed needs for encouragement and companionship. Their unexpected friendship flourishes, yet it faces a serious trial when Travis, in a moment of desperation to reconnect with his estranged daughter, betrays Martin’s trust. This act puts the foundation of their bond to the ultimate test, showcasing the complexity of human relationships and the struggle for redemption.

Timeline


Martin Moves to Nevada

Martin Bonner relocates from Maryland to Nevada, leaving behind a life he spent over two decades constructing. This transition marks a significant change as he steps into an entirely new environment away from his two adult children.

Nevada

Starting New Employment

After a two-year hiatus from work, Martin becomes the volunteer coordinator for a non-profit organization. His new role is focused on assisting inmates as they navigate the challenging transition from prison back to society.

Facing Financial Struggles

As Martin begins this new chapter, he grapples with the repercussions of having recently declared bankruptcy. These financial difficulties weigh heavily on him while he tries to adjust to his new job and life in Nevada.

Travis is Released from Prison

Travis Holloway completes a twelve-year prison sentence and begins the process of reintegrating into society. The world he returns to feels foreign and unwelcoming, presenting numerous hurdles he must overcome.

Reno

Support from Program Sponsor

Upon his release, Travis has the support of his program sponsor, Steve Helms, who guides him through the difficulties of life outside prison. Travis relies on Steve's guidance as he tries to navigate his new reality.

Martin and Travis Meet

As the story unfolds, Martin and Travis cross paths, both seeking connection in their respective journeys. They begin to develop a rapport, bonding over shared experiences and their struggles to find stability.

Building a Friendship

Despite their different backgrounds, a friendship begins to blossom between Martin and Travis. They find solace in each other's company as they support one another through ongoing personal challenges.

Travis’s Desire to Reconnect

As their friendship deepens, Travis reveals his desire to reconnect with his estranged daughter. This longing for familial connection drives him to take significant risks that may jeopardize his relationships.

Breach of Trust

In a moment of desperation, Travis betrays Martin's trust in an attempt to see his daughter. This unexpected turn of events leaves Martin feeling hurt and questioning the foundation of their friendship.

Testing the Friendship

The breach of trust creates a critical moment in their relationship, forcing both men to confront their vulnerabilities. The bond they’ve built is put to the test, showcasing the complexity of human connections.

Search for Redemption

As the stakes rise, both Martin and Travis must reflect on their own pasts and seek redemption. This journey is not only about reconnecting with each other but also about healing their own personal wounds.

Finding Common Ground

Ultimately, Martin and Travis discover common ground in their need for encouragement and companionship. This realization serves as a catalyst for their growth as individuals and as friends.

Characters


Martin Bonner

Martin is a thoughtful and reflective man who finds himself in uncharted territory after relocating to Nevada. He grapples with the loss of his former life and the challenges of starting over, particularly in his new role as a volunteer coordinator. His experience with bankruptcy adds complexity to his character, showcasing vulnerability and resilience.

👴 Aging 💔 Loss 🛠️ Redemption

Travis Holloway

Travis is a man recently released from prison, struggling to adapt to the outside world after twelve years of incarceration. His desperation to reconnect with his estranged daughter reflects his deep-seated need for redemption and acceptance. Travis's actions create moments of tension, revealing the fragility of trust and friendship.

👨‍⚖️ Ex-convict 🧑‍👧 Family 🤔 Struggle

Setting


Time period

The movie does not specify an exact time period, focusing instead on the contemporary struggles of the characters as they deal with personal challenges. The emphasis is on the present moments of their lives, especially regarding reintegration into society.

Location

Maryland, Nevada, Reno

The movie takes place in Maryland, where Martin Bonner started his life, and Nevada, specifically Reno, where he relocates. Reno is known for its vibrant nightlife and gaming industry, but it also represents a fresh start for several characters, framing their transitional journeys.

🏞️ Location 🌆 Urban

Themes


🤝

Friendship

The theme of friendship is central to the narrative, illustrating how two men from different backgrounds can find solace and support in each other. Their bond underscores the importance of companionship, particularly during challenging times of change and adaptation.

🔄

Redemption

Redemption is a recurring theme, as both Martin and Travis seek to reclaim aspects of their lives that they feel they have lost. Their journeys reflect the struggle to overcome past mistakes and the desire for a second chance, highlighting the complexities of personal growth.

🏠

Transition

The theme of transition is significant, as both main characters navigate major life changes—from prison to freedom and from routine life to new beginnings. Their experiences shed light on the difficulties and nuances of changing one's circumstances and the support needed during these times.

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