M*A*S*H Story Analysis: Plot Summary & Character Arcs
Deep dive into the narrative structure and emotional journey of M*A*S*H.
Quick Plot Summary: Released in 1970, M*A*S*H is a Comedy, Drama, War film directed by Robert Altman, written by Ring Lardner, Jr.. The narrative brings laughter through sharp writing and comedic timing, providing amusement while touching on deeper societal themes. It provides a scannable look at the movie's central conflict involving Donald Sutherland as Hawkeye Pierce.
Story Breakdown
The comedic structure relies on both situational humor and character-based comedy. One of the world's most acclaimed comedies, M*A*S*H focuses on three Korean War Army surgeons brilliantly brought to life by Donald Sutherland, Tom Skerritt and Elliott Gould. Though highly skilled and deeply dedicated, they adopt a hilarious, lunatic lifestyle as an antidote to the tragedies of their Mobile Army Surgical Hospital, and in the process infuriate Army bureaucrats. Robert Duvall, Gary Burghoff and Sally Kellerman co-star as a sanctimonious Major, an other-worldly Corporal, and a self-righteous yet lusty nurse. The production finds humor in relatable situations while maintaining narrative momentum. The jokes serve the story, with callbacks that reward attentive viewers.
Narrative Structure
- Opening Hook: M*A*S*H's opening establishes the comedic tone through Donald Sutherland as Hawkeye Pierce's interactions, introducing the central conflict with humor and character quirks that Robert Altman layers throughout.
- Character Arc: The main character shows growth throughout the story, though some supporting characters could have been more fully realized. Donald Sutherland's arc is present but occasionally predictable.
- Climax & Resolution: The comedic climax ties together the recurring threads, with Donald Sutherland's storyline wrapping up predictably but entertainingly.