The Projectionist

The Projectionist

Year: 2019

Runtime: 94 mins

Language: Spanish

Director: José María Cabral

ThrillerMysteryDrama

A solitary projectionist finds comfort and connection with a woman he observes in a film reel. When the reel is lost, he embarks on a journey across the Dominican Republic, traveling to remote and impoverished areas in a desperate search to find her. His quest takes him through challenging landscapes and introduces him to the lives of those living there.

Warning: spoilers below!

Haven’t seen The Projectionist yet? This summary contains major spoilers. Bookmark the page, watch the movie, and come back for the full breakdown. If you're ready, scroll on and relive the story!

Timeline & Setting – The Projectionist (2019)

Explore the full timeline and setting of The Projectionist (2019). Follow every major event in chronological order and see how the environment shapes the story, characters, and dramatic tension.

Time period

1960s

The movie takes place during the 1960s, a period marked by social change, technological advancement, and cultural shifts in America. The era saw Hollywood producing both classic films and experiments in storytelling, fitting with the movie's nostalgic and cinematic themes.

Location

Midtown Manhattan, Midtown Theater

The Midtown Theater is located in the bustling Midtown Manhattan, an iconic area known for its theaters, skyscrapers, and vibrant city life. The theater serves as a historic venue in New York City, hosting films and performances, reflecting the entertainment hub of the city.

🏙️ Urban 🎭 Theater 🎬 Cinema

Last Updated: August 19, 2025 at 04:41

Main Characters – The Projectionist (2019)

Meet the key characters of The Projectionist (2019), with detailed profiles, motivations, and roles in the plot. Understand their emotional journeys and what they reveal about the film’s deeper themes.

Chuck McCann as Projectionist / Imaginary Captain Flash

Chuck is a bored projectionist who escapes his monotonous job by imagining himself as a heroic superhero, Captain Flash. His fantasies reveal a desire for excitement, adventure, and recognition, contrasting his dull daily routine.

🎭 Dreamer 🦸‍♂️ Heroic 🎥 Film Enthusiast

Renaldi

Renaldi is the irritable theater manager who disrespects his employees, representing authority and scorn. His interaction with Chuck underscores the tension between routine work and personal aspirations.

🎩 Authority 😠 Stern 🎬 Theater Manager

The Girl / The Daughter

The Girl is a symbol of beauty and intrigue in Chuck’s fantasies, later revealed as a skilled karate fighter. She embodies the idealized romantic or adventurous figure, inspiring Chuck's imagination and heroism.

💃 Femme Fatale 🥋 Fighter ✨ Inspiration

Last Updated: August 19, 2025 at 04:41

Major Themes – The Projectionist (2019)

Explore the central themes of The Projectionist (2019), from psychological, social, and emotional dimensions to philosophical messages. Understand what the film is really saying beneath the surface.

🎥 Nostalgia

The film explores the theme of nostalgia through Chuck McCann's character, who fantasizes about classic movie stars and film genres. It highlights a longing for the golden age of cinema and the allure of Hollywood's mythic characters.

🧠 Escapism

The movie emphasizes escapism as Chuck daydreams about superhero adventures and musical fantasies to escape his mundane reality. The fantastical elements allow characters and viewers to delve into imaginative worlds beyond the theater.

Last Updated: August 19, 2025 at 04:41

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Unlock the Full Story of The Projectionist

Don't stop at just watching — explore The Projectionist in full detail. From the complete plot summary and scene-by-scene timeline to character breakdowns, thematic analysis, and a deep dive into the ending — every page helps you truly understand what The Projectionist is all about. Plus, discover what's next after the movie.

The Projectionist Summary

Read a complete plot summary of The Projectionist, including all key story points, character arcs, and turning points. This in-depth recap is ideal for understanding the narrative structure or reviewing what happened in the movie.

The Projectionist Summary

The Projectionist Timeline

Track the full timeline of The Projectionist with every major event arranged chronologically. Perfect for decoding non-linear storytelling, flashbacks, or parallel narratives with a clear scene-by-scene breakdown.

The Projectionist Timeline

The Projectionist Spoiler-Free Summary

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The Projectionist Spoiler-Free Summary

More About The Projectionist

Visit What's After the Movie to explore more about The Projectionist: box office results, cast and crew info, production details, post-credit scenes, and external links — all in one place for movie fans and researchers.

More About The Projectionist

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