A Shock to the System

A Shock to the System

Year: 1990

Runtime: 88 min

Language: English

Director: Jan Egleson

ThrillerComedyCrime

Having reached what he believed was the pinnacle of his career, corporate executive Graham Marshall finds himself abruptly falling from grace. Stripped of his position and facing unexpected personal challenges, he uncovers a disturbing truth about the forces that undermined him. Determined to reclaim his standing and settle the score, Graham embarks on a humorous and vengeful quest to even the playing field.

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Timeline & Setting – A Shock to the System (1990)

Explore the full timeline and setting of A Shock to the System (1990). Follow every major event in chronological order and see how the environment shapes the story, characters, and dramatic tension.

Time period

The story unfolds in contemporary times, reflecting the social norms and corporate culture of a fast-paced urban lifestyle. The corporate ladder, ambition, and personal vendettas provided a timely exploration of moral ambiguity in the modern workplace.

Location

New York City, Los Angeles

The movie primarily takes place in New York City, known for its bustling streets and vibrant atmosphere. The subway system serves as a dark backdrop for critical moments, amplifying themes of isolation and despair. Los Angeles is also mentioned as a potential new location for Graham, symbolizing his aspirations and the lure of a fresh start.

🌆 City 🌄 Urban

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 23:09

Main Characters – A Shock to the System (1990)

Meet the key characters of A Shock to the System (1990), with detailed profiles, motivations, and roles in the plot. Understand their emotional journeys and what they reveal about the film’s deeper themes.

Graham Marshall

Graham Marshall is a dedicated advertising executive who experiences a profound transformation after a series of personal and professional setbacks. Initially portrayed as ambitious yet relatable, his character descends into a darker persona as he seeks revenge on those he believes have wronged him. His actions illustrate the destructive nature of suppressed rage and ambition gone awry.

🧔 Ambitious 💔 Tragic 🔥 Vengeful

Leslie

Leslie, Graham's wife, embodies the archetype of a self-centered socialite, often prioritizing appearances over emotional support. Her constant criticisms of Graham reflect her own insecurities and dissatisfaction, ultimately driving him further away and contributing to his unraveling. Her character serves as a catalyst for Graham's transformation and subsequent actions.

💅 Self-centered ⚡ Critical 🌀 Complex

Bob Benham

Bob Benham is Graham's protégé who embodies the qualities of entitlement and arrogance. His ascent to a position Graham coveted becomes the focal point of Graham's jealousy and despair. Bob's character represents the perceived unfairness of corporate hierarchies and serves as a target for Graham's vengeance.

📈 Arrogant 🚶‍♂️ Entitled 💼 Corporate

Stella Anderson

Stella is a coworker who harbors feelings for Graham and becomes entangled in his dangerous schemes. Her character adds complexity to the narrative, as she begins to question Graham's morals and intentions. Stella's transformation from an admirer to a suspect illustrates the film's themes of manipulation and deceit.

❤️ Admirer 🚨 Skeptical 🔍 Observant

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 23:09

Major Themes – A Shock to the System (1990)

Explore the central themes of A Shock to the System (1990), from psychological, social, and emotional dimensions to philosophical messages. Understand what the film is really saying beneath the surface.

⚖️ Justice

The theme of justice permeates the film as Graham Marshall seeks revenge on those he perceives to have wronged him. His actions raise questions about the morality of his path to vindication and the consequences of taking the law into one's own hands. The blurred lines between right and wrong create a tense atmosphere, leading to a chilling conclusion.

🖤 Isolation

Isolation is a significant theme, illustrated by Graham's lonely existence both at work and at home. His disconnection from his wife and colleagues exacerbates his feelings of betrayal and frustration, pushing him toward drastic actions. The film highlights the psychological impact of loneliness in a crowded city.

💼 Ambition

Ambition drives Graham's character, reflecting the cutthroat nature of corporate careers. His relentless pursuit of power and recognition ultimately leads to his moral decay. The darker side of ambition is portrayed through his transformations and the lengths he will go to reclaim his status after being overlooked.

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 23:09

Unlock the Full Story of A Shock to the System

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A Shock to the System Summary

Read a complete plot summary of A Shock to the System, 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.

A Shock to the System Summary

A Shock to the System Timeline

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

A Shock to the System Timeline

More About A Shock to the System

Visit What's After the Movie to explore more about A Shock to the System: 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 A Shock to the System

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