Above and Below

Above and Below

Year: 2016

Runtime: 118 min

Language: English

Director: Nicolas Steiner

AdventureDramaMysteryFamilyDocumentary

In the shadows of American society, a diverse cast of characters defies convention, navigating uncharted territories below and beyond. From the depths of Las Vegas' flood channels to a California desert bunker and even the threshold between Mars and Earth, their stories unfold as they confront perilous circumstances and unexpected connections.

Warning: spoilers below!

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Timeline & Setting – Above and Below (2016)
Explore the full timeline and setting of Above and Below (2016). Follow every major event in chronological order and see how the environment shapes the story, characters, and dramatic tension.

Time period

Contemporary

The movie takes place in contemporary times, reflecting modern-day adventures intertwined with ancient myths. It explores the implications of rediscovering lost histories and the dangers of seeking knowledge that was meant to be buried. This juxtaposition of past and present heightens the sense of urgency and peril felt by the characters.

Location

Iran, Paris, France, Catacombs

The movie traverses multiple locations, starting in Iran where the quest for a hidden catacomb begins, and moving to Paris, home to the famed alchemist Nicolas Flamel. The Parisian catacombs serve as a significant setting, known for their labyrinthine tunnels filled with historical remains and legends. These eerie underground passages symbolize both a physical and metaphysical journey, leading the characters into the depths of their own fears.

🏛️ Historical 🌍 Geographic ⚰️ Cryptic

Last Updated: December 24, 2024 at 10:02

Main Characters – Above and Below (2016)
Meet the key characters of Above and Below (2016), with detailed profiles, motivations, and roles in the plot. Understand their emotional journeys and what they reveal about the film’s deeper themes.

Scarlet Marlowe

Scarlet is a determined and fearless archaeologist driven by a quest to uncover her father's legacy and the Philosopher's Stone. Despite her brashness and ambition, her journey reveals deep-seated fears and guilt regarding her father's suicide. Her character embodies the complexities of seeking knowledge and the personal demons that accompany such a pursuit.

🔦 Archeologist 💔 Legacy 🚺 Protagonist

Reza

Reza is a cautious yet loyal ally who aids Scarlet in her dangerous quest. His deep concern for his family's safety illustrates the personal stakes of their adventure. Although he is initially drawn into Scarlet's mission, his apprehension highlights the risks involved in venturing into unknown territories.

🛡️ Protector 🚶‍♂️ Guide ⚠️ Caution

Benjy

Benjy serves as Scarlet's cameraman and voice of reason, often questioning her reckless decisions. His character provides emotional depth, showcasing the claustrophobia and horror of their journey. He grapples with his own feelings and ultimately becomes a tragic figure within the narrative.

🎥 Cameraman ⚖️ Rationality 😢 Tragedy

Last Updated: December 24, 2024 at 10:02

Major Themes – Above and Below (2016)
Explore the central themes of Above and Below (2016), from psychological, social, and emotional dimensions to philosophical messages. Understand what the film is really saying beneath the surface.

🔍 Truth-seeking

The primary theme revolves around the relentless pursuit of truth, as embodied by Scarlet Marlowe's quest for the Philosopher's Stone. This drive leads her into dangerous situations, forcing her to confront her past and family legacy. Ultimately, the narrative raises questions about the cost of knowledge and the truths we uncover about ourselves along the way.

😱 Fear and Guilt

Fear manifests in various forms throughout the film, as the characters face their own personal demons while exploring the catacombs. The journey into the underground realm serves as a metaphor for confronting guilt; each character is haunted by their past mistakes, leading to intense moments of horror. This theme highlights the psychological struggle between facing one's fears and succumbing to them.

🌌 Life and Death

The film delves into the concepts of life, death, and the thin veneer separating them, especially through the allegorical use of the catacombs. With each confrontation, characters grapple with their mortality and the legacies they leave behind. This exploration raises existential questions about what it means to truly live, especially when faced with the specter of death.

Last Updated: December 24, 2024 at 10:02

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