Altered States

Altered States

Year: 1980

Runtime: 102 min

Language: English

Sci-FiThrillerHorror

Haunted by a mysterious past, George Gallagher finds his life spiraling out of control when he involuntarily begins to teleport to different locations while sleeping. As a fugitive desperately trying to evade capture, he struggles to understand the cause of these erratic disappearances, battling both his pursuers and the disintegration of his sanity. He must uncover the truth behind his condition before it completely overwhelms him.

Warning: spoilers below!

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Timeline & Setting – Altered States (1980)

Explore the full timeline and setting of Altered States (1980). Follow every major event in chronological order and see how the environment shapes the story, characters, and dramatic tension.

Time period

The movie explores themes of human consciousness and psychological phenomena across various time periods. Edward Jessup's journey represents both contemporary psychological studies and echoes of early human existence as he delves into primal visions. This exploration connects the past of mankind with modern scientific inquiry, blurring the lines between history and the present.

Location

Hinchi hill country, Mexico, United States

The Hinchi hill country in Mexico is known for its mystical landscapes adorned with mushroom-shaped rocks, and it serves as a significant backdrop for the spiritual rituals of the Hinchi tribe. The region holds deep cultural importance, particularly related to the tribe's practices involving collective hallucinations. In contrast, the United States serves as the contrasting modern environment where Edward Jessup's scientific pursuits take place, reflecting the clash of traditional and contemporary worlds.

🇲🇽 Mexico 🇺🇸 United States 🌄 Natural Landscapes 🏞️ Cultural Sites

Last Updated: October 23, 2024 at 08:46

Main Characters – Altered States (1980)

Meet the key characters of Altered States (1980), with detailed profiles, motivations, and roles in the plot. Understand their emotional journeys and what they reveal about the film’s deeper themes.

Edward Jessup (William Hurt)

Edward Jessup is a brilliant yet troubled psychologist whose fascination with schizophrenia leads him on a perilous path of self-discovery. His intellectual curiosity drives him to experiment with consciousness-altering substances, often to the detriment of his mental health. Throughout the film, Edward evolves from a seeker of knowledge to a man on the brink of losing his humanity.

🧠 Psychologist 🥴 Experimenter 🌀 Seeker of Knowledge

Emily

Emily is a strong, intelligent character who serves as Edward's partner and grounding influence. Her deep understanding and unwavering support highlight the emotional stakes of Edward's experiments. As the film progresses, her love becomes pivotal in navigating Edward's chaotic transformations, embodying resilience and compassion.

❤️ Supportive 😊 Intelligent 🎓 Partner

Last Updated: October 23, 2024 at 08:46

Major Themes – Altered States (1980)

Explore the central themes of Altered States (1980), from psychological, social, and emotional dimensions to philosophical messages. Understand what the film is really saying beneath the surface.

🌀 Consciousness Exploration

The film delves deeply into the nature of human consciousness and the subconscious mind. Through Edward's experimental journey, it highlights the dialogue between psychological science and spiritual exploration. His grappling with sensory deprivation and mystical substances underscores the allure and danger of transcending ordinary perception.

💔 Love and Connection

At its core, the movie examines the relationship between Edward and Emily, illustrating how love can act as both a tether and a lifeline amidst chaos. Their bond is tested through Edward's dangerous pursuits, yet it ultimately proves to be the catalyst for his return to humanity. This theme emphasizes the intertwining of love and self-discovery.

Last Updated: October 23, 2024 at 08:46

Unlock the Full Story of Altered States

Don't stop at just watching — explore Altered States 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 Altered States is all about. Plus, discover what's next after the movie.

Altered States Summary

Read a complete plot summary of Altered States, 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.

Altered States Summary

Altered States Timeline

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

Altered States Timeline

More About Altered States

Visit What's After the Movie to explore more about Altered States: 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 Altered States

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