Always Shine

Always Shine

Year: 2016

Runtime: 85 min

Language: English

Director: Sophia Takal

Thriller

In this gripping thriller, two actresses (Mackenzie Davis & Caitlin FitzGerald) escape Los Angeles for a Big Sur retreat, seeking solace and renewal. But as the weekend wears on, long-dormant insecurities and rivalries boil over, blurring the lines between friendship and madness, threatening to consume their very sense of self.

Warning: spoilers below!

Haven’t seen Always Shine 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 – Always Shine (2016)
Explore the full timeline and setting of Always Shine (2016). Follow every major event in chronological order and see how the environment shapes the story, characters, and dramatic tension.

Time period

The events of the film take place in a contemporary setting, reflecting modern challenges faced by aspiring actors and the pressures of the film industry. Issues of friendship, jealousy, and ambition are portrayed within this present-day context.

Location

Big Sur

Big Sur is a rugged stretch of California’s central coast known for its stunning coastal cliffs, dense forests, and breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean. It attracts artists and filmmakers for its picturesque landscapes, making it a popular retreat for creative minds. This beautiful, tranquil environment contrasts sharply with the emotional turmoil of the characters.

🌲 Nature 🎭 Film Industry

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 21:51

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

Beth (Caitlin FitzGerald)

Beth is an ambitious actress on the brink of success, yet her journey is fraught with tension and moral dilemmas. Her achievements and arrogance create rifts with her best friend, Anna. Despite her rising career, her inability to communicate and empathize reveals a fragile character overshadowed by her ambitions.

🎭 Actress 🌟 Ambitious 😔 Conflict

Anna (Mackenzie Davis)

Anna is a struggling actress grappling with feelings of inadequacy and jealousy towards her friend Beth. Her emotional journey is marked by desperation as she finds herself mimicking Beth's persona. Her character showcases the vulnerability and raw intensity of someone striving to find their place in a competitive industry.

🎬 Aspiring 😢 Jealousy 🔥 Vulnerable

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 21:51

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

🎭 Ambition

Ambition drives both Beth and Anna as they navigate the competitive landscape of the film industry. Beth's aspirations lead her to success, while Anna grapples with her own ambitions amid rising jealousy. This theme highlights the personal costs of pursuing one's dreams and the impact it has on friendships.

💔 Jealousy

Jealousy takes center stage in the relationship between Beth and Anna. As Beth's career begins to take off, Anna's feelings of inadequacy and betrayal sway their friendship. This theme explores the destructive nature of jealousy and how it can spiral into darker outcomes.

🌲 Isolation

The natural setting of Big Sur serves as a backdrop for the isolation felt by both characters. Their emotional struggles are mirrored in the secluded woods, which highlight their personal conflicts and the growing divide in their friendship. Isolation amplifies the tension leading to tragic consequences.

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 21:51

Similar Movies to Always Shine
Discover movies like Always Shine that share similar genres, themes, and storytelling elements. Whether you’re drawn to the atmosphere, character arcs, or plot structure, these curated recommendations will help you explore more films you’ll love.