Always Shine

Always Shine

Year: 2016

Runtime: 85 min

Language: English

Director: Sophia Takal

Thriller

Two actresses, Rachel and Claire, journey to a remote Big Sur retreat hoping to recharge and reconnect. As the weekend progresses, unresolved tensions and a history of competition resurface, pushing their friendship to the breaking point. The serene setting becomes a backdrop for escalating psychological warfare as the women confront their insecurities and the fragile nature of their bond, ultimately questioning their sanity and sense of identity.

Warning: spoilers below!

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Timeline – Always Shine (2016)

Trace every key event in Always Shine (2016) with our detailed, chronological timeline. Perfect for unpacking nonlinear stories, spotting hidden connections, and understanding how each scene builds toward the film’s climax. Whether you're revisiting or decoding for the first time, this timeline gives you the full picture.

1

Breakthrough Celebration

Beth prepares to celebrate a notable milestone in her acting career. She has recently landed roles in thrilling films and commercial work that often involves nudity, leading her to plan a weekend getaway.

Weekend Big Sur
2

Journey to Big Sur

As Beth and Anna travel towards Big Sur, they share excitement about the upcoming trip. During the drive, Beth is recognized by an admirer, creating a moment of pride and further conversation between the two friends.

On the road
3

Magazine Recognition

Anna discovers that Beth is featured in the current 'Young Hollywood' magazine issue. This revelation leads to a heartfelt discussion where Anna expresses her frustrations regarding her recent breakup and her struggles within the industry.

Car
4

Flirting Gone Wrong

The friends stop at a local bar where Anna unsuccessfully attempts to flirt with an older man. His disinterest escalates when Beth steps away, prompting Anna to feel rejected and ultimately cry herself to sleep that night.

Local Bar
5

Hidden Talent

During an audition practice session, Anna shows significant talent, overshadowing Beth's abilities. The contrast between their skills becomes a source of tension as they hike through the woods, where Anna discovers Beth's previous knowledge of an audition opportunity for her.

Woods
6

Betrayal and Confrontation

Feeling betrayed, Anna confronts Beth about not sharing the casting opportunity. The argument escalates, intensifying the emotional strain between the two friends as they struggle with jealousy and insecurity.

Woods
7

Aftermath of the Argument

After a heated confrontation, Beth returns to the cottage and vents to her boyfriend about the conflict. She acknowledges Anna’s jealousy and admits to lying about sending her reel to an agent, causing further rifts in their friendship.

Cottage
8

Descent into Madness

Overhearing Beth's confessions angers Anna, leading to a violent confrontation. Their fight spills into the woods, amplifying the physical and emotional turmoil as Anna's rage brews.

Woods
9

Change of Identity

The next morning, Anna begins to mimic Beth's appearance and demeanor, seeking to embody her friend’s success. This transformation leads to mistaken identity from the bartender at the bar, resulting in unexpected attention.

Local Bar
10

Old Friend Returns

While spending time pretending to be Beth, Anna encounters Beth in a menacing confrontation. This reconvening of old friends spirals into panic as Anna reflects on their tumultuous relationship.

Club
11

Tragic Resolution

Anna finds herself once again retreating into the woods, haunted by memories of her rage-fueled clash with Beth. The atmosphere of dread heightens as Anna starts to grasp the implications of their fractured friendship.

Woods
12

Horrifying Discoveries

As dawn breaks, Anna returns to the cottage only to face a horrific scene. She encounters Beth's boyfriend alongside police officers who are retrieving a lifeless body from the woods, marking the tragic end of their friendship.

Morning Cottage

Last Updated: November 15, 2024 at 16:41

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Always Shine Summary

Read a complete plot summary of Always Shine, 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.

Always Shine Summary

Characters, Settings & Themes in Always Shine

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Characters, Settings & Themes in Always Shine

More About Always Shine

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