Anything (2018) Characters, Setting & Themes Explained

The story takes place primarily in the Walsh residence, a family home that transforms from a warm, peaceful household into a terrifying haunted location. The house becomes a prison for the kidnapped Shannon Becker and serves as the stage for the dark rituals performed by Audrey and Henry Walsh.

Foreshadowing: The house's initial description as a warm home contrasts sharply with its later transformation into a site of horror.

• walsh residence
• haunted house
• setting
• location

The film is set in contemporary times, reflecting modern societal dynamics and psychological stresses. The story unfolds in the present day, showcasing how quickly a normal existence can unravel into chaos.

• contemporary
• modern
• time period
• present day

The movie explores how love can become destructive and obsessive. Audrey and Henry's misguided devotion leads them to commit horrifying acts in their attempt to resurrect their lost grandson, demonstrating how love can warp moral boundaries and drive people to desperate measures.

• destructive love
• obsession
• audrey walsh
• henry walsh
• love theme

Dark rituals and occult practices form a central element of the narrative. Audrey and Henry attempt to resurrect their dead grandson through sinister means, using a grimoire and involving fellow cultist Ian. The movie serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of meddling with supernatural forces without understanding the consequences.

Foreshadowing: Ian's knowledge of the grimoire is introduced as a glimmer of hope that ultimately leads to greater chaos.

• dark rituals
• occult
• grimoire
• summoning
• supernatural

Audrey Walsh is a deeply troubled woman consumed by her obsession with resurrecting her lost grandson. Her guilt over her daughter's death drives her down a dark path, leading her to participate in sinister rituals. Over time, her desperation and fragility become apparent as she battles haunting visions and the consequences of her actions.

• audrey walsh
• character
• motivation
• grief
• obsession

Henry Walsh is a physician who transforms from a caring husband into a sinister figure. Driven by obsession over loss and a flawed pursuit of control, he becomes willing to engage in dark rituals. His character arc showcases significant moral decline as he faces the consequences of his desperate choices.

• henry walsh
• character
• physician
• moral corruption

Shannon Becker is the kidnapped pregnant patient who embodies the consequences of the Walshes' misguided choices. She experiences profound fear and trauma while trapped in the Walsh residence, symbolizing innocence lost and the devastating impact of the couple's actions.

• shannon becker
• character
• kidnapped
• victim
• pregnant

Despair permeates the narrative as characters navigate grief and guilt. Audrey is haunted by memories of her daughter, while Shannon suffers terrifying visions. The theme emphasizes how unaddressed loss can manifest in haunting ways, transforming lives into nightmares.

• despair
• grief
• loss
• haunting
• emotional turmoil

Ian is a fellow cultist who becomes integral to the dark rituals that spiral out of control. His knowledge of the grimoire provides Audrey and Henry with a path toward their goal, but his involvement ultimately leads to greater chaos, illustrating the dangers of dabbling in the occult.

• ian
• cultist
• grimoire
• rituals

The Walsh residence serves as both home and prison, its walls echoing with the haunting cries of tormented souls. Once known for its warm atmosphere, it becomes a chilling backdrop that reflects the characters' descent into darkness, physically manifesting their psychological horror.

Foreshadowing: The contrast between the house's original warmth and its later transformation mirrors the characters' moral decline.

• walsh house
• haunted
• setting
• atmosphere