Christine

Christine

Year: 1983

Runtime: 110 min

Language: English

Director: John Carpenter

Horror

A shy and introverted teenager's life spirals out of control after he buys a classic car. As he becomes increasingly obsessed with the vehicle, his personality undergoes a disturbing transformation, fueled by the car's mysterious and sinister power. The line between the boy and the machine blurs in a chilling story of obsession, possession, and the dark side of desire.

Warning: spoilers below!

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Timeline & Setting – Christine (1983)

Explore the full timeline and setting of Christine (1983). Follow every major event in chronological order and see how the environment shapes the story, characters, and dramatic tension.

Time period

1958, 1978

The film oscillates between 1958 and 1978, reflecting significant cultural changes through these decades. The 1950s in America were characterized by post-war prosperity and the rise of the automobile industry, while the late 1970s brought about a more rebellious youth culture, influenced by music, fashion, and shifting social dynamics.

Location

Detroit, Northern California

Detroit is known as the motor city, historically significant for its automobile manufacturing during the mid-20th century, particularly with the iconic Plymouth Fury. Northern California offers a contrasting suburban landscape, framing the personal struggles of its inhabitants amidst a backdrop of familial relationships and teenage challenges.

🏙️ City 🚗 Automotive

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 20:09

Main Characters – Christine (1983)

Meet the key characters of Christine (1983), with detailed profiles, motivations, and roles in the plot. Understand their emotional journeys and what they reveal about the film’s deeper themes.

Arnie Cunningham (Keith Gordon)

Arnie is a timid teenager whose character undergoes a dramatic transformation throughout the film. Initially a target for bullies, he evolves into a more confident, yet obsessive individual through his connection with Christine. This change, while empowering, leads him down a perilous and ultimately tragic path.

🚗 Teenager 👓 Transformation 💔 Obsession

Dennis Guilder (John Stockwell)

Dennis is Arnie's protective best friend, showcasing loyalty and concern as he witnesses Arnie's disturbing change. A football player, he represents the typical high school athlete, yet his awareness of Arnie's emotional struggles reveals his deeper character, emphasizing the struggles of friendship in turbulent times.

🏈 Best Friend 🛡️ Protector 🎓 High School

Leigh Cabot

Leigh is the new girl in town who becomes Arnie's love interest, inadvertently drawing the attention of Christine's jealousy. Her discomfort around the car highlights the unsettling presence Christine holds, becoming a victim of the danger that surrounds Arnie's obsession.

💖 Love Interest 😟 Distress 🚗 Victim

Buddy Repperton

Buddy is the primary antagonist who embodies the bullying and cruelty that Arnie faces at school. His relentless taunts and eventual acts of vandalism drive Arnie further into Christine’s dark allure, showcasing the impact of antagonistic forces in shaping one’s destiny.

😡 Bully 🔪 Antagonist 😈 Villain

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 20:09

Major Themes – Christine (1983)

Explore the central themes of Christine (1983), from psychological, social, and emotional dimensions to philosophical messages. Understand what the film is really saying beneath the surface.

🛠️ Obsession

The theme of obsession is pervasive throughout the film, as Arnie becomes increasingly fixated on restoring Christine. His emotional attachment to the car highlights how obsession can lead to destructive behavior, not only isolating him from friends and family but also transforming his identity in alarming ways.

⚔️ Revenge

Revenge plays a critical role in the narrative as Christine punishes those who wronged Arnie. This theme demonstrates the darker impulses that can arise from bullying and humiliation, turning the once-timid Arnie into an agent of terror through his supernatural car.

👥 Friendship

The shifting dynamics of friendship are crucial as Dennis grapples with Arnie's transformation. The strong bond they share illustrates the challenges of loyalty and support, especially when one friend becomes consumed by an obsession that threatens their relationship and safety.

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 20:09

Unlock the Full Story of Christine

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

Christine Summary

Read a complete plot summary of Christine, 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.

Christine Summary

Christine Timeline

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

Christine Timeline

More About Christine

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

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