Chronicle

Chronicle

Year: 2012

Runtime: 84 min

Language: English

Director: Josh Trank

Budget: $12M

ActionSci-FiDramaThrillerHorror

After discovering a strange object, three friends gain telekinetic abilities. Initially using their powers for fun and personal gain, they soon find themselves dealing with increasingly complex and dangerous situations. As their abilities grow, so do the risks, and the group must confront the consequences of their newfound powers and the potential for them to be misused, leading to a thrilling and suspenseful exploration of adolescence and responsibility.

Warning: spoilers below!

Haven’t seen Chronicle 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 – Chronicle (2012)

Trace every key event in Chronicle (2012) 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

Introduction to Andrew's Life

Andrew Detmer, a high school student in Seattle, begins documenting his life through video recordings. His home life is challenging, as he deals with his mother's terminal cancer and his father's alcoholism, which subjects him to constant emotional abuse.

Seattle
2

Invitation to the Rave

In an effort to find a sense of belonging, Andrew's cousin Matt invites him to attend a rave. Despite his hopes for connection, the event ends poorly, and Andrew is left feeling disheartened after filming the chaotic scene and facing confrontations from others.

3

Discovery of the Crystal

While outside after the rave, Andrew meets Steve, the popular quarterback, who encourages him to explore a mysterious hole in the woods. Inside, they uncover a glowing blue crystal that reacts to their presence, inflicting pain and causing alarming nosebleeds.

Woods
4

Emergence of Telekinetic Powers

A few weeks later, Andrew and his friends demonstrate their newfound telekinetic abilities, moving objects with their minds. They quickly realize that using these powers excessively leads to painful consequences, like nosebleeds, but the thrill draws them closer together.

5

Sealing of the Hole

Upon returning to the site of their discovery, the trio finds it sealed off due to safety concerns. Matt theorizes that their powers are like muscles, growing stronger with use, which leads them to engage in harmless pranks to test their limits.

Woods
6

Flight and Aspirations

As their powers evolve, the boys discover they can fly, igniting dreams of adventure after graduation. Andrew expresses a desire to visit Tibet, a place he believes embodies tranquility, while the dynamics among the friends begin to shift with growing tensions.

Tibet
7

School Talent Show

Encouraged by Steve, Andrew participates in a school talent show, where he presents an impressive array of magic tricks. His moment in the spotlight comes crashing down shortly after when he suffers an embarrassing incident involving a classmate, Monica.

School
8

Emotional Downward Spiral

Andrew's emotional state deteriorates following a violent confrontation with his abusive father. His increasing aggression escalates into dangerous outbursts that injure both Matt and Steve, revealing a fracture in their friendship.

9

Tragedy Strikes

During a fierce storm, tragedy unfolds when Steve tries to calm an irate Andrew but is struck fatally by lightning. This catastrophic event sends Andrew into further emotional chaos, leading to a confrontation at Steve's funeral where tensions rise between the remaining friends.

Funeral
10

Escalation of Violence

With their friendship hanging by a thread, Andrew spirals deeper into darkness after his mother's death. His reckless actions lead to a gas station explosion, resulting in severe injuries and legal complications, as he struggles to cope with his grief and power.

Gas Station
11

Confrontation and Fury

After being hospitalized, Andrew awakens to his father's wrath, prompting him to utilize his abilities to break free. He is soon seen floating outside the hospital, unleashing his fury across the city as he struggles with his mounting rage and sense of loss.

Hospital
12

Matt's Desperation

Concerned for Andrew and evaluating the chaos caused by his powers, Matt rushes to confront him in the midst of mayhem. Their encounter spirals out of control, leading Matt to realize that he must make a grave decision for the sake of safety.

City
13

Tragic Conclusion

In a heartbreaking turn of events, Matt is left with no choice but to kill Andrew during their confrontation. This act of desperation marks a tragic end to their friendship and leads to profound feelings of guilt and sorrow for Matt.

14

Journey to Tibet

Following the chaos, Matt finds solace by journeying to Tibet, carrying Andrew's camera as a remembrance. Upon arrival, he reflects on their experiences while addressing Andrew through the lens, vowing to channel their powers for good in honor of their friendship.

Tibet
15

A Promise to Andrew

As Matt gazes at the serene Tibetan landscape, he makes a heartfelt promise to Andrew, affirming his commitment to uncover the truth behind their abilities. The final scene captures Matt softly stating, 'You made it,' symbolizing hope amidst tragedy.

Tibetan Monastery

Last Updated: November 03, 2024 at 22:53

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Tragic Superpower Stories Like Chronicle

When incredible abilities amplify personal demons, leading to inevitable tragedy.If you liked Chronicle's exploration of power corrupting troubled teens, you'll find similar tragic arcs in these movies. This thread groups superhero and sci-fi stories where extraordinary abilities lead to dark consequences, focusing on characters whose personal struggles are magnified by their newfound power.

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These narratives unfold through the lens of participant-operated cameras, creating an intimate connection with the protagonist's perspective. The style amplifies realism and immediacy, often tracking a rapid descent from normalcy into supernatural or psychological chaos. The limited viewpoint increases tension as both character and audience piece together the escalating threat.

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Movies are grouped based on their shared found-footage aesthetic and the specific anxiety this style generates. They create similar viewer experiences through shaky cinematography, diegetic sound, and the sense of being an active participant in unfolding horror or supernatural events.

Unlock the Full Story of Chronicle

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

Chronicle Summary

Read a complete plot summary of Chronicle, 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.

Chronicle Summary

Characters, Settings & Themes in Chronicle

Discover the characters, locations, and core themes that shape Chronicle. Get insights into symbolic elements, setting significance, and deeper narrative meaning — ideal for thematic analysis and movie breakdowns.

Characters, Settings & Themes in Chronicle

Chronicle Spoiler-Free Summary

Get a quick, spoiler-free overview of Chronicle that covers the main plot points and key details without revealing any major twists or spoilers. Perfect for those who want to know what to expect before diving in.

Chronicle Spoiler-Free Summary

More About Chronicle

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

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