Cliffhanger

Cliffhanger

Year: 1993

Runtime: 112 min

Language: English

Director: Renny Harlin

ActionAdventureThriller

While scaling the Rocky Mountains, a former mountain rescuer is drawn into a dangerous situation when a seemingly simple rescue mission uncovers a ruthless gang of thieves. They are desperate to recover their stolen treasure, worth $100 million, and will stop at nothing to get it back. He must use all his skills to survive against the gang in the treacherous mountain terrain.

Warning: spoilers below!

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Timeline & Setting – Cliffhanger (1993)

Explore the full timeline and setting of Cliffhanger (1993). Follow every major event in chronological order and see how the environment shapes the story, characters, and dramatic tension.

Time period

Modern Era

The events take place in a contemporary setting, reflecting the technological advances and the socio-political climate of recent times. This time period is marked by innovations in rescue operations and heightened awareness of adventure sports safety. Additionally, themes of personal redemption and the impact of past traumas resonate strongly in this era.

Location

Colorado Rockies

The Colorado Rockies are a stunning mountain range known for their breathtaking scenery and outdoor recreational activities. This area is famed for its rugged terrain, towering peaks, and vast wilderness, making it a popular destination for climbers, hikers, and nature enthusiasts. The treacherous conditions and unpredictable weather add to the drama of adventure stories set in this majestic location.

🏔️ Mountains 🌲 Nature 🚵 Adventure

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 19:21

Main Characters – Cliffhanger (1993)

Meet the key characters of Cliffhanger (1993), with detailed profiles, motivations, and roles in the plot. Understand their emotional journeys and what they reveal about the film’s deeper themes.

Gabriel 'Gabe' Walker (Sylvester Stallone)

Gabe is a brave and skilled mountain ranger grappling with the guilt of a past tragedy involving a friend's death. His resilience and determination shine as he battles both the elements and his inner demons. Throughout the film, he transforms from a haunted individual into a proactive hero, driven by the need to save others and seek redemption.

🏞️ Hero 🧗 Adventure 😔 Guilt

Eric Qualen (John Lithgow)

Qualen is a cunning and ruthless former Military Intelligence officer who leads a gang of thieves. His intelligence and psychopathic tendencies make him a formidable antagonist. Qualen's manipulation and brutality serve as a stark contrast to Gabe's moral compass, driving the tension between the two throughout the film.

💼 Villain 🔫 Greed 🤖 Manipulation

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 19:21

Major Themes – Cliffhanger (1993)

Explore the central themes of Cliffhanger (1993), from psychological, social, and emotional dimensions to philosophical messages. Understand what the film is really saying beneath the surface.

💔 Survival and Guilt

The theme of survival is central to the plot, showcasing the struggle against both environmental and human threats. Gabe's deep guilt over Sarah's death propels the narrative, highlighting how personal trauma can shape one's choices and drive them to seek redemption. As he navigates life-threatening challenges, he must confront his past to overcome obstacles and save those he cares about.

🤝 Friendship and Betrayal

Friendship plays a crucial role as Gabe grapples with strained relationships, particularly with Hal, who harbors resentment. The film explores how crises can bring people together or create rifts, emphasizing trust and loyalty. Ultimately, the struggle against betrayal from both allies and enemies raises the stakes and deepens the emotional impact.

💰 Greed

Greed drives the antagonists, illustrating how the desire for wealth can corrupt and lead to moral decay. Qualen's obsession with stealing money fosters conflict and sets the stage for intense confrontations. The film contrasts the avarice of the villains with the selflessness of the protagonists, as Gabe and Hal prioritize survival and camaraderie over profit.

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 19:21

Unlock the Full Story of Cliffhanger

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

Cliffhanger Summary

Read a complete plot summary of Cliffhanger, 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.

Cliffhanger Summary

Cliffhanger Timeline

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

Cliffhanger Timeline

More About Cliffhanger

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

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