Cold Weather

Cold Weather

Year: 2011

Runtime: 96 min

Language: English

Director: Aaron Katz

Drama

After abandoning his studies, Doug returns to Portland and finds himself under the care of his sister, Gail. Seeking purpose, he assists in the investigation when his former girlfriend, Rachel, mysteriously disappears. Joining forces with a group of resourceful individuals, Doug delves into the complexities of the case, determined to uncover the truth behind Rachel's vanishing and confront the secrets of his hometown.

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Cold Weather (2011) – Spoiler-Free Movie Summary & Plot Overview

Get a spoiler-free look at Cold Weather (2011) with a clear plot overview that covers the setting, main characters, and story premise—without revealing key twists or the ending. Perfect for deciding if this film is your next watch.

In the damp, ever‑gray streets of Portland, a city where the Pacific Coast fog seems to settle into every conversation, Doug drifts back after leaving his forensic science studies behind. Living under the watchful eye of his pragmatic sister, Gail, he takes a job at an ice factory, a setting that mirrors his own chill‑induced uncertainty. The everyday rhythm of cold warehouses and coffee‑shop lunches offers a quiet backdrop for a man searching for direction, while the city itself hums with a low‑key indie energy that feels both familiar and oddly alien to him.

It isn’t long before the familiar pull of an old connection surfaces: Rachel, Doug’s former girlfriend, reappears in town, bringing with her a spark of the life he once imagined. Their reunion, framed by shared meals and spontaneous outings, highlights the lingering chemistry and the unspoken questions that have followed them across states. Alongside them is Carlos, a charismatic coworker whose love of music, mystery novels, and off‑beat hobbies adds a vibrant layer to the small, tight‑knit circle forming around Doug. Their interactions—part banter, part earnest concern—set the tone for a story that balances lighthearted camaraderie with an undercurrent of intrigue.

When Rachel’s sudden disappearance casts a shadow over their newfound cohesion, the group’s curiosity turns into purpose. The film leans into a moody, almost noir‑tinged atmosphere, letting the damp cityscape and the quiet determination of its characters drive the narrative forward. As Doug, aided by his sister’s resourcefulness and his friend’s street‑wise instincts, begins to probe the mystery, the audience is invited to feel the pull of hometown secrets and the restless desire to uncover what lies just beyond the familiar fog.

Last Updated: August 10, 2025 at 08:06

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Cold Weather Summary

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Cold Weather Summary

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Characters, Settings & Themes in Cold Weather

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Characters, Settings & Themes in Cold Weather

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