Cutting Class

Cutting Class

Year: 1989

Runtime: 91 min

Language: English

Director: Rospo Pallenberg

MysteryThrillerHorrorComedyCrime

As Brian Woods returns to his troubled past, whispers of instability surround him. Amidst the darkness, he vies for Paula's attention with her rebellious boyfriend Dwight. But when students vanish at an alarming rate, suspicion falls on Brian. Is he the killer or is a sinister force lurking beneath the surface?

Warning: spoilers below!

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Timeline & Setting – Cutting Class (1989)
Explore the full timeline and setting of Cutting Class (1989). Follow every major event in chronological order and see how the environment shapes the story, characters, and dramatic tension.

Time period

The events of the movie occur in contemporary times, reflecting the suburban lifestyle and teenage culture of the era. This time period is marked by typical high school experiences, social rivalries, and the emerging threats that disrupt everyday life. The casual, seemingly safe environment takes a dark turn as the plot unfolds.

Location

suburban neighborhood, school, swampy wilds, hot dog stand

The movie takes place in a quiet suburban neighborhood, known for its picturesque streets and close-knit communities. Key locations include a local school where teenage drama unfolds, a swampy wilderness that becomes a site of danger, and a popular hot dog stand where friends gather. These settings provide both a contrast to the horror elements and a backdrop for the character's interactions and conflicts.

🏡 Suburban 🏫 School 🌳 Nature 🌭 Food

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 23:24

Main Characters – Cutting Class (1989)
Meet the key characters of Cutting Class (1989), with detailed profiles, motivations, and roles in the plot. Understand their emotional journeys and what they reveal about the film’s deeper themes.

Bill Carson (Brad Pitt)

Bill Carson is the esteemed district attorney, characterized by his authoritative demeanor and a sense of determination. His role as a father complicates his day as he prepares for a hunting trip, unaware of the danger lurking nearby. His character reflects traditional masculine roles juxtaposed with direct involvement in the unfolding chaos.

👨‍⚖️ Authority 🔫 Hunter 🏅 Parent

Paula

Paula is Bill's teenage daughter, portrayed as both innocent and curious, navigating the complexities of adolescence amid perilous situations. She experiences conflicting emotions as she chooses between her interests in Dwight and Brian, which leads to significant tensions throughout the story. Her development throughout the film showcases courage and resourcefulness.

👧 Teenager 🏃‍♀️ Resourceful 💖 Love Triangle

Dwight Ingalls

Dwight is a bespectacled, somewhat awkward high school student characterized by his kind-hearted nature and unrequited love for Paula. His determination to protect her from the unfolding threat showcases his growth and bravery. He grapples with insecurities and ultimately rises to the occasion when the stakes are highest.

📚 Student 👓 Awkward 🦸‍♂️ Protector

Brian

Brian emerges as a complex antagonist, driven by jealousy and a dark desire for revenge. His character illustrates the dangers stemming from unresolved issues and emotional turmoil. As he escalates his violent tendencies, he becomes a formidable threat, challenging both Paula and Dwight's resolve.

🔪 Antagonist 😡 Jealousy 🚨 Threat

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 23:24

Major Themes – Cutting Class (1989)
Explore the central themes of Cutting Class (1989), from psychological, social, and emotional dimensions to philosophical messages. Understand what the film is really saying beneath the surface.

🔪 Violence

Violence is a central theme in 'Cutting Class', manifesting through both physical confrontations and the psychological terror faced by the characters. The film cleverly juxtaposes the innocence of teenage life with the brutal reality of murderous intent. This theme is encapsulated in the killer's actions as well as the protagonists' desperate struggles for survival.

💔 Betrayal

Betrayal weaves throughout the relationships in the movie, particularly in the dynamics between Paula, Dwight, and Brian. As trust crumbles under the pressure of rivalry and jealousy, characters are forced to confront their loyalties. The spiral of deceit ultimately leads to shocking revelations, emphasizing the destructive nature of betrayal.

🎯 Survival

Survival is a key theme, as characters navigate life-threatening situations while grappling with their emotions. The tension escalates as Paula and Dwight must use their wits and resilience to escape from Brian's violent pursuit. Their struggle for survival underscores the primal instincts that kick in during crises.

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 23:24

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