Daniel Isn't Real

Daniel Isn't Real

Year: 2019

Runtime: 100 min

Language: English

Director: Adam Egypt Mortimer

ThrillerHorror

While attending college and dealing with a family tragedy, Luke resurrects his imaginary childhood friend, Daniel. Daniel is charming but unpredictable, and as their connection deepens, Luke begins a journey of self-discovery. However, Daniel's presence increasingly blurs the distinction between what's real and what's not, leading Luke down a disturbing path.

Warning: spoilers below!

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Timeline – Daniel Isn't Real (2019)

Trace every key event in Daniel Isn't Real (2019) 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

The Mass Shooting Incident

Young Luke experiences a traumatic event when a mass shooting occurs at a local coffee shop. This event profoundly affects him, imprinting a sense of fear and confusion in his childhood mind.

Local Coffee Shop
2

Meeting Daniel

In the aftermath of the shooting, Luke meets Daniel, a charming and confident boy who quickly becomes his friend. Despite being invisible to adults around them, their friendship provides Luke with much-needed companionship during his parents' divorce.

3

The Medication Incident

Daniel convinces Luke to mix a bottle of his mother Claire's psychiatric medication into a smoothie, claiming it will grant her superpowers. This reckless act leads to a near-fatal poisoning incident, putting a strain on their friendship.

4

Confining Daniel

Following the poisoning incident, Claire orders Luke to send Daniel away. Luke resorts to symbolically confining Daniel within his mother's old dollhouse, attempting to separate himself from the turmoil.

5

Luke's College Life

Years later, the now college-aged Luke struggles with anxiety about his future and the stress of caring for his mentally unstable mother. His conversations with his therapist, Dr. Braun, reveal his deep-seated fears of mirroring his mother's mental health issues.

College Campus
6

Daniel's Return

During a visit to his childhood home, an unexpected event occurs when Luke unlocks the dollhouse. Daniel re-emerges as an adult, initially appearing to be a supportive presence in Luke's chaotic life.

Luke's Childhood Home
7

Helping Prevent a Tragedy

Daniel's influence seems beneficial as he helps Luke navigate his tumultuous life, including preventing Claire from committing suicide. Luke also begins to experience academic success and finds romance with artist Cassie.

8

Daniel's Hostile Turn

As the relationship deepens, Daniel's behavior shifts to a more sinister nature. He shows aggression when Luke starts to assert himself, particularly in social situations, indicating a darker side to his influence.

9

The Chaotic Encounter

During a date with psychology student Sophie, Daniel overtakes Luke, resulting in a chaotic and public incident that gets Luke expelled from campus. This moment marks a significant turning point in Luke's perception of his own sanity.

Campus
10

Exploring Identity

Burdened with doubt about his mental health, Luke seeks answers after a visit to John Thigpen's father, which reveals disturbing parallels between their experiences. This encounter leads Luke to suspect that Daniel may not just be an imaginary friend.

11

Dr. Braun's Visit

In a desperate attempt to free Luke from Daniel's grasp, Dr. Braun makes a late-night visit. Tragically, this encounter ends with Luke's consciousness trapped in the dollhouse, while Daniel assumes control of his life.

12

Daniel's True Nature

As Luke's friends become targets, Daniel reveals himself as a 'traveler,' expressing his intent to harm Cassie. Luke struggles internally as he attempts to reclaim his identity and protect those he loves from Daniel's sinister plans.

Rooftop
13

The Final Confrontation

In their climactic showdown, Luke confronts Daniel, recognizing the danger he poses. Luke understands that their souls are intertwined and that he must make a significant sacrifice to protect Cassie from Daniel's predatory hunger.

Rooftop
14

Luke's Ultimate Sacrifice

In a selfless act, Luke jumps from the rooftop, ensuring Cassie's safety but ultimately resulting in his own demise. His decision reflects his final stand against Daniel's monstrous nature.

Rooftop
15

Daniel's Transformation

As Cassie mourns Luke's death, Daniel reverts back to his monstrous form in the shadows, hinting that he remains a lurking threat in search of a new host. This haunting conclusion underscores the lingering impact of his parasitic presence.

Last Updated: November 03, 2024 at 11:33

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Daniel Isn't Real Summary

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Daniel Isn't Real Summary

Characters, Settings & Themes in Daniel Isn't Real

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Characters, Settings & Themes in Daniel Isn't Real

Daniel Isn't Real Ending Explained

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Daniel Isn't Real Ending Explained

More About Daniel Isn't Real

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