Dark Matter

Dark Matter

Year: 2008

Runtime: 88 min

Language: English

Director: Shi-Zheng Chen

Drama

Driven by ambition and idealism, Chinese science student Liu Xing pursues a PhD in America during the early 1990s. As he immerses himself in his dark matter research, he confronts the challenges of academic politics and cultural isolation. His journey explores the complexities of pursuing a dream while navigating the expectations of family and colleagues, ultimately leading him on an unexpected path.

Warning: spoilers below!

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Timeline & Setting – Dark Matter (2008)

Explore the full timeline and setting of Dark Matter (2008). Follow every major event in chronological order and see how the environment shapes the story, characters, and dramatic tension.

Time period

The film appears to be set in contemporary times, with themes and technological contexts reflecting modern-day academia and scientific inquiry. This setting allows for a realistic portrayal of the challenges faced by international students and their pursuit of knowledge in the United States.

Location

Valley State University

Valley State University serves as the primary setting for the film, representing a typical American university filled with diverse cultures and academic pursuits. It is a place where students come together to learn, innovate, and challenge established norms, making it an ideal backdrop for the film's themes of ambition and conflict in the world of academia.

🏫 University 🌍 American Life

Last Updated: May 13, 2025 at 17:29

Main Characters – Dark Matter (2008)

Meet the key characters of Dark Matter (2008), with detailed profiles, motivations, and roles in the plot. Understand their emotional journeys and what they reveal about the film’s deeper themes.

Liu Xing (Liu Ye)

Liu Xing is a humble yet brilliant Chinese student who navigates the challenges of adapting to life in America while pursuing his academic passions. His determination and intellect propel him into significant discoveries, but his ambitious nature also leads to conflicts with those around him, particularly his mentor.

🌟 Prodigy 📚 Student 💡 Innovator

Joanna Silver (Meryl Streep)

Joanna Silver is a wealthy university patron who becomes an important support system for Liu Xing during his transition to American life. Her mentorship and guidance highlight the importance of support and connection in the face of academic and personal challenges.

👩‍🏫 Mentor 🌟 Supporter

Professor Jacob Reiser (Aidan Quinn)

Professor Jacob Reiser is a renowned cosmologist who serves as both a mentor and a rival to Liu Xing. He represents the established academic authority, and his conflict with Xing embodies the tension between tradition and innovation in scientific research.

👨‍🏫 Authority ⚖️ Rival

Last Updated: May 13, 2025 at 17:29

Major Themes – Dark Matter (2008)

Explore the central themes of Dark Matter (2008), from psychological, social, and emotional dimensions to philosophical messages. Understand what the film is really saying beneath the surface.

🌌 Ambition

The theme of ambition is central to the film as Liu Xing strives for academic excellence and recognition in the world of cosmology. His passion for understanding dark matter drives him to push boundaries, highlighting the challenges faced by those who dare to innovate and go against established beliefs.

⚖️ Conflict

Conflict arises throughout the movie, not only between Liu Xing and Professor Reiser but also within Xing himself as he grapples with his obsession for a competing theory. This internal and external struggle dives deep into the competitive nature of academia and the repercussions of one’s drive to succeed.

Last Updated: May 13, 2025 at 17:29

Unlock the Full Story of Dark Matter

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

Dark Matter Summary

Read a complete plot summary of Dark Matter, 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.

Dark Matter Summary

Dark Matter Timeline

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

Dark Matter Timeline

More About Dark Matter

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

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