Demolition

Demolition

Year: 2016

Runtime: 101 min

Language: English

Director: Jean-Marc Vallée

DramaComedy

After a devastating loss, investment banker Davis's world implodes. Refusing to conform to his father-in-law's expectations, Davis pours out his soul in letters, revealing hidden truths and vulnerabilities. Chance encounters with customer service rep Karen and her son spark an unlikely bond, guiding Davis towards rebuilding his life, brick by broken piece, as he confronts the rubble of his past.

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Timeline & Setting – Demolition (2016)
Explore the full timeline and setting of Demolition (2016). Follow every major event in chronological order and see how the environment shapes the story, characters, and dramatic tension.

Time period

Contemporary

The events of 'Demolition' unfold in a contemporary setting, reflecting modern societal issues such as grief, emotional detachment, and the complexities of personal relationships. This time period showcases the challenges of navigating life amidst the rapid changes and demands of urban living.

Location

New York City

The movie takes place in New York City, a vibrant metropolis known for its iconic skyline, bustling streets, and rich cultural diversity. It serves as the backdrop for the emotional journey of the protagonist, highlighting the juxtaposition of his personal struggles against the city's relentless pace.

🏙️ Urban 🏢 City Life

Last Updated: May 04, 2025 at 18:46

Main Characters – Demolition (2016)
Meet the key characters of Demolition (2016), with detailed profiles, motivations, and roles in the plot. Understand their emotional journeys and what they reveal about the film’s deeper themes.

Davis Mitchell (Jake Gyllenhaal)

Davis is a successful investment banker who struggles profoundly with the death of his wife, ultimately revealing his emotional disconnection from life. His journey towards understanding his grief leads him to develop unexpected relationships and confront harsh truths about his lost marriage.

🏦 Investment Banker 💔 Grieving 🔍 Self-Reflective

Karen Moreno (Naomi Watts)

Karen is a compassionate customer service representative who becomes an unexpected confidante for Davis. She navigates her own personal struggles, forming a platonic bond with Davis that helps both of them cope with their respective burdens.

💼 Customer Service 🤝 Supportive Friend 🧭 Navigating Life

Chris (Judah Lewis)

Chris is Karen's teenage son who initially dislikes Davis but ultimately forms a mentorship bond with him. Through their relationship, Chris helps Davis face his troubles while also dealing with his own struggles, becoming a symbol of hope and resilience.

👦 Troubled Teen 🤔 Seeking Guidance 📈 Growth

Last Updated: May 04, 2025 at 18:46

Major Themes – Demolition (2016)
Explore the central themes of Demolition (2016), from psychological, social, and emotional dimensions to philosophical messages. Understand what the film is really saying beneath the surface.

💔 Grief

Grief is a central theme in 'Demolition,' as the protagonist, Davis, navigates the profound loss of his wife. The film explores his emotional detachment, revealing how he struggles to process his feelings and ultimately seeks to dismantle the remnants of their shared life in an attempt to find closure.

🔧 Self-Discovery

Davis's journey in 'Demolition' is also one of self-discovery. Through his obsession with dismantling and rebuilding, he learns to confront his emotions and cope with the reality of his situation. His interactions with characters such as Karen and Chris facilitate personal growth and lead him towards reconciling his past.

Last Updated: May 04, 2025 at 18:46

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