Frantic

Frantic

Year: 1988

Runtime: 120 min

Language: Japanese

Director: Roman Polanski

DramaMysteryThrillerCrime

A tense thriller begins when an audience finds themselves locked inside a Japanese theater, seemingly as part of a performance. However, the staged event quickly descends into a dangerous hostage situation. As the captors’ motives remain unclear, the lines between what is real and what is part of the show become increasingly blurred, putting everyone in peril and forcing them to confront unexpected truths.

Warning: spoilers below!

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Timeline & Setting – Frantic (1988)

Explore the full timeline and setting of Frantic (1988). Follow every major event in chronological order and see how the environment shapes the story, characters, and dramatic tension.

Time period

The film does not specify a particular time period, but it captures the essence of contemporary Paris. The events unfold in the backdrop of modern-day issues such as bureaucracy, international tensions, and crime.

Location

Paris

Paris, known as the City of Lights, is famed for its art, history, and culture. The River Seine runs through this iconic city, showcasing picturesque views and historic landmarks. It's a bustling city that attracts millions of tourists and serves as a hub for romance and intrigue.

🏙️ City 🏞️ River Seine

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 19:53

Main Characters – Frantic (1988)

Meet the key characters of Frantic (1988), with detailed profiles, motivations, and roles in the plot. Understand their emotional journeys and what they reveal about the film’s deeper themes.

Dr. Richard Walker

Dr. Richard Walker is a committed surgeon whose life takes an unexpected turn during a trip to Paris. His determination and resourcefulness are tested when his wife goes missing, prompting a frantic quest for answers. His character showcases resilience and the emotional toll of fear and loss.

👨‍⚕️ Surgeon 🏃‍♂️ Determined 😥 Devastated

Michelle

Michelle, portrayed by Emmanuelle Seigner, is a street-smart smuggler who becomes an unlikely ally to Richard. Her character embodies a blend of toughness and vulnerability, caught in a web of her own making. As she navigates her complicated life, she finds a sense of purpose in aiding Richard, complicating her own moral compass.

🕵️ Smuggler 🤷‍♀️ Reluctant Hero 💔 Tragic

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 19:53

Major Themes – Frantic (1988)

Explore the central themes of Frantic (1988), from psychological, social, and emotional dimensions to philosophical messages. Understand what the film is really saying beneath the surface.

💔 Loss

The theme of loss is central to the narrative as Richard grapples with the sudden disappearance of his wife. The emotional turmoil he experiences highlights the fragility of life and relationships. The loss is not just physical, but also connects to the loss of security and peace during their trip.

⏳ Desperation

Desperation drives Richard's actions as he races against time to find his wife. The pressure of the unknown and the ticking clock amplify his frantic state. This theme embodies the lengths one will go to protect loved ones amidst chaos.

🤝 Unexpected Alliances

Richard's partnership with Michelle illustrates the power of unexpected alliances. Despite their different backgrounds, they unite for a common goal. This theme emphasizes how crisis situations can bring unlikely characters together and foster cooperation.

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 19:53

Unlock the Full Story of Frantic

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

Frantic Summary

Read a complete plot summary of Frantic, 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.

Frantic Summary

Frantic Timeline

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

Frantic Timeline

More About Frantic

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

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