Hellraiser

Hellraiser

Year: 1987

Runtime: 94 min

Language: English

Director: Clive Barker

ThrillerHorror

In a descent into dark obsession, a grieving woman becomes entwined with the revived, mutilated corpse of her brother-in-law, driven by an unholy desire to resurrect him and free him from the tormented clutches of demonic entities that seek to drag him back to their abyssal realm.

Warning: spoilers below!

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Timeline & Setting – Hellraiser (1987)
Explore the full timeline and setting of Hellraiser (1987). Follow every major event in chronological order and see how the environment shapes the story, characters, and dramatic tension.

Time period

The events in 'Hellraiser' are contemporary to the late 20th century, reflecting the cultural notions of horror and supernatural. This era is known for its exploration of psychological horror and the intersection of dark fantasy with reality.

Location

North Africa, England

The film starts in North Africa where Frank Cotton acquires the ominous puzzle box. The story then shifts to an abandoned house in England, steeped in dark memories and secrets from Frank's past, serving as the backdrop for the horrific events that unfold.

🌍 Location 🏚️ Abandoned House

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 20:37

Main Characters – Hellraiser (1987)
Meet the key characters of Hellraiser (1987), with detailed profiles, motivations, and roles in the plot. Understand their emotional journeys and what they reveal about the film’s deeper themes.

Frank Cotton

Frank is a deeply flawed character driven by his insatiable appetite for pleasure and thrill. His pursuit of forbidden experiences leads to tragic consequences as he becomes a grotesque figure, highlighting themes of obsession and mortality.

👹 Villain 😱 Obsession

Larry Cotton

Larry is depicted as a caring yet oblivious father, unaware of the dark secrets surrounding him. His sudden injuries and naive trust make him a tragic character, ultimately leading to his demise at the hands of his brother.

👨‍👧 Family 😢 Tragedy

Julia Cotton

Julia exhibits complex layers, torn between her past with Frank and her current life with Larry. Initially depicted as a loving wife, her darker side emerges as she assists Frank, showcasing her vulnerability and moral ambiguity.

💔 Betrayal 🇬🇧 Complexity

Kirsty Cotton

Kirsty is the resourceful daughter caught in a horrifying reality. Her transformation from a naive girl to a determined survivor perfectly encapsulates the fight against evil, showcasing resilience and bravery in her desperate actions.

👧 Survival ⚔️ Resilience

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 20:37

Major Themes – Hellraiser (1987)
Explore the central themes of Hellraiser (1987), from psychological, social, and emotional dimensions to philosophical messages. Understand what the film is really saying beneath the surface.

🩸 Horror

The core theme of 'Hellraiser' revolves around horror, both physical and psychological. It explores the darker aspects of human desires and the consequences of seeking forbidden pleasures, as embodied by Frank and the Cenobites.

💔 Betrayal

Betrayal is prominently featured in the relationships between characters, especially the affair between Julia and Frank. This theme reveals the devastating impact of treachery, leading to gruesome outcomes and shattered familial bonds.

🔗 Dark Desires

The allure of dark desires is a recurring theme, manifesting through Frank's obsession with the puzzle box and Julia's complicity in his horrific acts. The film illustrates how these desires can spiral into chaos and despair.

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 20:37

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