Howard the Duck

Howard the Duck

Year: 1986

Runtime: 110 min

Language: English

Director: Willard Huyck

Budget: $37M

ActionAdventureSci-FiComedyRomance

A wisecracking duck from Duckworld unexpectedly finds himself in Cleveland, thrust into a world of strange landscapes and humorous encounters. He forms an unlikely alliance with a rock star and a lab scientist named Phil. However, a malevolent spirit possessing Dr. Jenning threatens the city, forcing Howard and his newfound friends to work together to defeat the spirit, restore balance, and hopefully find a way back home.

Warning: spoilers below!

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Timeline – Howard the Duck (1986)

Trace every key event in Howard the Duck (1986) 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

Unexpected Journey Begins

Howard's ordinary life on Duckworld is abruptly altered when a bizarre incident with his armchair sends him hurtling through the cosmos. He unexpectedly lands in Cleveland, Ohio, where the reality he once knew is mixed with the alien world around him.

Duckworld
2

Meeting Beverly Switzler

Upon arrival in Cleveland, Howard encounters Beverly Switzler, who is caught in a dangerous situation. His desire to help ignites a newfound sense of heroism within him as he courageously defends her from her attackers using unconventional martial arts techniques.

Cleveland, Ohio
3

A Night at Beverly's

After their chaotic introduction, Beverly invites Howard to stay at her apartment for the night. This marks the start of their deepening friendship as they navigate the challenges of their unexpected alliance.

Beverly's Apartment
4

Seeking Help from Phil

The next day, Beverly attempts to contact Phil Blumburtt, hoping he can help send Howard back to Duckworld. However, Howard's hopes are crushed when he discovers that Phil is merely a lab assistant instead of the scientist he expected.

Cleveland, Ohio
5

Starting a New Life

After the disappointing meeting, Howard decides to accept his new life on Earth despite Beverly's offer of help. He takes up a job as a janitor in a romance spa, but ultimately quits to reconnect with Beverly and her rock band, Cherry Bomb.

Cleveland, Ohio
6

Confrontation with the Manager

Tensions rise when Howard confronts Cherry Bomb's unscrupulous manager, who intends to exploit the band for profit. Although Howard initially stands his ground, he finds himself back at Beverly's apartment shortly after the encounter.

Beverly's Apartment
7

Becoming a Manager

Beverly persuades Howard to take the role of Cherry Bomb's new manager. Their relationship grows stronger, and Howard's feelings for Beverly deepen amidst the glitz and glamour of the music scene.

Cleveland, Ohio
8

Revelation of the Laser Spectroscope

As Howard and the group bond, Phil reveals that a malfunctioning laser spectroscope was responsible for Howard's journey from Duckworld. This revelation sets the stage for their urgent mission to rectify the error and return Howard home.

Phil's Lab
9

Chaos in the Lab

The group's visit to the lab quickly spirals into chaos when the laser device fails again, potentially threatening Earth. During this crisis, Dr. Walter Jenning unwittingly becomes host to the Dark Overlord of the Universe, escalating the danger.

Phil's Lab
10

Kidnapping at the Diner

While dining at a local eatery, the Dark Overlord demonstrates his mental powers, causing destruction and panic. In this turmoil, Howard faces unwarranted hostility from truckers, and Beverly becomes abducted by the Overlord.

Local Diner
11

Desperate Rescue Mission

Determined to save Beverly from the Dark Overlord, Howard and Phil discover an ultralight aircraft. This discovery propels them into an exhilarating adventure as they prepare to confront the Overlord and halt his wicked plan.

Cleveland, Ohio
12

Battle Against the Overlord

In a climactic showdown, Howard and Phil attempt to thwart the Overlord's scheme to transfer his essence into Beverly. Just as they believe they have defeated him, the Overlord clouds the situation, revealing his true, menacing form.

Cleveland, Ohio
13

Final Showdown

In a desperate bid, Howard uses an experimental neutron disintegrator to annihilate the Overlord. This act comes at a cost, destroying the laser spectroscope and eliminating Howard’s chance of returning to Duckworld.

Cleveland, Ohio
14

New Beginnings

With the Dark Overlord defeated and the spectroscope destroyed, Howard accepts his fate to remain on Earth. He embraces a new life as Beverly's manager, while Phil joins her on tour, suggesting a fresh start for them all.

Cleveland, Ohio
15

The Spotlight

At the climax of their journey, Howard takes the stage with Beverly, creating a magical moment filled with music and enchantment. Their duet symbolizes the culmination of their adventures and a new chapter in their lives together.

Cleveland, Ohio

Last Updated: November 22, 2024 at 11:05

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Unlock the Full Story of Howard the Duck

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Howard the Duck Summary

Read a complete plot summary of Howard the Duck, 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.

Howard the Duck Summary

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Discover the characters, locations, and core themes that shape Howard the Duck. Get insights into symbolic elements, setting significance, and deeper narrative meaning — ideal for thematic analysis and movie breakdowns.

Characters, Settings & Themes in Howard the Duck

Howard the Duck Spoiler-Free Summary

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Visit What's After the Movie to explore more about Howard the Duck: box office results, cast and crew info, production details, post-credit scenes, and external links — all in one place for movie fans and researchers.

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