Hush

Hush

Year: 1998

Runtime: 96 min

Language: English

Director: Jonathan Darby

MysteryThriller

Living in his mother Martha’s grand estate, Jackson and Helen are overjoyed to be expecting their first child. However, Martha’s seemingly sweet demeanor hides a deep-seated jealousy, and she begins to manipulate events to drive the couple apart. As Helen tries to build a loving home for her growing family, Martha's increasingly sinister actions threaten their happiness and cast a dark cloud over their future, pushing them to the edge.

Warning: spoilers below!

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Timeline & Setting – Hush (1998)

Explore the full timeline and setting of Hush (1998). Follow every major event in chronological order and see how the environment shapes the story, characters, and dramatic tension.

Time period

The movie takes place in contemporary times, reflecting modern societal issues and personal relationships. This era is marked by themes of family dynamics, relationships, and the struggles of overcoming past traumas.

Location

New York, Kilronan

The story unfolds in the vibrant city of New York, known for its bustling streets and cultural diversity. Kilronan, Jackson's ancestral farmhouse in Kentucky, stands in stark contrast, embodying tradition and family heritage. This quaint farmhouse plays a crucial role in the couple's journey, serving as a backdrop for deep emotional revelations and conflicts.

🌆 City 🏡 Farmhouse

Last Updated: January 14, 2025 at 22:06

Main Characters – Hush (1998)

Meet the key characters of Hush (1998), with detailed profiles, motivations, and roles in the plot. Understand their emotional journeys and what they reveal about the film’s deeper themes.

Helen

Helen is a strong-willed character who undergoes significant transformation throughout the film. Initially excited about her new life and impending motherhood, she faces immense pressure from her mother-in-law, Martha. Her journey reflects a deepening awareness of her own strength and the necessity to confront and escape toxic relationships.

💪 Strong 👩‍❤️‍👨 Loving 🛡️ Protective

Jackson

Jackson is portrayed as a caring partner but is deeply affected by his past traumas linked to his family. His struggle to reconcile his love for Helen with his complicated relationship with his mother forms the crux of his character arc. As the story unfolds, he must confront the painful truths of his family's history and take a stand for his future.

❤️ Caring 🧠 Reflective 😟 Troubled

Martha

Martha epitomizes the archetype of a controlling matriarch, whose manipulative tactics are driven by a desire to maintain control over her family. Her character reveals the darker side of familial loyalty and the lengths one might go to protect their image, ultimately leading to conflict with Helen. Martha's complexity adds depth to the narrative, showcasing the impact of past decisions on present dynamics.

😈 Manipulative 👵 Controlling 😕 Troubled

Alice

Alice, Jackson's paternal grandmother, serves as a voice of reason and provides crucial insights into the family's history. Her perspective on Jackson's father's death contributes to the unfolding drama, exposing hidden truths and the reality of family relationships. Alice embodies a sense of wisdom that contrasts with Martha's controlling nature.

🧓 Wise 🔍 Insightful 🤝 Supportive

Last Updated: January 14, 2025 at 22:06

Major Themes – Hush (1998)

Explore the central themes of Hush (1998), from psychological, social, and emotional dimensions to philosophical messages. Understand what the film is really saying beneath the surface.

🌀 Family Ties

The theme of family plays a pivotal role in the narrative, exploring both the bonds and the conflicts that arise within familial relationships. Helen's integration into Jackson's family becomes the catalyst for uncovering hidden truths and deep-seated animosities, particularly with Martha. The struggle for autonomy against oppressive family ties creates a powerful narrative about defining one's own path.

💔 Betrayal

Betrayal is a core theme that permeates the relationships depicted in the film. Martha's manipulative nature leads to deep distrust, not only between Helen and Martha but also within Jackson's family dynamics. The unraveling of secrets regarding Jackson's father's death highlights the devastating impact of betrayal and deceit on personal relationships.

🌟 Resilience

Resilience emerges as Helen navigates her tumultuous relationship with Martha and confronts the violent incident that shifts her world. Her journey of self-empowerment and determination to protect her family signifies a profound strength in the face of adversity. This theme culminates in her defiance against Martha, embodying the courage to reclaim her life and future.

Last Updated: January 14, 2025 at 22:06

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Narrative Summary

A protagonist, isolated in a confined setting like a home or remote location, is targeted by a cunning antagonist who uses psychological manipulation as a primary weapon. The plot methodically escalates the antagonist's control and cruelty, forcing the protagonist to uncover the truth and gather the strength for a final, cathartic confrontation.

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Narrative Summary

The narrative follows a character who initially seeks belonging within a family unit, only to discover its deeply dysfunctional and manipulative core. The story arc is one of awakening and resistance, as the character uncovers painful truths and must engage in a fierce emotional struggle to sever toxic ties and claim their independence and happiness.

Why These Movies?

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Unlock the Full Story of Hush

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

Hush Summary

Read a complete plot summary of Hush, 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.

Hush Summary

Hush Timeline

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

Hush Timeline

Hush Spoiler-Free Summary

Get a quick, spoiler-free overview of Hush that covers the main plot points and key details without revealing any major twists or spoilers. Perfect for those who want to know what to expect before diving in.

Hush Spoiler-Free Summary

More About Hush

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

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