Mary

Mary

Year: 2008

Runtime: 83 min

Language: English

Director: Abel Ferrara

DramaThriller

While filming a provocative new film about Jesus, actress Marie Palesi finds herself struggling with a growing sense of emptiness. As she portrays the role, she believes she is possessed by the spirit of Mary Magdalene, embarking on a spiritual journey. Simultaneously, a journalist investigates the making of the film for a documentary, uncovering unsettling truths. Rising tensions and bomb threats further complicate the production and intertwine Marie's personal crisis with the broader controversy surrounding the film.

Warning: spoilers below!

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Timeline & Setting – Mary (2008)

Explore the full timeline and setting of Mary (2008). Follow every major event in chronological order and see how the environment shapes the story, characters, and dramatic tension.

Time period

1976 and subsequent years

The story spans from 1976 through the following decades, capturing the social and cultural shifts of those times. The late 20th century setting provides a backdrop for personal growth, changing societal attitudes, and evolving technology, influencing the characters' lives and relationships.

Location

Mount Waverley, Australia, New York City

The movie begins in Mount Waverley, a suburban area in Australia known for its quiet neighborhoods and community life, contrasting sharply with New York City, a bustling metropolis famous for its iconic skyline, diverse culture, and vibrant arts scene. The settings reflect the stark difference between Mary's lonely childhood and Max's chaotic urban environment, emphasizing themes of isolation and connection.

🌏 Suburban 🗽 Urban

Last Updated: July 16, 2025 at 07:58

Main Characters – Mary (2008)

Meet the key characters of Mary (2008), with detailed profiles, motivations, and roles in the plot. Understand their emotional journeys and what they reveal about the film’s deeper themes.

Mary Daisy Dinkle

An empathetic, introverted woman who grew up facing social difficulties due to her birthmark and her dysfunctional family. Her journey involves seeking understanding, love, and personal fulfillment, ultimately turning her childhood loneliness into a meaningful academic and emotional life.

🧠 Psychology student 💔 Lonely 📚 Aspiring researcher

Max Jerry Horowitz

A socially anxious and obese man living in New York City, diagnosed with Asperger syndrome. His friendship with Mary provides a rare sense of connection and understanding, and his journey involves overcoming self-imposed isolation and embracing forgiveness and acceptance.

🧠 Asperger syndrome 🧸 Hobbyist 💭 Socially anxious

Last Updated: July 16, 2025 at 07:58

Major Themes – Mary (2008)

Explore the central themes of Mary (2008), from psychological, social, and emotional dimensions to philosophical messages. Understand what the film is really saying beneath the surface.

🧩 Mental Health

The movie explores mental health issues including Asperger syndrome, anxiety, and depression. It highlights the importance of understanding and acceptance, illustrating how friendships can be healing in the face of personal struggles.

🌸 Loneliness

Loneliness permeates the lives of both main characters, stemming from social rejection and personal trauma. Their correspondence becomes a vital source of comfort, showcasing the significance of unexpected connections and emotional support.

Last Updated: July 16, 2025 at 07:58

Unlock the Full Story of Mary

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

Mary Summary

Read a complete plot summary of Mary, 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.

Mary Summary

Mary Timeline

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

Mary Timeline

Mary Spoiler-Free Summary

Get a quick, spoiler-free overview of Mary 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.

Mary Spoiler-Free Summary

More About Mary

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

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