Misery

Misery

Year: 1990

Runtime: 107 min

Language: English

DramaThrillerCrime

After a car accident leaves novelist Paul Sheldon stranded, he's taken in by Annie Wilkes, a seemingly kind but intensely obsessive fan. As Paul recovers in her remote home, Annie's behavior becomes increasingly erratic and controlling, revealing a dangerous fixation on his work. He soon realizes he must find a way to escape her clutches and the terrifying consequences of her twisted demands, while also grappling with the fallout from his career.

Warning: spoilers below!

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Timeline & Setting – Misery (1990)

Explore the full timeline and setting of Misery (1990). Follow every major event in chronological order and see how the environment shapes the story, characters, and dramatic tension.

Time period

The film unfolds in a modern contemporary setting, featuring elements common in the late 20th century. This period is characterized by the rise of psychological thrillers and showcases the impact of fame and obsession in a society that is increasingly consumed by celebrity culture.

Location

Silver Creek Lodge, Annie's House

Silver Creek Lodge serves as the initial backdrop for Paul's car accident and is noted for its isolation in the snowy wilderness. Annie's house becomes a vital location in the film, a seemingly cozy place that quickly transforms into a prison as Paul realizes Annie's true nature.

🏔️ Lodge 🏡 House

Last Updated: January 14, 2025 at 22:07

Main Characters – Misery (1990)

Meet the key characters of Misery (1990), with detailed profiles, motivations, and roles in the plot. Understand their emotional journeys and what they reveal about the film’s deeper themes.

Paul Sheldon (James Caan)

Paul Sheldon, a successful romantic novelist, is depicted as intelligent yet trapped by his fame. His journey reveals his resilience, as he battles to survive his obsessive fan's wrath while also confronting his vulnerabilities and creative struggles.

🖋️ Author 🧠 Intelligent 💔 Vulnerable

Annie Wilkes (Kathy Bates)

Annie Wilkes is portrayed as a nurse with a dark obsession for Paul's 'Misery' novels. Although she initially appears nurturing, her true, dangerous personality emerges, showcasing a blend of charm and ferocity that makes her a truly terrifying antagonist.

👩‍⚕️ Nurse ⚔️ Angry 🤯 Obsessive

Last Updated: January 14, 2025 at 22:07

Major Themes – Misery (1990)

Explore the central themes of Misery (1990), from psychological, social, and emotional dimensions to philosophical messages. Understand what the film is really saying beneath the surface.

🔒 Obsession

The theme of obsession is central to 'Misery,' as Annie's intense fixation on Paul blurs the line between admiration and madness. Throughout the film, this obsession leads to horrifying consequences, illustrating how extreme fandom can lead to perilous situations for the object of affection.

🖊️ Creativity and Control

The struggle over creative control is a significant theme, as Annie demands that Paul conform to her vision for the Misery character. This conflict raises questions about the nature of authorship and the lengths to which a creator will go to maintain their integrity against external pressures.

🚪 Isolation

Paul's physical confinement in Annie's home symbolizes a deeper emotional isolation. This theme explores how isolation can impact one's psyche, pushing Paul to resort to desperate measures to escape both physically and mentally from Annie's clutches.

Last Updated: January 14, 2025 at 22:07

Unlock the Full Story of Misery

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

Misery Summary

Read a complete plot summary of Misery, 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.

Misery Summary

Misery Timeline

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

Misery Timeline

More About Misery

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

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