Near Dark

Near Dark

Year: 1987

Runtime: 94 min

Language: English

Director: Kathryn Bigelow

ActionDramaThrillerHorrorRomanceCrime

A chance encounter between cowboy Caleb Colton and the mysterious Mae sparks an intense and passionate romance. As their relationship deepens, Caleb is bitten by Mae, revealing her vampiric nature and forever changing his life. Forced to leave his family behind, he joins Mae's gang of vampires, struggling to reconcile his love for her with his former existence and the dangerous world he now inhabits.

Warning: spoilers below!

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Timeline & Setting – Near Dark (1987)

Explore the full timeline and setting of Near Dark (1987). Follow every major event in chronological order and see how the environment shapes the story, characters, and dramatic tension.

Time period

19th Century, Present

The film hints at historical elements, with references to the American Civil War and the Great Chicago Fire of 1871, suggesting that the vampire characters have lived through significant periods in American history. This juxtaposes the modern-day setting, where Caleb struggles with contemporary issues alongside the supernatural elements of vampirism.

Location

Quiet Town, Local Bar, RV

The movie takes place in a quiet town, which serves as a stark contrast to the dark activities of Caleb's new companions. A local bar is a pivotal location where the vampire gang showcases their brutality, leading to a fiery escape. The nomadic lifestyle of the vampires is emphasized by their travel in an RV, symbolizing their transient existence.

🏙️ Town 🍺 Bar 🚐 RV

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 21:36

Main Characters – Near Dark (1987)

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

Caleb Colton

Caleb is a young man who undergoes a harrowing transformation into a vampire, grappling with the moral implications of his new existence. He is characterized by his bravery and compassion, often placing the well-being of others above his own. Caleb's struggles embody the conflict between humanity and monstrosity, driving the narrative forward.

🧑‍🦱 Young 🦇 Vampire ❤️ Brave

Mae

Mae is the captivating drifter who initiates Caleb's transformation into vampirism. She embodies both allure and danger, showcasing a deep emotional connection with Caleb while navigating her own dark world. Mae's character illustrates the complexities of love, fear, and survival amid supernatural circumstances.

🧚‍♀️ Enigmatic ❤️ Love 🌌 Mysterious

Jesse Hooker

Jesse is the enigmatic leader of the vampire group who embodies both charisma and menace. His long history adds a layer of complexity to his character as he attempts to mentor Caleb while pursuing his own dark motives. Jesse's cryptic nature and moral ambiguity reflect the struggles of those who have lived for centuries.

🧛 Leader 🔥 Charismatic 🌀 Dark

Severen

Severen represents the volatility and danger of the vampire lifestyle. His aggressive and impulsive nature contrasts sharply with Caleb's hesitation, creating ongoing tension within their group dynamic. Through Severen's character, the film explores themes of violence and primal instincts.

🩸 Aggressive 🔪 Volatile 😈 Dangerous

Homer

Homer, the child vampire, showcases the complexities of innocence lost in the vampire world. His infatuation with Caleb's sister highlights the theme of burgeoning desires mingled with the darker aspects of vampirism. His actions ultimately illustrate the tragic consequences of this duality.

👶 Child 💔 Infatuated 🌪️ Tragic

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 21:36

Major Themes – Near Dark (1987)

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

🧛 Vampirism

Vampirism serves as a central theme in the movie, exploring the transformation and existential struggles faced by Caleb after being turned. It delves into the moral dilemma of killing for sustenance and the internal conflict between his human instincts and newfound nature. The portrayal of vampires as both terrifying and vulnerable adds depth to the exploration of this theme.

💔 Love and Sacrifice

The theme of love and sacrifice is evident in Mae's willingness to kill for Caleb to protect him while navigating the complex dynamics of their relationship. As they face external adversities and internal conflicts, their bond reflects the intricate balance of hope and despair in their journey together. This theme culminates in the emotional climax when they confront their fate.

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 21:36

Unlock the Full Story of Near Dark

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

Near Dark Summary

Read a complete plot summary of Near Dark, 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.

Near Dark Summary

Near Dark Timeline

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

Near Dark Timeline

More About Near Dark

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

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