Novocaine

Novocaine

Year: 2001

Runtime: 95 min

Language: English

Director: David Atkins

DramaThrillerComedyCrime

In this darkly comedic thriller, a seemingly content dentist's life unravels when a captivating new patient disrupts his neatly ordered world. As he becomes entangled in a web of seduction, addiction, and murder, Steve Martin's character finds himself struggling to maintain control amidst the chaos that surrounds him.

Warning: spoilers below!

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Timeline & Setting – Novocaine (2001)
Explore the full timeline and setting of Novocaine (2001). Follow every major event in chronological order and see how the environment shapes the story, characters, and dramatic tension.

Time period

The film does not specify an exact time period but reflects contemporary themes of addiction, crime, and infidelity. It encapsulates the chaotic and often darkly comedic aspects of modern life, where moral boundaries blur and characters navigate crises in search of personal freedom.

Location

Frank's dental office, hotel, France

Frank's dental office serves as the initial setting where his life starts to unravel after meeting Susan. The hotel is a critical locale for their illicit encounters, highlighting the chaos that ensues from their relationship. The film culminates in France, representing a fresh start away from their tumultuous past, showcasing the allure and beauty of a countryside cottage.

🏥 Healthcare 🏨 Lodging 🇫🇷 Travel

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 20:30

Main Characters – Novocaine (2001)
Meet the key characters of Novocaine (2001), with detailed profiles, motivations, and roles in the plot. Understand their emotional journeys and what they reveal about the film’s deeper themes.

Frank (Steve Martin)

Frank is portrayed as a typical everyman whose life spirals into chaos after a chance encounter with a patient. Initially cautious and professional, he finds himself in morally compromising situations, showcasing his vulnerability and flawed nature. His journey is one of desperation, filled with mistakes that lead to tragic consequences.

🏷️ Dentist 😔 Everyman 💔 Betrayed

Susan Ivey (Helena Bonham Carter)

Susan is a tantalizing and manipulative figure whose allure leads Frank into a world of addiction and crime. Her charm hides a darker side, revealing her own struggles and predatory nature. Susan's actions catalyze the events of the film, marking her as a pivotal character in Frank's downfall.

💋 Seductress ☠️ Manipulative 🔥 Chaotic

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 20:30

Major Themes – Novocaine (2001)
Explore the central themes of Novocaine (2001), from psychological, social, and emotional dimensions to philosophical messages. Understand what the film is really saying beneath the surface.

💊 Addiction

Addiction stands as a central theme, manifested through Susan's dependence on painkillers which leads to a chain of events that spirals out of control. Frank's own descent into a life of crime highlights the ease with which one can become ensnared by addiction. The film deftly explores the consequences of substance abuse on relationships and personal integrity.

🌀 Chaos

The narrative illustrates the chaos that ensues when an ordinary life intersects with the unexpected. Frank's mundane existence is shattered as quick decisions lead to dire consequences. This theme underscores the unpredictability of life and how swiftly one can descend into turmoil.

💔 Betrayal

Betrayal permeates the relationships in the film, from Frank's deceit towards his wife to Susan's manipulation of him for her gain. The culmination of betrayal results in irreversible changes in the characters' lives, emphasizing the theme's impact on trust and relationship dynamics.

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 20:30

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