Panic

Panic

Year: 2001

Runtime: 88 min

Language: English

Director: Henry Bromell

DramaThrillerComedyCrime

A journalist battling severe agoraphobia must overcome his fears to rescue his neighbor, who has been abducted. His desperate search takes him into dangerous territory, forcing him to confront not only the external threats lurking in the city but also the internal demons he’s been trying to escape. The harrowing experience tests his courage and challenges his perception of reality.

Warning: spoilers below!

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Timeline & Setting – Panic (2001)

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

Time period

1994

The events occur in 1994, a time marked by economic growth and urban renewal in major cities like New York. During this period, advancements in technology were also becoming more prominent, as seen in the communication systems and security features of the panic room. The societal landscape of the era also reflects a growing concern for personal safety, contributing to the film's tension-filled narrative.

Location

New York City, Upper West Side

The movie takes place in a four-story brownstone located in the Upper West Side of New York City, a vibrant urban area known for its cultural institutions and affluent residents. The brownstone is equipped with modern amenities, including a panic room, which adds a unique layer of security to the home. This distinctive setting contrasts the homey atmosphere with the danger that unfolds during the film.

🏙️ City 🏡 Residential

Last Updated: May 20, 2025 at 06:34

Main Characters – Panic (2001)

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

Meg Altman (Jodie Foster)

Meg Altman is a recently divorced mother navigating the challenges of single parenthood and personal safety. She is resourceful and courageous, showcasing remarkable intelligence and resilience during the home invasion. Her claustrophobia adds a layer of complexity to her character, illustrating her vulnerability while highlighting her determination to protect her daughter at all costs.

👩‍👧 Motherhood 🛡️ Courage 🔍 Resourcefulness

Sarah Altman (Kristen Stewart)

Sarah is Meg's 11-year-old daughter, who faces moral and physical challenges during the break-in due to her diabetes. Her character emphasizes the innocence of childhood threatened by danger, as well as the importance of familial bonds. Sarah's health condition adds a significant layer of urgency to the plot, enhancing the stakes for both her and her mother.

👧 Childhood ⛑️ Health ❤️ Innocence

Burnham (Forest Whitaker)

Burnham is a conflicted security expert who becomes entangled in the heist. He demonstrates a sense of morality and human decency, particularly concerning Meg and Sarah, which showcases the internal struggle between his job and ethics. His character evolves throughout the film, revealing depth and complexity amidst the criminal chaos.

🤔 Morality 🌪️ Conflict 🙏 Redemption

Junior (Jared Leto)

Junior is the impulsive and reckless grandson of the house's previous owner, seeking to claim his inheritance through unlawful means. His character embodies greed and desperation, driving the plot's conflict. Junior takes significant risks without considering the consequences, portraying a reckless youth fueled by entitlement.

💰 Greed ⚡ Impulsivity 🎭 Duplicity

Last Updated: May 20, 2025 at 06:34

Major Themes – Panic (2001)

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

⚔️ Survival

The theme of survival is central to the narrative, as Meg and Sarah face life-threatening situations during the home invasion. Their struggle to outsmart the intruders showcases resilience and maternal instincts in dire circumstances. The film emphasizes the lengths one will go to protect loved ones, even amidst chaos and uncertainty.

💔 Family

Family dynamics play a critical role in the story, illustrated through Meg's relationship with her daughter, Sarah, and her ex-husband, Stephen. Their interactions reveal the complexities of familial obligations and love during crises. The film ultimately portrays the importance of unity and trust in overcoming adversity, highlighting the bond between a mother and her child.

🔒 Security

Security is a prominent theme, represented by the panic room designed to protect the occupants from intruders. The film explores the notion of safety in one's home, and the lengths to which individuals will go to safeguard their well-being and possessions. The story raises questions about vulnerability and the reliability of security measures when faced with unexpected threats.

Last Updated: May 20, 2025 at 06:34

Unlock the Full Story of Panic

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

Panic Summary

Read a complete plot summary of Panic, 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.

Panic Summary

Panic Timeline

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

Panic Timeline

Panic Spoiler-Free Summary

Get a quick, spoiler-free overview of Panic 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.

Panic Spoiler-Free Summary

More About Panic

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

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