Phantasm

Phantasm

Year: 1979

Runtime: 88 min

Language: English

Director: Don Coscarelli

Sci-FiFantasyHorror

Strange events and unexplained deaths grip a small town, drawing the attention of young Mike. Investigating the bizarre occurrences, he uncovers a terrifying secret involving the local mortician, the Tall Man, who is reanimating the dead into horrific creatures. Joined by his brother Jody and their friend Reggie, Mike must confront the Tall Man and his deadly silver sphere, embarking on a dangerous and surreal journey to stop him and protect their community from his undead army.

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Phantasm (1979) – Spoiler-Free Movie Summary & Plot Overview

Get a spoiler-free look at Phantasm (1979) with a clear plot overview that covers the setting, main characters, and story premise—without revealing key twists or the ending. Perfect for deciding if this film is your next watch.

In a sleepy Southern California town where the everyday hum of life is suddenly pierced by whispers of the uncanny, a palpable sense of dread settles over the quiet streets. The community, once bound by simple routines, now finds itself haunted by a series of strange, inexplicable events that hint at something far beyond ordinary fear. Shadows seem longer, the night air carries a chill that feels almost sentient, and the ordinary corners of the town take on an eerie, surreal quality that keeps its residents on edge.

Mike, a curious thirteen‑year‑old with a restless imagination, becomes the reluctant beacon of this unsettling mystery. Living with his older brother Jody, a protective musician trying to keep normalcy for his younger sibling, the duo draws the attention of their close friend Reggie, a steady‑hearted ice‑cream vendor with a fondness for keeping the peace. Together they form a tight‑knit trio whose bond is tested by the town’s growing unease. Their investigation leads them toward the enigmatic local mortician, known only as the Tall Man, whose presence looms like a dark myth stitched into the fabric of the community.

The atmosphere of the film is drenched in a blend of classic horror and dreamlike surrealism, where ordinary settings warp into nightmarish landscapes. A glinting silver sphere hovers as a silent, ominous symbol of the unknown threat that hangs over the town, hinting at a menace that defies natural law. As the friends navigate the thin line between curiosity and terror, their dynamic—filled with youthful bravery, sibling loyalty, and steadfast friendship—drives the narrative forward, promising a journey that will test the limits of their courage and imagination.

Last Updated: August 10, 2025 at 14:13

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Phantasm Summary

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Characters, Settings & Themes in Phantasm

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