Poltergeist

Poltergeist

Year: 1982

Runtime: 114 min

Language: English

Director: Tobe Hooper

Horror

In this chilling Poltergeist tale, the Bowen family's idyllic suburban life is disrupted by malevolent forces when their young daughter Maddy starts conversing with an unseen presence. As eerie events escalate and she's spirited away, Eric and Amy must seek the expertise of paranormal investigators to confront the dark entities and rescue their trapped child from a supernatural realm that threatens to consume them all.

Warning: spoilers below!

Haven’t seen Poltergeist yet? This summary contains major spoilers. Bookmark the page, watch the movie, and come back for the full breakdown. If you're ready, scroll on and relive the story!

Timeline & Setting – Poltergeist (1982)
Explore the full timeline and setting of Poltergeist (1982). Follow every major event in chronological order and see how the environment shapes the story, characters, and dramatic tension.

Time period

The movie does not specify a particular time period but presents a contemporary suburban setting typical of the early 1980s. During this era, family dynamics and leisure activities revolved around the comforts of home and television, which plays a significant role in the mysterious occurrences faced by the family.

Location

Cuesta Verde, California

Cuesta Verde is a seemingly idyllic suburban neighborhood in California, characterized by comfortable homes and a close-knit community. Known for its family-friendly environment, it becomes the backdrop for a terrifying series of supernatural events that disrupt the tranquility of the Freeling family. The area, while initially a symbol of modern living, hides dark secrets beneath its surface.

🏘️ Suburban 🌳 Residential

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 20:11

Main Characters – Poltergeist (1982)
Meet the key characters of Poltergeist (1982), with detailed profiles, motivations, and roles in the plot. Understand their emotional journeys and what they reveal about the film’s deeper themes.

Diane Freeling (JoBeth Williams)

Diane Freeling is a nurturing mother who embodies warmth and resilience, striving to maintain her family's harmony as they face escalating supernatural threats. Her unwavering love for her children drives her to confront terrifying forces to protect them. Diane’s journey reflects the inner strength and courage that arises in the face of adversity.

👩‍👧‍👦 Family 🌪️ Resilience 🔮 Courage

Carol Anne Freeling (Heather O'Rourke)

Carol Anne is the innocent young daughter whose unique connection to the spiritual realm sets the chilling events of the film in motion. Her vulnerability and curiosity draw the attention of both benign and malevolent entities, making her the focal point of the haunting. Carol Anne’s unwavering spirit emerges as she endures unimaginable trials.

👧 Innocence 🌌 Otherworldly 💔 Vulnerability

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 20:11

Major Themes – Poltergeist (1982)
Explore the central themes of Poltergeist (1982), from psychological, social, and emotional dimensions to philosophical messages. Understand what the film is really saying beneath the surface.

👻 Supernatural

The theme of the supernatural is central to the narrative, manifesting through unexplained phenomena in the Freeling home. Ghostly apparitions, poltergeist activities, and the communication with otherworldly entities create a chilling atmosphere, challenging the family's understanding of reality and what lies beyond. This theme examines the intersection of the ordinary with the paranormal.

💔 Family Trauma

Family trauma emerges as a poignant theme as the Freeling family faces dire threats to their unity and safety. As supernatural forces invade their home, the family members experience fear, loss, and emotional turmoil that tests their bonds. The struggle to protect one another through the chaos reflects the psychological impact of their harrowing ordeal.

💡 Realization

The theme of realization showcases the awakening of the Freeling family to the dark truths associated with their home. Their ignorance transforms into a shocking revelation about the land's history and the spirits that haunt them, leading to a deeper understanding of the consequences of their actions and the legacy of the past.

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 20:11

Similar Movies to Poltergeist
Discover movies like Poltergeist that share similar genres, themes, and storytelling elements. Whether you’re drawn to the atmosphere, character arcs, or plot structure, these curated recommendations will help you explore more films you’ll love.