River's Edge

River's Edge

Year: 1987

Runtime: 99 min

Language: English

Director: Tim Hunter

DramaCrime

Near a riverbank outside a quiet California town, a shocking crime sends ripples through a group of teenagers. Samson's actions have devastating consequences, and his friends struggle to cope with the fallout. As they try to move on, Layne attempts to keep the truth hidden, but Matt and Clarissa become increasingly disturbed by the events. The group must confront the disturbing reality of their friend's actions and the moral implications that arise.

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Timeline & Setting – River's Edge (1987)

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

Time period

The film is set in a contemporary period reflective of the 1980s, marked by the struggles of youth grappling with societal issues like drug use and moral apathy. This era showcases the disillusionment facing teenagers and the consequences of their actions in a disconnected world.

Location

River, convenience store, school

The movie takes place in a small-town setting where a river flows through, symbolizing the lives intertwined by tragedy. A convenience store serves as a backdrop for the characters' illicit activities and poor choices. Additionally, the local school represents a traditional setting where youth confront ethical dilemmas amidst a backdrop of apathy.

🏞️ Nature 🏪 Store 🎓 Education

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 19:32

Main Characters – River's Edge (1987)

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

Tim

Tim is a young boy who unwittingly becomes entangled in the darker aspects of his friends' lives. His curiosity leads him to seek out illicit activities, but he remains innocent compared to the others. This innocence contrasts sharply with the grim events that unfold around him.

👦 Youth 🤔 Innocence

Matt

Matt is the older brother struggling with familial dysfunction and the weight of secrets after Jamie's death. He embodies the conflict between loyalty to family and the moral imperative to do what's right, which culminates in his desperate attempts to protect his loved ones.

👨‍👦 Family 😟 Conflict

Layne

Layne presents a façade of bravado but grapples with the repercussions of his reckless behavior. His character embodies the darker side of teenage rebellion and the quest for identity amid chaos. His increasing desperation drives pivotal plot developments.

😈 Rebellion 🤯 Desperation

Clarissa

Clarissa is portrayed as a conflicted character torn between her feelings for Matt and the moral implications of the events around her. Her evolution throughout the film showcases the struggle of wanting connection while recognizing the destructive elements in her circle.

❤️ Love 😔 Conflict

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 19:32

Major Themes – River's Edge (1987)

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

💔 Loss

The theme of loss permeates throughout the film, primarily illustrated by Jamie's tragic death and its ripple effects on the characters. It examines how the characters deal with grief, guilt, and the harsh realities of life. The loss of innocence is also palpable as they navigate a morally complex landscape.

⚖️ Morality

Morality stands as a central theme, highlighting the characters' ethical dilemmas in the face of Jamie's death. The struggle between right and wrong forces them to confront their actions and the societal indifference towards violence and crime. The film invites viewers to ponder the consequences of apathy and moral failure.

🚨 Consequences

The narrative underscores the consequences of the characters' choices, particularly regarding illegal activities and their subsequent cover-ups. As the film progresses, the impact of their actions becomes evident, illustrating how decisions lead to a cycle of tragedy and remorse. It serves as a stark reminder of the fragility of life and accountability.

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 19:32

Unlock the Full Story of River's Edge

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

River's Edge Summary

Read a complete plot summary of River's Edge, 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.

River's Edge Summary

River's Edge Timeline

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

River's Edge Timeline

More About River's Edge

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

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