Rumpelstiltskin

Rumpelstiltskin

Year: 1995

Runtime: 87 mins

Language: English

Director: Mark Jones

HorrorHorror the undead and monster classicsCreepy chilling and terrifying horrorGory gruesome and slasher horrorSpooky scary comedy

When the fairy tale ends, the nightmare begins. In the 1400s, the mischievous spirit Rumpelstiltskin is sealed inside a tiny jade figurine. Centuries later in modern Los Angeles, a recently widowed police officer’s wife visits a witch’s shop with her infant, purchases the figurine and unwittingly releases the cackling creature, which demands the baby’s life.

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Timeline & Setting – Rumpelstiltskin (1995)

Explore the full timeline and setting of Rumpelstiltskin (1995). Follow every major event in chronological order and see how the environment shapes the story, characters, and dramatic tension.

Time period

15th century and present-day

The film begins in the 15th century with a tale of straw, gold, and a vengeful imp, then jumps to present-day Los Angeles where a grieving mother encounters the same ancient threat. The narrative alternates between these two periods, showing how the magical curse resurfaces in modern times. The progression culminates in a modern showdown that mirrors the fairy-tale roots.

Location

15th century Europe, Los Angeles, Bakersfield

The story shifts between a medieval European village under a desperate pact and a contemporary Southern California setting centered on Los Angeles and the Bakersfield outskirts. The medieval segments establish the cursed tale, while the present-day scenes follow Shelley's desperate attempts to undo the magic. The contrast between eras highlights how myths intrude into modern life.

🗺️ European setting 🏙️ Modern city 🗺️ Rural outskirts

Last Updated: October 04, 2025 at 19:28

Main Characters – Rumpelstiltskin (1995)

Meet the key characters of Rumpelstiltskin (1995), with detailed profiles, motivations, and roles in the plot. Understand their emotional journeys and what they reveal about the film’s deeper themes.

Shelley Stewart

A grieving, pregnant widow who buys a mysterious stone in hopes of reconnecting with her deceased husband. Her determination pushes her to face the supernatural threat, risking both her life and her child's. She pieces together the rules of the magic while racing to stop Rumpelstiltskin.

💔 Grieving 🤰 Pregnant 🛡️ Determined

Rumpelstiltskin

A malevolent, soulless imp who emerges from the stone to claim Johnny as payment for Shelley's wish. He pursues Shelly and Johnny across landscapes, using cunning and magic to stay one step ahead. His true vulnerability lies in the power of his own name, which can imprison him again.

🗝️ Villain 🔮 Magic 👹 Monster

Max Bergman

A flamboyant television show host who initially doubts the supernatural story but becomes a reluctant ally in the chase. His bravado gives way to resourceful action, helping Shelly navigate danger. He plays a key role in the plan to confront Rumpelstiltskin.

🎭 Flamboyant 🧭 Resourceful 🚗 Fast-thinking

Hildy

Shelley's loyal friend who offers support and practical advice through the escalating nightmare. She becomes a bridge between Shelley's world and the strange forces at work, even as she faces danger herself. Her presence underscores themes of friendship and resilience.

👩‍🦳 Friend 🕊️ Loyal 💪 Supportive

Matilda

Owner of Matilda's Place, an antique witch's shop, and a seasoned guide who explains the ritual's rules. She provides crucial knowledge to stop the rise of Rumpelstiltskin, even at a personal cost. Her involvement connects the modern plot to the ancient tale.

🔮 Wise 🪄 Mentor 🧭 Guide

Baby John

The infant whose existence triggers the central bargain. Johnny is the living payment sought by Rumpelstiltskin, around whom the plan to end the curse revolves. Shelley's concern for his safety motivates every major decision.

👶 Innocent 🧿 Precious 🏷️ Target

Last Updated: October 04, 2025 at 19:28

Major Themes – Rumpelstiltskin (1995)

Explore the central themes of Rumpelstiltskin (1995), from psychological, social, and emotional dimensions to philosophical messages. Understand what the film is really saying beneath the surface.

🪄 Magic

A mysterious stone acts as a living wish-granting artifact that reanimates Rumpelstiltskin. The film explores how magic can reshape reality and drive characters toward desperate actions. The presence of magic destabilizes ordinary life and creates a boundary between myth and modernity.

🕯️ Curses and Consequences

Wishes come with a heavy price, as Shelley's wish brings forth a dangerous entity that desires her child. The narrative emphasizes the moral costs of desire and the peril of bargaining with powerful forces. The consequences ripple across family and community, forcing tough choices.

🧭 Dual Realities

The film juxtaposes a fairy-tale past with a contemporary thriller, showing how legends seep into real life. Characters must navigate two overlapping worlds to attempt a final resolution. This duality drives the tension and reveals how old tales still haunt modern existence.

Last Updated: October 04, 2025 at 19:28

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Rumpelstiltskin Summary

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Rumpelstiltskin Summary

Rumpelstiltskin Timeline

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Rumpelstiltskin Timeline

Rumpelstiltskin Spoiler-Free Summary

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Rumpelstiltskin Spoiler-Free Summary

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