Skylines (2020) Characters, Setting & Themes Explained

Skylines takes place on two main locations: a devastated Earth, specifically the ruins of London, and an alien planet called Cobalt One, which serves as the Harvester homeworld. Earth shows the aftermath of a catastrophic alien invasion, while Cobalt One features eerie, uncharted landscapes where hybrid alien forces linger.

• setting
• locations
• earth
• london
• cobalt one
• alien planet

The events of Skylines occur five years after a devastating alien invasion that fundamentally altered human existence. Humanity has been forced to adapt to a new reality, dealing with the remnants of their previous lives while confronting emerging threats from hybrid beings and viral outbreaks.

• time period
• timeline
• five years after invasion
• post-invasion

Cobalt One is an uncharted alien planet that serves as the Harvester homeworld in Skylines. It is characterized by eerie landscapes and remains a constant threat as the base of operations for the alien forces that invaded Earth. The planet plays a crucial role in the conflict between humanity and the Harvesters.

• cobalt one
• harvester homeworld
• alien world
• alien planet

Rose, played by Lindsey Morgan, is the protagonist and leader of the human resistance against alien forces. Born under extraordinary circumstances with unique abilities, she carries significant guilt from past failures. Rose is instrumental in liberating harvested minds and reuniting families, demonstrating fierce determination and evolving powers throughout the film.

• rose
• protagonist
• resistance leader
• Lindsey Morgan

Trent is Rose's adoptive brother in Skylines, portrayed by Jeremy Fitzgerald. He serves as a crucial figure of support during the intense challenges the resistance faces. Trent's loyalty and bravery highlight the theme of family ties amidst chaos, as he grapples with his own struggles while striving to reclaim his humanity.

• trent
• adoptive brother
• family
• Jeremy Fitzgerald

Sacrifice is a central theme in Skylines, as characters navigate the harsh consequences of their choices in the fight against the alien threat. Rose's journey involves difficult decisions that result in significant losses, demonstrating that the resistance comes at a tremendous personal cost. The liberation of harvested minds requires characters to make extreme sacrifices to save their loved ones and humanity.

• sacrifice
• theme
• resistance
• choices

Despite the overwhelming odds and dark subject matter, hope and redemption are key themes woven throughout Skylines. Rose embodies this hope as she works to reclaim the lives of the Pilots and reunite families. Her character arc illustrates the possibility of redemption even in the face of despair, leading the fight for humanity's survival and ultimately shifting the tone toward hopefulness.

• hope
• redemption
• ending
• theme
• hopeful

The hybrid beings in Skylines are creatures that emerge from the alien invasion, representing a new challenge for humanity. These hybrid aliens may hold the key to survival and play a crucial role in the story's conflict. Dr. Mal's expertise becomes vital in understanding and helping these hybrid beings navigate the line between science and morality.

• hybrid
• aliens
• beings
• hybrid aliens

Leon, played by Jonathan Howard, is a complex character in Skylines driven by a sense of duty to protect what remains of humanity. Initially appearing as an antagonist who captures Rose, his journey reflects profound themes of loyalty and internal conflict. As the story unfolds, revelations about his motivations lead him to cross paths with Rose again under different circumstances.

• leon
• antagonist
• Jonathan Howard
• character

Owens, portrayed by Daniel Bernhardt, is a shadowy figure in Skylines who represents betrayal and moral ambiguity. Initially part of the human resistance effort, his ulterior motives lead to disastrous consequences for Rose and her team. His character challenges the lines between ally and enemy, highlighting the volatility of trust in desperate times.

• owens
• betrayal
• Daniel Bernhardt
• villain