The 5th Wave

The 5th Wave

Year: 2016

Runtime: 112 min

Language: English

Director: J Blakeson

ActionAdventureSci-FiThriller

When a series of devastating global events wipes out most of the Earth's population, a teenage girl named Cassie fights to protect her younger brother. As she navigates a world consumed by fear and violence, she encounters a mysterious young man who may hold the key to her survival. But can she trust him when the ultimate threat, the fifth wave, is about to arrive?

Warning: spoilers below!

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Timeline – The 5th Wave (2016)

Trace every key event in The 5th Wave (2016) with our detailed, chronological timeline. Perfect for unpacking nonlinear stories, spotting hidden connections, and understanding how each scene builds toward the film’s climax. Whether you're revisiting or decoding for the first time, this timeline gives you the full picture.

1

Exploring the Woods

Cassie Sullivan navigates the dense woods, fully aware of the dangers that lurk around her. Armed with a gun, she scavenges for supplies in an attempt to survive the aftermath of the alien invasion.

Dense Woods
2

The Encounter

In a tense moment, Cassie discovers a man hiding in an empty store. Both aim their weapons at each other, leading to a startling moment when she mistakenly shoots him after he reveals a crucifix.

Empty Store
3

Ordinary Life

Months before the invasion, Cassie is a typical 15-year-old living in suburban Cleveland, sharing laughter with her family and friends. She enjoys a close relationship with her younger brother Sam and harbors a crush on Ben, the local football star.

Cleveland, Ohio
4

The Arrival of The Others

The peaceful life of Cassie and her family is shattered when ominous alien spaceships descend from the sky. Panic and fear grip humanity as these extraterrestrial beings, known as 'The Others,' disrupt everyday life.

Sky
5

The First Wave

The invasion escalates with the first wave as an electromagnetic pulse wipes out all electronic power on Earth. This catastrophic event leads to plane crashes and immense loss of life, pushing Cassie and her family to search for basic necessities.

Earth
6

The Struggle for Survival

In the wake of the chaos, Cassie and Sam must retrieve water from a nearby lake as clean water sources become scarce. The siblings face the harsh reality of survival in a once-familiar world turned hostile.

Nearby Lake
7

The Second Wave

In a devastating turn, the second wave brings fierce earthquakes and tsunamis that obliterate coastal cities. The destruction further diminishes humanity's chances, as more lives are claimed by the relentless attacks.

Coastal Cities
8

Loss and Mourning

The third wave modifies the avian flu, leading to widespread infections, including Cassie's mother, Lisa. In a heart-wrenching scene, Cassie, Sam, and Oliver mourn Lisa as they lay her to rest in their front yard.

Front Yard
9

Camp Haven

Seeking refuge, Cassie and her brother are taken to a survivors' camp where they are trained by military forces led by Colonel Vosch. The emotional toll of separation weighs heavily on Oliver as he allows his children to embark on this uncertain journey.

Survivors' Camp
10

Sam's Teddy Bear

As the children are transported to safety, Sam realizes he forgot his beloved teddy bear. Cassie heroically rushes off the bus to retrieve it but watches in despair as the vehicle pulls away, leaving her behind.

Bus
11

The Fourth Wave

With the fourth wave in motion, Colonel Vosch reveals that The Others are using humans as hosts. This unsettling truth leads to a deadly confrontation, claiming the lives of nearly all adult figures, including Cassie's father Oliver.

Camp Haven
12

Military Training

At Camp Haven, the remaining children undergo intense military training. Ben and Sam are given new code names, marking their transformation from innocent kids to soldiers in a new world filled with danger.

Camp Haven
13

Bonds and Secrets

Amid the harsh environment of military training, Ben forms bonds with other survivors. He faces a moral dilemma when confronted with a boy suspected to be an Other, pushing him toward the brink of despair as he questions his own beliefs.

Camp Haven
14

A New Ally

Cassie, wounded and vulnerable, finds an unexpected ally in Evan Walker, who tends to her injuries. As their bond deepens, Cassie must remain cautious, wondering about the secrets Evan may hide.

Desolate Ruins
15

Confronting the Truth

As the children uncover the horrifying reality of their situation, they realize they are pawns in the Others' grand plan. With their lives hanging in the balance, Cassie must summon all her courage to fight against their alien oppressors.

Survivors' Camp
16

The Final Stand

In a climactic battle, Cassie and her allies face overwhelming odds fighting for their survival. As sacrifices are made and friendships emerge, Cassie reflects on hope and resilience, igniting a spark of light against the encroaching darkness.

Battlefield

Last Updated: October 28, 2024 at 18:13

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The 5th Wave Summary

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Characters, Settings & Themes in The 5th Wave

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