The Cable Guy

The Cable Guy

Year: 1996

Runtime: 96 min

Language: English

DramaThrillerComedy

While installing cable for his neighbor Steve, Chip becomes increasingly obsessed with forming a friendship, offering him a wide array of premium television channels. When Steve declines Chip’s unwanted attention, the initially helpful installer’s behavior turns sinister. Chip’s persistent advances escalate into a dangerous obsession, and as Steve tries to alert others to the threat, Chip’s descent into madness accelerates, creating a truly warped and unsettling situation.

Warning: spoilers below!

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Timeline – The Cable Guy (1996)

Trace every key event in The Cable Guy (1996) 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

Failed Marriage Proposal

Steven Kovacs proposes to his girlfriend Robin Harris, but the moment does not go as planned. Feeling rejected and distraught, he is forced to confront the reality of his failed relationship.

2

Seeking Advice from Rick

In his time of need, Steven turns to his reckless friend Rick for advice and support. This decision leads him down a path that will drastically change his life.

3

Meeting Chip

Steven decides to bribe cable installer Ernie 'Chip' Douglas to get complimentary movie channels. However, Chip's unannounced arrival leads to a number of unexpected consequences.

4

Trip to Central Satellite Dish

Chip takes Steven on a spontaneous trip to the city's central satellite dish, where he opens up about his troubled childhood. Their bond deepens, but tensions begin to surface.

Central Satellite Dish
5

Crashing the Basketball Game

Chip's involvement in Steven's life becomes intrusive as he crashes a basketball game. His aggressive style leads to chaos, breaking a glass panel and drawing unwanted attention.

Basketball Court
6

Home Theater Installation

After a night out at Medieval Times filled with competitive jousting, Chip surprises Steven by installing a lavish home theater system. Despite Steven's hesitation, he feels obligated to host a party.

Steven's Home
7

The Party Incident

At the party Chip hosts for his friends, Steven ends up sleeping with a woman named Heather, only to later learn that she is a prostitute. This revelation leads to tension between Steven and Chip.

Steven's Home
8

Confrontation with Chip

Angry about the betrayal, Steven confronts Chip over the incident with Heather. This confrontation culminates in a fallout that leaves their friendship hanging by a thread.

9

Chip's Revenge Plan

In a twisting act of revenge, Chip seeks out Robin, now dating Owen Wilson. He inflicts violence upon Owen and deceives Robin into thinking Steven has sent her a new cable package.

Restaurant Restroom
10

Steven's Arrest

Chip's obsessive behavior escalates as he frames Steven for possession of stolen property. Steven is arrested due to Chip's manipulation, facing severe humiliation in the process.

Police Station
11

Job Loss

After Chip leaks a private conversation, Steven is fired from his job, further adding to his suffering. The betrayal deepens as he battles a sense of helplessness.

Steven's Workplace
12

Rick's Investigation

Determined to help his friend, Rick investigates Chip, discovering a troubling history of stalking and psychological issues. This revelation heightens the stakes for Steven.

13

Chase to Save Robin

With Chip planning to visit Robin, Steven races against time to locate her. The tension builds as Steven realizes he must confront Chip once and for all.

City Satellite Dish
14

Final Confrontation

At the satellite dish, Steven face-offs against Chip, who holds Robin hostage. After a dramatic struggle, Steven manages to save her and brings the chaos to a climactic close.

City Satellite Dish
15

Chip's Reckless Act

In a shocking twist, Chip makes a reckless dive off a ladder and causes a citywide television blackout. Though injured, his haunting smile suggests his obsessions remain unresolved.

Last Updated: October 27, 2024 at 21:34

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The Cable Guy Summary

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Characters, Settings & Themes in The Cable Guy

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