The Clearing

The Clearing

Year: 2004

Runtime: 95 min

Language: English

Director: Pieter Jan Brugge

DramaThriller

During a peaceful wilderness trip, a father and daughter find themselves unexpectedly attacked by a group of flesh-eating undead. They must then depend on their skills and bond to navigate the dangerous situation and fight for survival in the isolated clearing.

Warning: spoilers below!

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Timeline & Setting – The Clearing (2004)

Explore the full timeline and setting of The Clearing (2004). Follow every major event in chronological order and see how the environment shapes the story, characters, and dramatic tension.

Time period

The events of the movie occur in the contemporary era, reflecting modern societal issues such as crime and personal betrayal. This time period holds relevance as it showcases the fragility of trust and relationships in a seemingly perfect life.

Location

American suburb

The movie takes place in an American suburb, known for its picturesque neighborhoods and a sense of community. This setting represents the American dream, where families aspire to live in comfort and security. However, the tranquility of such a place stands in stark contrast to the violence and chaos that threaten its inhabitants.

🏡 Home 🏙️ Urban Life

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 19:51

Main Characters – The Clearing (2004)

Meet the key characters of The Clearing (2004), with detailed profiles, motivations, and roles in the plot. Understand their emotional journeys and what they reveal about the film’s deeper themes.

Wayne Hayes (Robert Redford)

Wayne Hayes portrays an idealistic family man who is deeply flawed, navigating the complexities of loyalty and love. His extramarital affair adds layers to his character, revealing a man who has strayed from his values. This betrayal becomes a significant part of his narrative, impacting both his life and that of his wife, Eileen.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Family ❤️ Love 😔 Regret

Eileen Hayes (Helen Mirren)

Eileen Hayes is portrayed as a strong and determined woman faced with an unimaginable crisis. Her character embodies resilience as she combats the fear and uncertainty of losing her husband. The depth of her emotional turmoil, particularly regarding Wayne's betrayal, defines her journey throughout the film.

👩‍❤️‍👨 Love 🚺 Strength 😩 Heartbreak

Arnold Mack (Willem Dafoe)

Arnold Mack is depicted as a menacing figure whose actions drive the film's tension. As Wayne's former employee and kidnapper, he challenges Wayne's will to survive and forces the narrative's central conflict. His unpredictable nature and ruthless demeanor create a palpable sense of danger that permeates the story.

😈 Villain 🔒 Conflict 🚨 Danger

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 19:51

Major Themes – The Clearing (2004)

Explore the central themes of The Clearing (2004), from psychological, social, and emotional dimensions to philosophical messages. Understand what the film is really saying beneath the surface.

💔 Betrayal

Betrayal is a core theme throughout the film, primarily illustrated through Wayne's extramarital affair. This act not only impacts his relationship with Eileen but also complicates the dire circumstances surrounding his kidnapping. The emotional fallout from this betrayal lays bare the fragility of their marriage and love.

🚨 Desperation

Desperation permeates the film as Eileen fights against the clock to save her husband. Her frantic attempts to negotiate for Wayne's safety highlight the lengths to which individuals will go during a crisis. The story compels viewers to reflect on the depths of desperation faced when loved ones are in peril.

⏳ Time

The theme of time is poignantly represented in the film, especially in the contrasting timelines of Wayne and Eileen's experiences. While Eileen battles for Wayne's survival over a week, the tragic reality of Wayne’s fate unravels in a mere day. This manipulation of time enhances the emotional tension and underscores the tragic nature of their predicament.

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 19:51

Unlock the Full Story of The Clearing

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

The Clearing Summary

Read a complete plot summary of The Clearing, 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.

The Clearing Summary

The Clearing Timeline

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

The Clearing Timeline

More About The Clearing

Visit What's After the Movie to explore more about The Clearing: 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 The Clearing

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