The Frighteners

The Frighteners

Year: 1996

Runtime: 110 min

Language: English

Director: Peter Jackson

FantasyHorrorComedy

In this darkly comedic fantasy, Frank Bannister, a charismatic con artist masquerading as an exorcist, finds himself entangled in a series of bizarre murders. As he delves deeper into the supernatural mystery, his own secrets are revealed, and he must confront the possibility that the truth is far more sinister than any ghostly apparition.

Warning: spoilers below!

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Timeline – The Frighteners (1996)
Trace every key event in The Frighteners (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

Brutal Encounter

On a stormy night, the town of Fairwater is disrupted by a terrifying incident at the home of Patricia Bradley. As she screams for her life, her mother emerges with a shotgun to confront an ominous figure lurking in the shadows.

Night Patricia's home
2

Funeral Gathering

While the chaos unfolds at the Bradley residence, the townsfolk gather to pay their respects at a funeral. Amidst the somber mood, the local newspaper editor and her assistant delve into an inexplicable death that has gripped the community.

Day Fairwater
3

Arrival of Frank Bannister

Frank Bannister, a self-proclaimed psychic investigator, arrives at the funeral looking to sell his ghost-busting services. His presence is met with mixed reactions as he tries to capitalize on the town's recent tragedies, showing his questionable ethics.

Day Funeral
4

Volkswagen Mishap

After leaving the funeral, Frank faces an unfortunate accident with his dilapidated Volkswagen. The incident enrages a neighbor named Ray Lynskey, whose cherished garden gnome is tragically destroyed in the process.

Day Fairwater
5

Doctor's Visit

Doctor Lucy Lynskey visits Patricia Bradley to treat her injuries only to find her in a fragile state. Lucy's concern grows as Patricia's mother dismisses any need for further medical attention, hinting at deeper issues at play.

Day Bradley residence
6

Documentary Discovery

Curious about Patricia's past, Lucy watches a documentary on the infamous serial killer Johnny Bartlett. The horrific acts committed at the Fairwater Sanatorium ignite a chilling connection between Patricia and the sinister history of the town.

Night Lucy's home
7

Supernatural Incidents

As Lucy and Ray contemplate their future together, supernatural occurrences begin to plague them. Objects levitate in their bedroom, signaling that a dark presence is at work, thrusting them further into the mystery.

Night Ray and Lucy's home
8

Frank Attempts Exorcism

Frank arrives to clear the energy in the house but discovers a glowing number on Ray's forehead indicating the gravity of their predicament. This moment reveals the deeper, darker forces that are seeking to control their fates.

Night Ray and Lucy's home
9

The Reaper's Chase

As the haunting escalates, Frank is pursued by a vengeful reaper who is intent on collecting innocent souls. The stakes rise as Frank works to confront the repercussions of his past while trying to save Lucy.

Night Various locations in Fairwater
10

Unraveling the Vendetta

In a crucial twist, Frank uncovers that the series of deaths in Fairwater is linked to an ancient vendetta. This revelation connects him directly to the tragedies haunting the town and clarifies his role in the unfolding events.

Night Fairwater
11

Final Confrontation

The climax leads Frank and Lucy to a derelict psychiatric hospital where they confront the reaper. Ghostly encounters and unexpected truths emerge as Frank battles not only spirits but also his own phantoms from the past.

Night Psychiatric hospital
12

Claiming Victories

After a fierce struggle, Frank faces his demons and attempts to reclaim his life. Lucy's safety becomes paramount, as the couple strives to rid Fairwater of Johnny Bartlett's malevolent influence.

Night Psychiatric hospital
13

Reckoning with the Past

In the aftermath of the confrontation, Frank must come to terms with his past deeds and their impact on his future. As the dust settles, he contemplates a new beginning with Lucy amid lingering dark forces.

Dawn Fairwater
14

Blurred Lines

The film concludes with a reflection on the blurred boundaries between life and death. Frank's journey not only alters his reality but also leaves an indelible mark on the town, forever changing its course.

Dawn Fairwater

Last Updated: November 08, 2024 at 00:37

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