The Missing

The Missing

Year: 2003

Runtime: 137 min

Language: English

Director: Ron Howard

AdventureThrillerWestern

A determined mother, Maggie Gilkeson, undertakes a dangerous search through the wilderness to rescue her daughter, who has been abducted by a ruthless adversary possessing mystical abilities. She reluctantly joins forces with her estranged father, confronting both external threats and her own personal struggles along the way. This gripping adventure thriller explores themes of family, resilience, and the fight against overwhelming darkness.

Warning: spoilers below!

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Timeline & Setting – The Missing (2003)

Explore the full timeline and setting of The Missing (2003). Follow every major event in chronological order and see how the environment shapes the story, characters, and dramatic tension.

Time period

1885

The year 1885 was a time of significant tension and transformation in the American West. As settlers encroached on indigenous lands, conflicts arose, and longstanding family ties were often strained by the harsh realities of frontier life. This period is critical in shaping the characters' experiences and motivations throughout the film.

Location

New Mexico

New Mexico, known for its vast deserts and rugged wilderness, serves as a harsh backdrop for the film. The landscape embodies both beauty and danger, illustrating the struggles of its characters as they navigate their tumultuous relationships. It is a place where isolation and survival are paramount, reflecting the internal conflicts faced by the characters.

🏜️ Desert 🌄 Wilderness

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 20:33

Main Characters – The Missing (2003)

Meet the key characters of The Missing (2003), with detailed profiles, motivations, and roles in the plot. Understand their emotional journeys and what they reveal about the film’s deeper themes.

Maggie Gilkeson

Maggie is a resilient prairie doctor focused on providing for her daughters amidst a harsh environment. Her deep-seated resentment towards her father complicates her character, showcasing her strength and vulnerability. As the story unfolds, she is forced to confront her past and work with her father to save her daughter.

👩‍⚕️ Strong Woman 💔 Family Ties 🌾 Prairie Life

The Father

Maggie's estranged father embodies the conflicts between his past choices and present responsibilities. Having lived among the Indians for two decades, he seeks redemption and connection with his daughter. His character reveals the challenges of reconciling a painful past with the desire to be a part of his family's future.

👴 Redemption 🌍 Indigenous Relations 🌪️ Conflict

Lilly

Lilly, portrayed as Maggie's eldest daughter, is a symbol of innocence caught in turmoil. Her kidnapping acts as the catalyst for the family's reunion and highlights the stakes of their fractured relationships. Her strength and courage in dire circumstances make her a pivotal character.

👧 Innocence 🕊️ Hope 🚨 Kidnapping

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 20:33

Major Themes – The Missing (2003)

Explore the central themes of The Missing (2003), from psychological, social, and emotional dimensions to philosophical messages. Understand what the film is really saying beneath the surface.

🧩 Family Reconciliation

The theme of family reconciliation is central to the story as Maggie struggles with her feelings towards her estranged father. Their forced alliance in the face of danger highlights the complexities of familial bonds and the process of healing. It illustrates that connection and forgiveness are sometimes necessary for survival and personal growth.

🐍 Survival

Survival in a hostile environment is a prevalent theme, demonstrated by Maggie's fight to protect her daughters in the face of adversity. The kidnapping of Lilly thrusts the characters into a dangerous journey, testing their resolve and forcing them to confront both external threats and internal demons. This theme emphasizes the lengths one will go for family.

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 20:33

Unlock the Full Story of The Missing

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

The Missing Summary

Read a complete plot summary of The Missing, 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 Missing Summary

The Missing Timeline

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

The Missing Timeline

More About The Missing

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

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