The Prowler

The Prowler

Year: 1981

Runtime: 89 min

Language: English

Director: Joseph Zito

MysteryThrillerHorror

Haunted by a traumatic past, a war-torn veteran seeks vengeance against those who wronged him decades ago. But when he sets his sights on a new generation of innocents, the lines between justice and madness blur, unleashing a terrifying game of cat-and-mouse that will leave no one unscathed.

Warning: spoilers below!

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Timeline – The Prowler (1981)
Trace every key event in The Prowler (1981) 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

End of World War II

World War II comes to a conclusion, marking a significant moment in history. Newsreel footage highlights the triumphant return of soldiers from Europe, celebrating their bravery and sacrifices during the war.

March 12, 1945
2

Letter from Rosemary

In a heartfelt letter dated March 12, 1945, Rosemary expresses her turmoil over waiting for her overseas lover. She hints at wanting to shift from romance to friendship, signalling a change in her life circumstances.

March 12, 1945
3

Graduation Dance Preparations

On the evening of June 28, 1945, the small seaside town of Avalon Bay buzzes with excitement as townsfolk prepare for a long-awaited graduation dance. G.I.s serve as escorts for their dates, creating a festive and joyful atmosphere.

June 28, 1945 Avalon Bay, New Jersey
4

A Romantic Interlude

Amid the festivities, Rosemary and her new boyfriend, Roy, seek a romantic escape to a picturesque gazebo by a nearby lake. They find a moment of intimacy, surrounded by twinkling lights, enjoying the bliss of young love.

June 28, 1945 Gazebo near the lake
5

The Shocking Attack

Their romantic moment takes a terrifying turn when a mysterious figure appears, brandishing a pitchfork. Just as Rosemary and Roy embrace, the figure plunges the pitchfork into them both, leading to a horrific end to their evening.

June 28, 1945 Gazebo near the lake
6

The Killer's Gesture

After committing the heinous act, the assailant leaves a long-stemmed red rose in Rosemary’s lifeless hand. This chilling gesture serves as a haunting reminder of the violence that shattered the evening and will linger over the town forever.

June 28, 1945 Gazebo near the lake
7

35 Years Later

Fast forward 35 years, the town of Avalon Bay seeks to revive its graduation dance after decades of silence. The anticipation is palpable, yet the shadow of past tragedies looms over the festivities.

Avalon Bay, New Jersey
8

Pam Meets the Sheriff

Pam MacDonald consults Sheriff George Fraser about the upcoming dance. Their conversation reveals the apprehension surrounding the event due to memories of the gruesome murders that once plagued the town.

June 28, 1980 Sheriff's office
9

Upcoming Danger

As Pam and Sheriff Fraser discuss the dance, they learn about a robbery and murder that occurred in a nearby town. This unsettling news raises alarms, suggesting that the perpetrator might be targeting Avalon Bay next.

June 28, 1980 Avalon Bay, New Jersey
10

Unfolding Romance

Pam spends time with Deputy Mark London, and their chemistry begins to blossom. She confides her fears about the potential danger as they enjoy a lunch date, unaware of the threats looming in the shadows.

June 28, 1980 Local café
11

Sherry's Fatal Encounter

As Sherry prepares for the dance, she has an unexpected visit from Carl. This encounter quickly turns deadly when the masked killer violently attacks Carl, marking the first victim of a new wave of terror.

June 28, 1980 Dormitory
12

Pam's Realization

After a frustrating night at the dance, Pam returns to find things are not as they seem. Hearing the shower running, she approaches only to stumble upon a horrifying scene that signals the killer’s return.

June 28, 1980 Dormitory
13

Search for Truth

Pam and Mark team up to investigate Major Chatham's home, uncovering a scrapbook connected to Rosemary. This discovery deepens the mystery as they warn others about the imminent danger at the dance.

June 28, 1980 Major Chatham's house
14

Confrontation with Evil

The night devolves into chaos as the presence of the masked killer wreaks havoc at the dance. In a shocking twist, Sheriff Fraser is revealed to be the murderer, turning the community’s trust upside down.

June 28, 1980 Dance hall, Avalon Bay
15

Aftermath of Horror

The morning after the dance, Pam faces the chilling reality of the events that unfolded. The legacy of that tragic night and the grisly confrontation leave a haunting impact on the surviving townsfolk.

June 29, 1980 Avalon Bay

Last Updated: October 25, 2024 at 12:21

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