Time After Time

Time After Time

Year: 1979

Runtime: 112 min

Language: english

Director: Nicholas Meyer

AdventureSci-FiDramaThriller

In this thrilling adventure, a journalist finds himself hurtling through time and confronting the consequences of his own destiny. As he relives memories of his past on Long Island, the lines between reality and prophecy blur, setting him on a perilous journey to reshape his future.

Warning: spoilers below!

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Timeline & Setting – Time After Time (1979)
Explore the full timeline and setting of Time After Time (1979). Follow every major event in chronological order and see how the environment shapes the story, characters, and dramatic tension.

Time period

1893, 1979

The film transitions between two distinct time periods: the late Victorian era of 1893, characterized by rapid technological advances and social change, and the late 1970s, a time marked by cultural upheaval and various social issues. This juxtaposition highlights the evolving perceptions of society's progress across the decades.

Location

London, San Francisco

The story unfolds in two prominent locations: London in 1893 and San Francisco in 1979. London is known for its rich history and culture, serving as the backdrop for H.G. Wells' introduction of his time machine. San Francisco, on the other hand, presents a modern yet chaotic reality in the late 20th century, showcasing a contrast to Wells' expectations of a peaceful future.

🏙️ City 🇬🇧 England 🇺🇸 USA

Last Updated: January 14, 2025 at 22:10

Main Characters – Time After Time (1979)
Meet the key characters of Time After Time (1979), with detailed profiles, motivations, and roles in the plot. Understand their emotional journeys and what they reveal about the film’s deeper themes.

H.G. Wells (Malcolm McDowell)

H.G. Wells is the protagonist, a visionary writer whose creation of a time machine leads him on a perilous chase through time. He embodies intellectual curiosity and a strong moral compass, often finding himself at odds with the violent tendencies of his time. His character showcases a blend of naivete and determination as he navigates the complexities of both love and justice.

📚 Writer 🔍 Determined 💔 Romantic

John Leslie Stevenson (David Warner)

John Leslie Stevenson is a manipulatively charming character who serves as the film's antagonist. As a time-traveling serial killer, he presents a stark contrast to Wells, reveling in the chaos and violence of modern society. His dark obsession with brutality marks him as a embodiment of humanity's darker side against Wells' idealistic views.

🔫 Killer 🎭 Manipulator 😈 Charismatic

Amy Robbins (Mary Steenburgen)

Amy Robbins is a liberated bank employee who becomes the object of Wells' affection. She is a strong-willed and resourceful woman whose character evolves from skepticism to embracing the adventure through time. Her vulnerability amidst the unfolding violence showcases her depth, ultimately cementing her role as a significant ally and love interest for Wells.

❤️ Love Interest 💼 Independent 👩‍🎤 Modern

Last Updated: January 14, 2025 at 22:10

Major Themes – Time After Time (1979)
Explore the central themes of Time After Time (1979), from psychological, social, and emotional dimensions to philosophical messages. Understand what the film is really saying beneath the surface.

⏳ Time Travel

Time travel is the central theme of the film, exploring the implications and paradoxes that arise when characters traverse different eras. H.G. Wells' journey into the future serves to critique contemporary society through the lens of a bygone era. The narrative probes into the morality and responsibility associated with the ability to manipulate time.

💔 Love and Sacrifice

The romance between H.G. Wells and Amy Robbins develops amidst the chaos of their predicament, emphasizing the theme of love in the face of danger. Herbert's ultimate sacrifice to protect Amy underscores the lengths one will go to for loved ones, reminding the audience of the fragility of life and the importance of connection.

🗡️ Violence vs. Civilization

The film contrasts the expectations of an enlightened society with the harsh realities of violence and crime present in both the past and future. Through the character of John Leslie Stevenson, the story grapples with humanity's darker instincts and questions the notion of progress in civilization.

Last Updated: January 14, 2025 at 22:10

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