30 Days of Night 2007
Directed by
David Slade
Made by
Sony Pictures Releasing
Plot Summary
Discover the intricate plot of 30 Days of Night (2007). From unexpected twists to emotional highs and lows, this detailed summary breaks down every moment to give you a deeper understanding of the film’s story.
In the isolated town of Barrow, Alaska, situated on the Arctic Circle, residents are bracing themselves for the annual “30 Days of Night,” a dark winter period where the sun will not rise. As this unique time approaches, many choose to leave for the sunnier Fairbanks or other southern locales. Amidst the preparations, a mysterious figure known as The Stranger, portrayed by Ben Foster, arrives by boat and begins a sinister campaign to wreak havoc on the town.
With the local sheriff, Eben Oleson, played by Josh Hartnett, keenly investigating sabotage, he soon discovers that his estranged wife, Stella, played by Melissa George, has missed the last flight out. This unexpected reunion brings tension as they both confront the looming danger that comes with the darkness. After an intense encounter with The Stranger in a diner, they manage to subdue him and take him to the station house, but not before he taunts them about the impending doom.
Just as the town begins to comprehend the magnitude of their situation, vampires launch a horrific assault on the telecommunications center, plunging Barrow into total darkness and isolation from the outside world. Within this grim context, Eben discovers a gruesome sight—an operator’s head mounted on a pike, igniting a determination in him and Stella to uncover the source of the terror beleaguering their home.
Led by the ancient and malevolent Marlow, skillfully acted by Danny Huston, the vampires wreak havoc, killing nearly indiscriminately and revealing their monstrous nature, as they require beheading to be truly killed. In a desperate attempt to survive, the townsfolk gather in the local diner, where strategies for safety are weighed heavily against the visceral fear of the undead encroaching on their shelter.
As days pass, Eben, Stella, and their small band of survivors find refuge in a hidden attic of a former resident’s house. They wrestle with their choices under growing tension, as they face the reality of dwindling hope and increasing casualties among their ranks. Eben learns that creative solutions, such as utilizing the blizzard for cover, may provide a route to safety, yet the fight becomes increasingly dire with each passing moment.
In a pivotal scene, Eben risks everything to reach his grandmother’s house filled with hazardous plants, using antibiotics to combat the vampires’ threat. His heroic efforts ultimately attract the malevolent attention of the vampires, culminating in explosive confrontations with Marlow, leading to further tragedies that test the limits of survival.
With the dawn nearing, the remaining survivors, including Stella and a young girl, find themselves cornered by flames set by the vampires to eliminate evidence of their rampage. In a moment of desperation, Eben makes the ultimate sacrifice, injecting himself with the blood of his fallen companion, transforming him into something that can face the vampires. A climactic battle ensues between him and Marlow, forcing the others to witness the horrific reality that humans can endure.
In the final moments, as light breaks over the horizon, Stella cradles Eben, grappling with the loss of humanity as he perishes in the sunlight, leaving behind a poignant reminder of their struggle against darkness, both within and outside.
Timeline
Track the key events of 30 Days of Night (2007) with a comprehensive timeline. Perfect for understanding the sequence of major plot points, this feature offers clarity on how the story unfolds.
Approaching the 30 Days of Night
The residents of Barrow, Alaska, prepare for the eerie season known as the '30 Days of Night,' where the sun will not rise. Many townsfolk decide to escape to sunnier regions like Fairbanks to avoid the coming darkness.
Arrival of The Stranger
A mysterious figure known as The Stranger arrives in town by boat, bringing an ominous presence. His intentions quickly become clear as he begins a terrifying campaign to escalate chaos in Barrow.
Sheriff's Investigation
Sheriff Eben Oleson starts investigating a series of peculiar sabotages occurring in the town. The situation escalates when he learns his estranged wife, Stella, has missed her flight out, forcing them to confront their past amidst the looming danger.
Capture of The Stranger
After encountering The Stranger in a diner, Eben and Stella manage to subdue him and take him to the station house. However, before they can secure him, he ominously warns them of the destruction about to be unleashed upon Barrow.
Vampires Attack
The townsfolk are plunged into terror as a group of vampires assaults the telecommunications center. This horrific event cuts off Barrow from the outside world, isolating them in their darkest hour.
Discovery of Horror
Eben discovers a gruesome sight when he finds an operator's head mounted on a pike, which ignites his determination to protect the town. The gruesome reality of the vampire threat begins to dawn on Eben and Stella.
Townsfolk Seek Shelter
In a desperate bid for survival, the townsfolk gather in the local diner. They weigh their options carefully, fearful of the approaching undead, while attempting to devise strategies for safety.
Hiding in the Attic
Eben, Stella, and their small group of survivors find refuge in an attic of an abandoned house during the chaos. As they hide, their hopes diminish and they grapple with the harsh reality of their dwindling options.
Eben's Heroic Journey
Eben takes a significant risk by going to his grandmother's house to collect important medicinal plants. Utilizing the blizzard for cover, he hopes to gather supplies that might help combat the vampires’ threat.
Confrontation with Marlow
Eben's actions draw the attention of Marlow, the vampire leader, resulting in brutal confrontations. These encounters push the limits of their survival and further escalate the horror enveloping Barrow.
Cornered Survivors
As the dawn approaches, the remaining survivors become trapped by flames set by the vampires to cover their tracks. In their desperation, they must confront the reality of their dire situation as hope starts to fade.
Eben's Sacrifice
Eben makes the ultimate sacrifice by injecting himself with the blood of a fallen companion, transforming himself to face the vampires. This desperate decision leads to a climactic battle between him and Marlow.
Final Battle
The climactic battle erupts between Eben and Marlow, showcasing the brutal consequences of their fight against darkness. The remaining survivors watch in horror as this confrontation tests the limits of human endurance.
Dawn Breaks
As the first rays of light pierce the darkness, the tragedy of their struggle becomes evident. Stella holds Eben in his final moments, grappling with the loss of his humanity and the impact of their fight against the vampires.
Aftermath of the Night
With the dawn now fully arrived, the horrors of the night linger in the minds of the survivors. Stella is left with the poignant memory of their battle against darkness, both external and internal, as she reflects on her loss.
Characters
Meet the characters that bring 30 Days of Night (2007) to life. Dive into detailed profiles of the cast and their roles, exploring their motivations, relationships, and arcs within the story.
Eben Oleson (Josh Hartnett)
Eben Oleson, portrayed by Josh Hartnett, is the local sheriff and a determined protector of Barrow's residents. His character is marked by resilience and inner strength, as he faces both the external threat of vampires and the emotional turmoil of his estranged relationship with his wife, Stella. Eben's journey illustrates the bonds of love and the sacrifices made in moments of crisis.
Stella Oleson (Melissa George)
Stella, played by Melissa George, is Eben's estranged wife who embodies both vulnerability and courage. Her presence in Barrow during the crisis becomes pivotal as she confronts her feelings for Eben while fighting for survival. Stella's character evolves through the harrowing events, showcasing the human spirit's resilience.
The Stranger (Ben Foster)
The Stranger, portrayed by Ben Foster, is a mysterious figure whose arrival in Barrow heralds chaos. His sinister nature and manipulative tactics introduce the threat of vampires to the town. The character serves as a catalyst for the horrors that unfold, highlighting the unpredictability of evil.
Marlow (Danny Huston)
Marlow is the lead vampire and represents the relentless threat against the townspeople. His ancient and malevolent presence brings dread, leading the vampiric assault on Barrow. The character embodies the themes of predation and fear, exacerbating the terrifying reality of isolation.
Setting
Uncover the settings of 30 Days of Night (2007), from iconic locations to the time period that shapes its world. See how these elements add depth and context to the movie’s narrative.
Time period
Modern Day
The events of '30 Days of Night' occur in contemporary times, amidst the realities of modern life but impacted by the brutal Arctic winter. The struggle against the darkness and the chilling presence of vampires contrasts with the ordinary lives of the townspeople. This juxtaposition creates a tension that mirrors real-world fears of isolation and danger.
Location
Barrow, Alaska
Barrow, Alaska, known for its extreme Arctic conditions, is the northernmost city in the United States. During the winter months, the town experiences a polar night, where the sun doesn't rise for an extended period, contributing to its eerie atmosphere. This isolation makes it a stark setting for the chilling events that unfold in '30 Days of Night.'
Themes
Explore the core themes of 30 Days of Night (2007). From its commentary on social issues to its emotional undertones, delve into the deeper messages woven into the film’s story.
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Survival
Survival is a central theme of '30 Days of Night,' where characters are pushed to their limits against overwhelming odds. The struggle between the townsfolk and the vampires highlights human resilience in the face of terror. Eben’s ultimate sacrifice illustrates the lengths to which individuals will go to protect their loved ones.
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Loss
Loss permeates the narrative as characters confront the death of loved ones and the erosion of their humanity. Eben's transformation and Stella's grief amplify the emotional stakes of their fight. The theme is encapsulated in the bittersweet ending, where moments of hope are marred by the sacrifices made.
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