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As Above, So Below

As Above, So Below 2014

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Plot Summary

Discover the intricate plot of As Above, So Below (2014). 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 a gripping opening scene, a bus crosses the Iranian border as Scarlet Marlowe (Perdita Weeks), recording into her camera, shares her daring mission to unearth a historical artifact hidden in an impending demolition site. Aware of the dangers posed by Iranian authorities, she confidently quips, “They’ll have to catch me first.” Seeking access to the catacomb, she visits Reza ([Hamid Djavadan]), who cautions her about the urgency of their task. Despite her reassurances, they find themselves hiding from soldiers as they navigate the perilous site. Fueled by her determination to honor her late father’s legacy, Scarlet uncovers an intricately marked bull statue known as The Rose Key. However, their excitement is short-lived as the noise of an impending blast grows louder, prompting a frantic escape that Reza ultimately leads.

Later, during a filmed interview with her cameraman, Benjy (Edwin Hodge), Scarlet reveals her quest for the legendary Philosopher’s Stone, a mythic object believed to grant eternal life and the power to transmute metals into gold. As they delve into her father’s tragic history, a painful silence envelops the discussion of his past endeavors that culminated in his death.

The scene shifts to Paris, where they investigate the crypt of Nicolas Flamel, reputed for his supposed possession of the stone. Discovering that the graves of Flamel and his wife had been raided, Scarlet theorizes that a code marking could reveal the stone’s whereabouts. This leads them to George (Ben Feldman), who reluctantly agrees to assist in translating the cryptic clues, despite their complicated past. The stakes rise as they realize they need to explore under Flamel’s tomb, leading them to the catacombs, guided by a local named Papillion (François Civil).

As the group embarks on their clandestine journey through the catacombs, tension mounts with the sensation of unseen dangers lurking. They encounter chilling rituals, claustrophobic tunnels, and an ancient ritualistic piano that evokes George’s tragic memories. Soon, palpable fear manifests when they confront apparitions from their pasts, echoing haunting regrets—such as Benjy’s fatal fall or Papillion’s guilt over a lost friend.

Scarlet discovers the truth about her quest and her father’s legacy amid perilous challenges. Navigating through supernatural forces and twisted realities, she faces a choice that could save or doom them all. Alone, she ultimately locates a way to harness the power of the Philosopher’s Stone, understanding that acceptance of their burdens might offer salvation.

In a moving conclusion, the remaining trio takes a leap of faith—both literally and metaphorically—connecting their experiences to the core phrase, “As Above, So Below.” They emerge back onto the streets of Paris, forever changed. In a reflective interview, Scarlet reveals her true intention: to seek the wisdom and essence behind the legend, declaring, “I want the truth.” Thus, her journey becomes not just about golden myths, but the deeper truths we all combat.

Timeline

Track the key events of As Above, So Below (2014) with a comprehensive timeline. Perfect for understanding the sequence of major plot points, this feature offers clarity on how the story unfolds.


Border Crossing

In a gripping opening scene, Scarlet Marlowe records her daring mission while a bus crosses the Iranian border. She expresses confidence about evading the Iranian authorities, humorously stating that 'they'll have to catch me first.'

Iranian Border

Urgent Caution

Scarlet visits Reza, who warns her about the urgency of their task in seeking the historical artifact. Despite her reassurances, the duo unexpectedly finds themselves hiding from Iranian soldiers as they approach the perilous demolition site.

Demolition Site, Iran

Discovery of The Rose Key

Amid the danger, Scarlet uncovers The Rose Key, an intricately marked bull statue tied to her late father's legacy. Unfortunately, their excitement is cut short when they hear the sound of an impending blast, prompting a frantic escape led by Reza.

Demolition Site, Iran

Interview Reflection

During a filmed interview with her cameraman Benjy, Scarlet discusses her quest for the legendary Philosopher's Stone. The somber conversation reveals the tragic history surrounding her father's past endeavors, ultimately leading to his death.

Investigation in Paris

The scene shifts to Paris, where Scarlet and Benjy investigate the crypt of Nicolas Flamel, known for his alleged possession of the Philosopher's Stone. They discover that the graves of Flamel and his wife have been raided, hinting at hidden truths.

Paris

Code Marking Theory

Scarlet theorizes that a code marking on the graves could lead them to the Philosopher's Stone. To translate these cryptic clues, they seek assistance from George, who has a complicated past with Scarlet but reluctantly agrees to help.

Caving into the Catacombs

As the group prepares to explore under Flamel's tomb, they are introduced to Papillion, a local guide. This leads them deeper into the catacombs, where the atmosphere grows increasingly tense as hidden dangers seem to lurk around every corner.

Catacombs, Paris

Facing the Past

While navigating the claustrophobic tunnels of the catacombs, the group encounters chilling rituals and memories from their past. Supernatural apparitions emerge, forcing each character to confront their haunting regrets, including Benjy's fatal fall.

Catacombs, Paris

Uncovering the Truth

Amidst the chaos, Scarlet discovers profound truths about her quest and her father's legacy. As supernatural forces threaten them, she realizes that acceptance of their burdens may offer the salvation they desperately seek.

Catacombs, Paris

Leap of Faith

In a pivotal moment, the remaining trio takes a leap of faith both literally and metaphorically. This act symbolizes their resolve to confront their experiences and the shared philosophy of 'As Above, So Below.'

Catacombs, Paris

Emergence Back to Paris

After their harrowing journey through the catacombs, Scarlet, Benjy, and George emerge back onto the streets of Paris, forever changed by their experiences. The journey has linked their fates in unpredictable ways.

Paris

Seeking Deeper Truths

In her final interview, Scarlet clarifies her true intention in seeking the Philosopher’s Stone. She expresses a desire to uncover the wisdom and essence behind the legends, stating, 'I want the truth.'

Legacy of the Philosopher's Stone

Scarlet's journey transcends the myth of the Philosopher's Stone, becoming a quest for deeper truths against the backdrop of her father's legacy. This exploration reveals profoundly personal stakes intertwined with the legendary pursuit.

Characters

Meet the characters that bring As Above, So Below (2014) to life. Dive into detailed profiles of the cast and their roles, exploring their motivations, relationships, and arcs within the story.


Scarlet Marlowe

Scarlet is a determined and adventurous protagonist, driven by the desire to honor her father's legacy. Her tenacity and willingness to confront danger highlight her strong character traits, although her journey forces her to confront her past and the haunting truths that accompany it.

🎥 Protagonist 💖 Determination 👨‍👧 Legacy

Benjy

Benjy is Scarlet's cameraman, who experiences a personal crisis throughout the journey. He grapples with haunting memories and regrets, revealing a sensitive side that contrasts his role as a documentarian. His character serves to illustrate the trauma that can linger from past events.

🎥 Cameraman 😢 Regret 👤 Friendship

George

George reluctantly assists Scarlet in her quest, showcasing a complex past with her that adds tension to their interactions. His willingness to help despite his fears demonstrates his inherent bravery and connection to the quest's stakes.

🎥 Ally 🤝 Complexity 🗝️ Translator

Papillion

Papillion serves as a local guide who brings insights into the catacombs and helps navigate the dangers within. He carries his own burdens, including guilt over a lost friend, which adds depth to his character and motivations.

🎥 Guide 😔 Guilt 🗝️ Loyalty

Setting

Uncover the settings of As Above, So Below (2014), 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

Contemporary

The events of the movie unfold in a contemporary setting, reflecting modern-day challenges faced by adventurers and treasure hunters. The film addresses current themes of exploration while resonating with timeless human desires for legacy and truth.

Location

Paris, Iran

The film takes place in the vibrant city of Paris, known for its rich history and iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower and the Seine River. The story also begins in Iran, which is characterized by its ancient architecture and deep cultural heritage, creating a stark contrast as Scarlet embarks on her quest.

🏙️ City 🌍 International

Themes

Explore the core themes of As Above, So Below (2014). From its commentary on social issues to its emotional undertones, delve into the deeper messages woven into the film’s story.


🔍

Quest for Truth

The quest for the Philosopher's Stone symbolizes a deeper search for knowledge and understanding of one’s own identity. Scarlet's journey reflects the universal desire to confront past traumas and seek the truth about oneself, revealing the often painful nature of such pursuits.

👻

Supernatural Encounters

The film explores supernatural elements as characters confront apparitions and regrets from their pasts. This theme illustrates the psychological burdens that haunt individuals, emphasizing how unresolved issues can shape one’s reality and destiny.

🕯️

Legacy

Scarlet's motivation is driven by her father's legacy, highlighting the significance of familial ties and history. The pursuit of the Philosopher's Stone becomes a metaphor for honoring those who came before us and understanding the weight of their aspirations.

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