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Plot Summary

Discover the intricate plot of City of Ember (2008). 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 futuristic tale set in September 14, 2088 A.D., society grapples with the aftermath of a devastating nuclear war. The builders of the underground city of Ember left behind crucial instructions in a box designed to open on its own. Sadly, one of the influential mayors perished without revealing the existence of this vital box, leading to its abandonment in a closet, forgotten through the ages.

Fast forward to September 18, 2416 A.D., in a world marked by the desolation of Earth. Lina Mayfleet and Doon Harrow are two resourceful children living in Ember who embark on a daring mission to rescue their faltering city. As the lights of Ember begin to flicker and food supplies dwindle, the urgency of their task escalates.

Doon secures a position at the Pipeworks, where he is determined to mend the failing generator, while Lina, initially a simple messenger, finds herself entwined in a deeper mystery. When she stumbles upon the long-lost box of instructions from the city’s builders, the adventure truly begins.

Together, Lina and Doon face perilous challenges as they uncover a potential escape from Ember, but their quest is obstructed by corrupt officials and a deceitful mayor. Undeterred, they demonstrate remarkable bravery and resilience, all fueled by their unwavering commitment to rescue their fellow citizens from the dark fate that looms over their beloved city.

“With courage and heart, we can brave the darkness.”

Timeline

Track the key events of City of Ember (2008) with a comprehensive timeline. Perfect for understanding the sequence of major plot points, this feature offers clarity on how the story unfolds.


Nuclear War Devastation

In September 14, 2088 A.D., society is left reeling from the catastrophic effects of a nuclear war. The remnants of civilization grapple with the fallout, leading to a desperate scramble for survival.

September 14, 2088 A.D.

Construction of Ember

The builders of the underground city of Ember create a life-sustaining haven designed to protect humanity. They leave behind a crucial set of instructions locked in a box that is meant to open when the time is right, ensuring the survival of the city.

Ember

The Mayor's Demise

An influential mayor of Ember unexpectedly passes away without revealing the existence of the vital instructions box. His untimely death leads to the box being forgotten and abandoned in a closet, lost to future generations.

Ember

Desolation of Earth

By September 18, 2416 A.D., Earth is a shadow of its former self, with Ember existing as one of the last bastions of civilization. The inhabitants are faced with dwindling resources and increasing despair.

September 18, 2416 A.D. Earth

Children of Ember

Lina Mayfleet and Doon Harrow, two brave and resourceful children in Ember, realize their city is in grave danger. As food supplies diminish and the city's lights begin to flicker, they come to understand the urgency of their situation.

Ember

Doon's New Role

Doon secures a position at the Pipeworks, driven by a desire to repair the failing generator. His understanding of the city's infrastructure fuels his determination to save Ember from impending doom.

Pipeworks, Ember

Lina's Discovery

While performing her duties as a messenger, Lina discovers the long-lost box of instructions from the builders of Ember. This pivotal moment leads her and Doon to embark on an adventure that could change the fate of their city.

Ember

Uncovering the Escape

As Lina and Doon delve deeper into the mystery of the instructions, they uncover hints of a possible escape route from Ember. Excitement mixes with apprehension as they begin to map out their daring plan to save their city.

Ember

Facing Corruption

The duo soon faces significant obstacles in the form of corrupt officials and a deceitful mayor. Their attempts to rescue Ember and its citizens are met with backlash, testing their resolve and resourcefulness.

Ember

Demonstrating Bravery

Despite the threats against them, Lina and Doon exemplify remarkable bravery and resilience. Their commitment to their fellow citizens drives them to persevere against overwhelming odds, illustrating the power of hope.

Ember

The Urgent Mission

As the conditions in Ember grow direr, Lina and Doon's sense of urgency intensifies. They understand that without immediate action, their beloved city may plunge into irreversible darkness.

Ember

The Choice to Act

With the knowledge they possess and the support of some trusted friends, Lina and Doon make the choice to act. They set out on their mission not only to save themselves but also to ensure the survival of their community.

Ember

Hope in the Heart

Despite the darkness encroaching upon Ember, Lina and Doon hold on to hope. The famous quote, 'With courage and heart, we can brave the darkness,' becomes their guiding principle as they strive to overcome challenges.

Ember

Journey to Rescue

As Lina and Doon navigate through their city's hidden passages, their teamwork and determination reveal their deep bond. Their journey becomes not just a physical escape but a testament to the strength of friendship.

Ember

Characters

Meet the characters that bring City of Ember (2008) to life. Dive into detailed profiles of the cast and their roles, exploring their motivations, relationships, and arcs within the story.


Lina Mayfleet

Lina Mayfleet is a courageous and resourceful young girl whose role as a messenger evolves into an essential part of her city's salvation. Driven by her sense of duty and curiosity, she tenaciously uncovers the forgotten box of instructions that may hold the key to Ember’s survival. Her strength and determination make her a beacon of hope for her fellow citizens.

👧🏼 Protagonist 🚀 Resourceful

Doon Harrow

Doon Harrow is an intelligent and determined boy who is deeply concerned about the failing infrastructure of Ember. His practical skills enable him to work in the Pipeworks, where he tries to restore the city's power. Alongside Lina, he showcases exceptional bravery and insight, as they confront the challenges posed by their environment and corrupt leadership.

👦🏼 Protagonist 💪 Determined

Setting

Uncover the settings of City of Ember (2008), 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

September 14, 2088 A.D. - September 18, 2416 A.D.

The story unfolds in a future shaped by the devastation of nuclear war, significantly deterring human life on the surface. By the year 2416, the remnants of civilization are sheltered underground in Ember, where the challenges of survival are heightened as resources become scarce.

Location

Ember

Ember is a subterranean city built as a refuge after a catastrophic nuclear war, designed to protect its inhabitants from the desolation of the surface. However, as the city's power source begins to fail, its existence hangs in the balance. It is characterized by its flickering lights and dwindling resources, contributing to a sense of urgency and danger for its residents.

🏙️ City 🌍 Futuristic

Themes

Explore the core themes of City of Ember (2008). From its commentary on social issues to its emotional undertones, delve into the deeper messages woven into the film’s story.


🕵️‍♂️

Adventure

The central theme of adventure is embodied in the daring quest of two children, Lina and Doon, as they confront numerous challenges in their search for a way to save their city. Their determination to unveil secrets and overcome obstacles mirrors the essential nature of exploration and courage. Their journey is not only about physical escape but also about finding hope in dire circumstances.

Resilience

Resilience is portrayed through Lina and Doon's unwavering commitment to their mission, even in the face of corruption and despair. They symbolize the human spirit's ability to endure and thrive, inspiring their fellow citizens to join them in the fight against darkness. This theme highlights the importance of courage and the belief that change is possible, no matter how dire the situation.

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