Directed by
Daniel Farrands
Made by
Saban Films
Discover the intricate plot of The Haunting of Sharon Tate (2019). 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.
As August 1968 settled over the sun-drenched hills of Los Angeles, actress Sharon Tate recounted a harrowing nightmare to a journalist that left her haunted. In this vivid dream, she and her friend Jay Sebring, who was once her lover, faced the horrific scenario of having their throats cruelly slashed. Fast forward a year, and Sharon’s joy knew no bounds as she returned home from a six-month adventure in Europe where she filmed The Thirteen Chairs, now carrying the promise of a child. Her reunion with Jay was only the beginning, as her friend Abigail “Gibby” Folger, along with her boyfriend Wojciech Frykowski, rounded out their cozy group. Meanwhile, Sharon’s husband, Roman Polanski, was in Europe diligently working on his script for The Day of the Dolphin, assuring his expectant wife he would return in time for their baby’s arrival.
On that fateful night, as the stars sparkled overhead, Sharon disclosed her concerns to Jay about the possibility of Roman having an affair. Despite Jay’s comforting insight, Sharon remained steadfast in her determination to save their marriage for their child’s sake. The very next day, unease enveloped Sharon when she discovered that Steven Parent, a new caretaker, had set up his quarters in a trailer on the premises without her knowledge. When she inquired about the former caretaker, she received a chilling response: “He hasn’t been around in awhile.” Later that evening, amidst laughter and good spirits, Wojciech answered the door to find Charles Manson standing there, searching for music producer Terry Melcher, but Wojciech politely informed him of his mistake, sending Manson away.
The next morning brought an unsettling stroll with Abigail through the hills, where they stumbled upon two strange women and the lifeless body of Sharon’s beloved dog. This gruesome discovery sent a jolt through her, followed by the eerie find of Manson’s folk music recording left behind by Melcher, awakening memories of her nightmare and an ominous feeling of dread. Later, as concerns mounted, Sharon confided her feelings of suffocation due to Abigail and Wojciech’s extended visit, yearning for solitude. That night, Abigail spotted a mysterious figure watching her from outside the window, while Sharon was drawn into another disturbing nightmare where she, Jay, Abigail, and Wojciech were brutally murdered by those who would soon become sinister shadows in their lives: Tex Watson, Patricia Krenwinkel, and Susan Atkins.
As the threads of paranoia began weaving a darker tapestry, Sharon became increasingly convinced that Manson’s cult was orchestrating a lethal plot against her. Her fears, however, were dismissed as mere delusions by Abigail and Wojciech. Undaunted, Sharon sought help from Steven, who skillfully decoded a recorded conversation with Manson, revealing subliminal messages that ominously flashed “Helter Skelter.” This revelation only intensified her fears; her nightmares burgeoned, foreshadowing a dark fate. Believing time was running out, Steven dashed to start his car, only to find the cult’s followers encroaching upon them. In a frantic attempt to escape the lethal grip of danger, they fled on foot, with Tex pursuing them relentlessly.
Desperate to find safety, Sharon, Abigail, Steven, and Wojciech attempted to barricade their home, only to realize that their power had been cut. Just as Jay arrived, so did Tex, identifying himself as the devil incarnate, there to carry out “the devil’s business.” As chaos erupted, Tex and Susan forced the group into their living room, binding Steven and Wojciech. Seizing an opportunity, Sharon grabbed a penknife and fought back, liberating Jay in the process. In the subsequent turmoil, Abigail exacted vengeance, striking Susan with a deadly blow.
Retreating to Steven’s trailer, the group found Patricia on a hunt for Wojciech. She discovered him, and despite her sinister intentions, he resisted fiercely, leading to a violent confrontation in the bathtub. Although injured, Tex managed to track the group down just as they attempted to call for help using a CB radio. The suspense climaxed with a critical blow from Steven’s shovel, followed by Sharon’s desperate shot that put an end to Tex’s relentless pursuit.
As dawn broke, the beleaguered group emerged cautiously towards their home, leaving behind a scene of horror with Patricia’s lifeless body. Upon reaching the house, Sharon was horrified to uncover her own corpse alongside Jay, Wojciech, and Abigail. The chilling realization hit her: her “premonitions” were indeed memories. All were trapped in a post-mortal limbo, endlessly reliving their fate. With this profound understanding, Sharon, Jay, Abigail, Wojciech, and Steven, each clasping their lifeless unborn child, walked away from the house, resigned to their eternal reality.
Track the key events of The Haunting of Sharon Tate (2019) with a comprehensive timeline. Perfect for understanding the sequence of major plot points, this feature offers clarity on how the story unfolds.
Sharon's Nightmare
In August 1968, actress Sharon Tate recounts a harrowing nightmare to a journalist. She dreams of herself and her former lover Jay Sebring facing the horrific scenario of having their throats slashed, leaving her haunted by the vision.
Return from Europe
Sharon returns home from a six-month adventure in Europe where she filmed 'The Thirteen Chairs'. She is overjoyed, particularly as she is expecting a child, marking a significant turning point in her life.
Reunion with Friends
Sharon reunites with Jay Sebring, along with her friends Abigail Folger and Wojciech Frykowski, who join them in a cozy gathering. The interactions reflect their shared history and the comfort of companionship amidst their lives in Hollywood.
Concerns of Infidelity
One evening, under a star-studded sky, Sharon expresses her worries to Jay about Roman Polanski, her husband, potentially having an affair. Despite Jay's reassurances, she resolves to do everything possible to save their marriage for the sake of their unborn child.
Discovery of Caretaker
The following day, Sharon finds out about Steven Parent, a new caretaker who has set up his quarters on the property without her prior knowledge. This discovery makes her uneasy, especially when she learns the previous caretaker has mysteriously disappeared.
Encounter with Charles Manson
Later that evening, Wojciech opens the door to Charles Manson, who is looking for music producer Terry Melcher. After being courteously turned away, Manson's visit raises unsettling questions about who else may be tracking them.
Gruesome Discovery
The next morning, Sharon and Abigail stumble upon the lifeless body of Sharon's dog, which is a grim reminder of the dangers surrounding them. This shocking event occurs alongside their encounter with two strange women, adding to Sharon's growing sense of dread.
Fears of Manson's Cult
As paranoia grows, Sharon confides in Steven about her concerns regarding Manson's cult targeting her. Despite dismissals from Abigail and Wojciech, her distress deepens as she decodes a recorded conversation revealing ominous messages.
Frantic Escape Attempt
In a desperate bid for safety, Sharon, Abigail, Steven, and Wojciech attempt to barricade themselves inside their home. However, they soon realize the power has been cut, leaving them vulnerable to the menacing presence of Manson's followers.
Confrontation
As chaos erupts, Tex, one of Manson's cult members, identifies himself and begins carrying out the harrowing 'devil's business'. In the ensuing turmoil, Sharon fights back, using a penknife in a desperate attempt to save her friends.
Desperate Measures
Sharply driven by the threat posed by Patricia, Wojciech fights back in a violent confrontation. As the group's clashes with Manson's cult escalate, injuries and chaos lead to a grim struggle for survival.
Tragic Realization
As dawn breaks, Sharon and the remnant of her group leave behind the horror at their home, only to be confronted with the shocking sight of their lifeless bodies. Sharon realizes that her nightmares were premonitions of their tragic fate.
Eternal Limbo
The group, now resigned to their reality, comes to terms with their post-mortal existence. Together they move away from the site of their own demise, bound by the shared understanding of their eternal fate and lost lives.
Meet the characters that bring The Haunting of Sharon Tate (2019) to life. Dive into detailed profiles of the cast and their roles, exploring their motivations, relationships, and arcs within the story.
Sharon Tate
Sharon Tate is a vulnerable yet strong character who grapples with harrowing premonitions of death amid her joyous expectations of motherhood. Her efforts to save her marriage and protect her loved ones reveal her determination and inner strength. Sharon is depicted as a tragic figure entwined in her own fate, embodying both grace and despair.
Jay Sebring
Jay Sebring is portrayed as a supportive confidant and former lover of Sharon, embodying loyalty and care even as he faces imminent danger. His comforting presence provides a sense of security amid chaos, although he too falls victim to the impending doom. Jay's character highlights the complexities of love amidst betrayal and fear.
Steven Parent
Steven Parent is a new caretaker whose arrival adds an unsettling layer to the already tense atmosphere. His character is pivotal in uncovering the sinister intentions of Charles Manson's cult. Despite his intent to serve, he becomes an unintended catalyst for the unfolding horror.
Charles Manson
Charles Manson is the embodiment of malevolence in the film, introducing an ominous threat against Sharon and her friends. His chilling demeanor and manipulative nature underline the danger posed by his cult, representing the darker side of human psychology. Manson's shadow looms large, heightening the sense of dread throughout the narrative.
Uncover the settings of The Haunting of Sharon Tate (2019), 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
August 1968
August 1968 was a time of great social change in the United States, characterized by the civil rights movement and a growing counterculture. The entertainment industry was thriving, with many stars emerging as cultural icons. However, it was also a period marked by violence and unrest, foreshadowing the tragic events that would unfold.
Location
Los Angeles
Los Angeles is a vibrant and sprawling city known for its entertainment industry and sunny weather. The sun-drenched hills surrounding it provide a picturesque backdrop, making it a symbol of Hollywood glamour and allure. It's also a place of stark contrasts, where dreams can quickly turn into a nightmare.
Explore the core themes of The Haunting of Sharon Tate (2019). 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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Premonition
The theme of premonition dominates the narrative as Sharon Tate experiences chilling dreams that eerily foreshadow her fate. These vivid nightmares serve as warnings, reflecting the anxiety and dread she feels about her future. The interplay between dreams and reality creates a tension that permeates the film.
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Love & Betrayal
The complexities of love and betrayal are explored through Sharon's tumultuous relationships, particularly with Jay Sebring and her husband, Roman Polanski. As her fears of infidelity take center stage, the emotional weight of these themes highlights the fragility of trust amid impending doom.
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Violence
Violence looms large in the story, symbolized by both the literal and psychological threats faced by the characters. The film captures the brutality of life and the lurking danger that emerges from darkness. This theme serves as a stark reminder of the unpredictability of fate and the fragility of life.
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