Above the Shadows 2019

Fantasy

Romance

Box Office

$1.6K

Runtime

111 min

Language

English

Directed by

Claudia Myers

Made by

Gravitas Ventures

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Plot Summary

Read the complete plot summary and ending explained for Above the Shadows (2019). From turning points to emotional moments, uncover what really happened and why it matters.

After the tragic passing of her mother, a young woman named Holly, portrayed by Olivia Thirlby, has quietly faded into the background of life, becoming so invisible that her own family, educators, and classmates no longer acknowledge her presence. For over a decade, she has had to navigate the periphery of society, her life feeling like a mere shadow. Holly, now working as a tabloid detective, utilizes her keen investigative skills to expose cheating scandals among the rich and famous. However, her life takes an unexpected turn when she encounters Shayne Blackwell, an exiled MMA fighter played by Alan Ritchson.

In a twist of fate, Shayne proves to be the one individual who can truly see Holly. As she uncovers his infidelity, exposing his unfaithfulness to his girlfriend, the cracks in Shayne’s life begin to widen. Their connection grows complex as Holly realizes that her revelation has led to Shayne’s fall from grace. Intrigued by the idea that he might help restore her visibility in the world, Holly becomes deeply invested in Shayne’s journey back to prominence.

However, things become increasingly complicated when Shayne shares an unexpected kiss with his ex-girlfriend, Juliana, played by Megan Fox, after she assists him in his quest for redemption. This moment of intimacy leaves Holly feeling abandoned, as once again, she finds herself unseen. Determined not to lose her chance at being acknowledged and connecting with Shayne, she attends his MMA rematch against the formidable Attila, a character portrayed by Tito Ortiz.

During this high-stakes fight, Holly boldly sneaks into the scene, drawing attention to her unseen presence. The atmosphere is electric, with Shayne’s ex-girlfriend in the crowd, blindly unaware of the drama unfolding in the ring. Ultimately, even though Shayne fights valiantly against Attila, he loses the match. But amidst the chaos of the fight, she offers him heartfelt congratulations, acknowledging his efforts. As circumstances unfold, Shayne’s relationship with Juliana crumbles, and he finds solace with Holly, who has finally stepped out of her shadow. It’s a tale of visibility, love, and redemption that resonates deeply as Holly learns that sometimes, the connection we seek is found in the most unexpected places.

Timeline

Follow the complete movie timeline of Above the Shadows (2019) with every major event in chronological order. Great for understanding complex plots and story progression.

Holly's Mother's Death

Holly's journey begins with the death of her mother, an event that deeply affects her life. This loss causes her to fade into the background, becoming invisible to those around her, including family and friends.

Living in the Shadows

Over the next decade, Holly exists in the shadows, unnoticed and isolated from the world. She becomes a tabloid detective, revealing scandalous secrets about famous personalities and their infidelities.

More than a decade later

Meeting Shayne Blackwell

Holly's life takes a turn when she meets Shayne Blackwell, a disgraced MMA fighter. For the first time, she feels seen as he recognizes her presence, creating a unique connection between them.

Shayne's Cheating Revelation

Holly uncovers that Shayne is cheating on his girlfriend, leading to his public downfall. This revelation complicates her feelings as she realizes her actions have tangible consequences in his life.

Desire for Visibility

Conflicted by her feelings for Shayne, Holly believes that helping him regain his fame can also restore her own visibility. Her longing to be seen drives her efforts to support him in his career.

Kiss with Former Ex

While Holly attempts to assist Shayne, he shares a kiss with his former girlfriend after her help. This moment leaves Holly feeling abandoned and once again invisible, increasing her emotional turmoil.

Realization of Invisibility

After witnessing Shayne's affectionate moment with his ex, Holly realizes that she is again invisible to everyone, including him. This moment serves as a harsh reminder of her loneliness and isolation.

MMA Fight with Attila

The narrative intensifies as Holly attends Shayne's rematch against Attila, where emotions run high. She sneaks into the ring, hoping to support Shayne while also optimizing her chance to be seen by him.

MMA Fight Venue

Visibility Restored

During the fight, Shayne suddenly regains the ability to see Holly, marking a pivotal moment in their relationship. This newfound visibility rekindles hope for both of them amidst the chaos of the match.

Inside the ring

Shayne Loses the Fight

In a dramatic showdown, Shayne ultimately loses the match against Attila, despite the intense atmosphere. However, Holly remains supportive, congratulating him sincerely while the crowd reacts to the outcome.

Inside the ring

Holly's Dismissal

Following the fight, Holly is forcibly removed from the ring, marking yet another instance of her struggle for recognition. This moment epitomizes her ongoing battle against invisibility, despite her love for Shayne.

Shayne's Breakup with Julianne

After his loss and Holly's removal, Shayne reflects on his relationships and decides to break up with his girlfriend Julianne. This decision is driven by his need to embrace the connection he shares with Holly.

Shayne and Holly Together

In a conclusive turn of events, Shayne ultimately chooses to be with Holly, marking the triumph of their unique bond. Their relationship symbolizes hope for both individuals, as they navigate their complex emotions.

Characters

Explore all characters from Above the Shadows (2019). Get detailed profiles with their roles, arcs, and key relationships explained.

Holly (Olivia Thirlby)

Holly is a young woman who grapples with the emotional scars left by her mother's death, leading her to become invisible to the world. She embodies resilience and determination, seeking validation and visibility through her work as a tabloid detective. As she navigates her complex feelings for Shayne, her character arc reveals her growth and longing for connection.

👩‍⚖️ Detective 😢 Grief

Shayne Blackwell (Alan Ritchson)

Shayne is a disgraced MMA fighter whose fall from grace is exacerbated by his infidelities. He is portrayed as a character seeking redemption, torn between his past mistakes and his relationship with Holly. His journey in the film emphasizes themes of visibility and self-worth, as he learns to see and appreciate Holly while fighting for his career.

🥊 Fighter 🔄 Redemption

Juliana (Megan Fox)

Juliana is Shayne's former girlfriend, representative of the world of fame and its superficialities. Her character serves as a foil for Holly's journey, embodying the glamorous yet harsh realities of being in the public eye. The dynamic between her and Holly reflects themes of jealousy and competition.

💁‍♀️ Ex-girlfriend 🌟 Celebrity

Setting

Learn where and when Above the Shadows (2019) takes place. Explore the film’s settings, era, and how they shape the narrative.

Time period

The movie is set in contemporary times, where modern social dynamics and the impact of celebrity culture shape its narrative. This period is marked by a fascination with fame, public scrutiny, and the personal consequences that come from living in the spotlight.

Location

MMA Arena, Tabloid Office

The MMA Arena is a high-energy venue known for hosting intense mixed martial arts fights that attract passionate fans. It's a place where dreams are made or shattered, representing the highs and lows of competitive sports. The Tabloid Office, on the other hand, serves as a backdrop for Holly's investigative work, where the glitzy world of celebrity drama unfolds.

🏟️ Sports Venue 📰 Media

Themes

Discover the main themes in Above the Shadows (2019). Analyze the deeper meanings, emotional layers, and social commentary behind the film.

👻

Isolation

Isolation is a central theme, as Holly struggles with her invisibility and emotional disconnect from those around her. This manifests in her longing for recognition and connection, driving her actions throughout the film. The theme explores the human condition of feeling unseen and unheard, especially in the wake of personal loss.

💔

Relationships

The complexities of relationships are highlighted, particularly in how Holly's actions impact Shayne's life and career. The movie examines how love, betrayal, and visibility intertwine, ultimately leading characters to confront their desires and disappointments. This theme is crucial as it shifts the trajectory of both Holly and Shayne's lives.

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