Hancock 2008

Action

Fantasy

Crime

Box Office

$629M

Runtime

92 min

Language

English

Directed by

Peter Berg

Made by

Columbia Pictures

Test your knowledge of Hancock with our quiz!

Plot Summary

Read the complete plot summary and ending explained for Hancock (2008). From turning points to emotional moments, uncover what really happened and why it matters.

John Hancock, played by Will Smith, is a troubled superhero with extraordinary abilities, including flight, invulnerability, and immortality. Unfortunately, his battle with alcoholism leads him to unintentionally cause extensive property damage in Los Angeles while thwarting criminals, resulting in public disdain and ridicule. Ignoring multiple court summons related to his wreckage, Hancock’s life takes an unexpected turn when he saves public relations expert Ray Embrey, portrayed by Jason Bateman, from an oncoming train. Although his heroic act causes further chaos, Ray is grateful and proposes to help improve Hancock’s tarnished image.

Reluctantly accepting Ray’s offer, Hancock agrees to serve jail time for his legal issues so they can demonstrate to the city how vital he truly is. As crime rates surge during his incarceration, the Chief of Police reaches out to him. Reinvigorated with a new costume designed by Ray, Hancock steps in during a bank robbery, showcasing his heroic prowess by rescuing a police officer and decisively defeating the gang’s leader, Red Parker, played by Eddie Marsan.

Following this triumphant return, Hancock finds himself dining with Ray and his wife Mary, portrayed by Charlize Theron, where he reveals fragments of his past, including the origin of his name stemming from a request eighty years ago. As the night unfolds, Hancock makes a shocking discovery about Mary—she, too, shares superhuman abilities. When he threatens to expose her, she reluctantly tells him that they are the last of a powerful race, destined to be paired for eternity.

As their bond deepens, Hancock learns he is losing his powers due to their proximity. A precarious turn of events sees Hancock seriously wounded while intervening in a liquor store robbery. At the hospital, Mary clarifies the mystical connection they share, explaining their history and the circumstances surrounding Hancock’s amnesia from their last encounter. However, their reunion spirals into chaos when Red Parker strikes again, culminating in a brutal showdown that leaves Mary injured.

To save her, Hancock flees, knowing their separation is necessary for her to recover her powers. Eventually, he finds himself in New York City, donning the superhero mantle once more, while Ray and Mary discuss their ironic historical references. In a show of gratitude, Hancock leaves his mark by painting Ray’s All-Heart logo on the moon, prompting a meaningful phone call to Ray. The story concludes with Hancock responding to a hostage situation, ready to confront yet another criminal, seemingly prepared to unleash his pent-up rage.

Timeline

Follow the complete movie timeline of Hancock (2008) with every major event in chronological order. Great for understanding complex plots and story progression.

Hancock's Troubled Existence

John Hancock, a superhero with extraordinary abilities, grapples with his battle against alcoholism. This struggle leads him to cause significant damage while attempting to thwart criminals, resulting in widespread public disdain for his actions.

Los Angeles

The Train Rescue

Hancock's life takes a pivotal turn when he saves Ray Embrey, a public relations expert, from an oncoming train. This act of heroism, although chaotic, prompts Ray to propose his expertise in improving Hancock's damaged public image.

Train Station

Jail Time for Redemption

Reluctantly, Hancock agrees to serve jail time as part of a plan to demonstrate his value to the city. This decision allows him to tackle his legal issues while presenting a new side to his heroic persona.

City Jail

Return to Action

During Hancock's incarceration, crime rates surge, prompting the Chief of Police to reach out to him for assistance. Reinvented with a new costume designed by Ray, Hancock storms into action during a bank robbery, showcasing his heroism once again.

Bank

Dinner with Ray and Mary

After his triumphant return, Hancock shares a dinner with Ray and his wife, Mary. During this meal, he reveals details about his past and the origin of his name, a request made eighty years ago, sparking a deeper bond between them.

Ray's House

The Shocking Discovery

Hancock makes a life-altering discovery when he learns that Mary shares superhuman abilities like him. This revelation leads to the understanding that they are the last of a powerful race destined to be united forever.

Power Loss from Proximity

As their relationship deepens, Hancock realizes he is losing his powers due to his closeness to Mary. This mystical connection adds an element of urgency and complexity to their evolving relationship.

The Liquor Store Robbery

Hancock intervenes in a liquor store robbery, resulting in him getting seriously wounded. This incident prompts a visit to the hospital where Mary reveals the truth about their shared history and his amnesia.

Hospital

Red Parker Strikes Again

The battle escalates when the villain Red Parker returns to wreak havoc, leading to a brutal confrontation that ultimately leaves Mary injured. Hancock must reconcile his feelings of anger and urgency to protect her.

The Separation

To save Mary and allow her to regain her powers, Hancock decides to flee. This painful separation is necessary, yet it highlights the deep connection and sacrifice required to preserve both their lives.

Hancock in New York City

After their separation, Hancock finds himself in New York City, adopting the superhero mantle once again. He must confront the challenges of his past while navigating the complexities of his identity.

New York City

A Mark on the Moon

In an act of gratitude, Hancock leaves his mark by painting Ray's All-Heart logo on the moon. This gesture symbolizes the growth of their friendship and the impact Hancock has had on Ray's life.

Moon

A Meaningful Phone Call

Following his celestial tribute, Hancock makes a meaningful phone call to Ray. This moment reflects their lasting connection and creates anticipation for Hancock's next steps as a superhero.

Confronting the Criminal

The story culminates with Hancock responding to a hostage situation, prepared to confront yet another criminal. His journey of growth has led him to this moment where he is now ready to unleash his pent-up rage.

Characters

Explore all characters from Hancock (2008). Get detailed profiles with their roles, arcs, and key relationships explained.

John Hancock

Hancock is a complex character burdened by his past and struggles with alcoholism, causing him to unintentionally wreak havoc in Los Angeles. Despite his superhuman abilities, he grapples with feelings of inadequacy, suffering from public disdain. Throughout the film, he evolves, seeking redemption and uncovering his true potential as a hero.

🦸‍♂️ Superhero 🍷 Troubled

Ray Embrey

Ray is a public relations expert who sees the potential in Hancock despite his troubled reputation. His optimism and willingness to help Hancock redefine himself embody the theme of hope and redemption. Ray's character serves as a catalyst for Hancock's transformation, highlighting the impact one person can have in another's life.

🌟 Optimist 📈 Public Relations

Mary

Mary is a strong and mysterious character whose connection with Hancock is pivotal to the story. Initially appearing as a supportive figure, she reveals her own superhuman abilities and the depth of their shared past. Mary's character explores themes of sacrifice and the complexities of love intertwined with power.

💪 Powerful ❤️ Sacrifice

Setting

Learn where and when Hancock (2008) takes place. Explore the film’s settings, era, and how they shape the narrative.

Time period

The film does not specify a distinct time period, focusing instead on a contemporary setting. This contemporary backdrop allows for relatable themes of heroism and personal redemption, reflecting modern societal challenges and the complexities of being a superhero today.

Location

Los Angeles, New York City

Los Angeles serves as the primary backdrop, representing a city where superheroes face both admiration and scrutiny. Known for its vast entertainment industry, the city becomes the stage for Hancock's struggles and triumphs. Meanwhile, New York City features prominently towards the film's conclusion, symbolizing a new chapter in Hancock’s journey as he embraces his superhero identity.

🌆 City 🌃 Urban

Themes

Discover the main themes in Hancock (2008). Analyze the deeper meanings, emotional layers, and social commentary behind the film.

🍷

Redemption

Hancock's journey is a poignant exploration of redemption as he grapples with his troubled past and seeks to reclaim his identity as a hero. Through support from Ray and Mary, he transforms his image and recognizes the consequences of his actions. The theme showcases the potential for personal change and the impact of second chances.

💔

Sacrifice

The theme of sacrifice is central to Hancock's story, particularly in his relationship with Mary. Their bond necessitates difficult choices, including the painful separation needed for Mary to regain her powers. This theme highlights the struggles inherent in heroic responsibilities and the burdens they carry for the sake of their loved ones.

🦸‍♂️

Heroism

Hancock's flawed nature complicates the traditional ideals of heroism. His initial reckless behavior contrasts with the selflessness he ultimately displays, challenging the notion of what it means to be a hero. The film portrays heroism as not only about power and abilities but also about responsibility and personal growth.

Movies with Similar Twists and Themes

Uncover films that echo the narrative beats, emotional arcs, or dramatic twists of the one you're exploring. These recommendations are handpicked based on story depth, thematic resonance, and spoiler-worthy moments — perfect for fans who crave more of the same intrigue.