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Marty McFly
A music-loving teenager from 1985. He is brave and quick-thinking, but worries that he will never achieve anything important.
ClearStory FILM GUIDE
Back to the Future1985
Keep the two years clear. Follow Marty’s plan. Keep the ending hidden.
What you need to know
Hill Valley, California, 1985. Teenager Marty McFly is friends with eccentric inventor Doc Brown. When Doc reveals a time machine built from a DeLorean, Marty is accidentally sent 30 years into the past—and meets his parents when they are still teenagers.
1 hour 56 minutesScience-fiction comedy adventureMoves between 1985 and 1955
OPTIONAL REFERENCECharacters, places and useful termsContains story details. Open after watching.
QUICK REMINDER
7 peopleThe only names you need
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Emmett ‘Doc’ Brown
Marty’s eccentric scientist friend and the inventor of the DeLorean time machine. Marty meets both his 1985 and 1955 selves.
GM
George McFly
Marty’s shy father. In 1985 he is still bullied by Biff; in 1955 he is an awkward teenager who secretly writes science-fiction stories.
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Lorraine Baines / McFly
Marty’s mother. Her surname is Baines in 1955 because she has not yet married George McFly.
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Biff Tannen
George’s aggressive bully in both 1955 and 1985. He regularly forces George to do work for him.
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Jennifer Parker
Marty’s girlfriend in 1985. She encourages him after his band fails an audition.
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Mr Strickland
The strict school official who deals with Marty in 1985 and knew George when he attended the same school in 1955.
DURING THE FILM
Recap as you go
Choose only a scene you have completed. If you are unsure, wait until you finish watching.
Optional story focusContains story details. Open after watching.
AFTER WATCHING
Key story points
This section contains major spoilers, including the ending.
Content note: Comic violence, bullying, threat, attempted sexual assault, guns, brief strong language, alcohol, smoking and some dated jokes.
An unofficial, independently written viewing companion for the 1985 film Back to the Future. Not affiliated with or endorsed by Universal Pictures, Amblin Entertainment or the filmmakers. No official images, logos or film artwork are used.