PS
Paul Sheldon
A famous novelist best known for his romantic books about Misery Chastain. The crash leaves him badly injured and dependent on Annie.
ClearStory FILM GUIDE
Misery1990
Follow Paul’s plan. Watch Annie’s moods. Keep the ending hidden.
What you need to know
Successful novelist Paul Sheldon finishes a new manuscript at a remote Colorado lodge, then crashes his car in a blizzard. Annie Wilkes rescues him and takes him to her isolated home. She is a former nurse—and his self-described number one fan.
1 hour 47 minutesPsychological horror thrillerMostly set inside one house
OPTIONAL REFERENCECharacters, places and useful termsContains story details. Open after watching.
QUICK REMINDER
5 peopleThe only names you need
AW
Annie Wilkes
A former nurse who rescues Paul. She adores his Misery novels, but her friendliness can change suddenly into anger.
B
Buster
The local sheriff investigating Paul’s disappearance after his damaged car cannot be found.
V
Virginia
Buster’s wife and colleague. She helps him think through the clues in Paul’s disappearance.
MS
Marcia Sindell
Paul’s literary agent in New York. She knows his habits and becomes worried when he fails to return.
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: Captivity, psychological abuse, severe leg and ankle injuries, strong bloody violence, murder, drug dependence, threat and strong language.
An unofficial, independently written viewing companion for the 1990 film Misery. Not affiliated with or endorsed by Columbia Pictures, Castle Rock Entertainment, Stephen King or the filmmakers. No official images, logos or film artwork are used.