The Vanishing (1993)
- Feb 4, 1993
- 2 min read
Updated: 2 days ago
R | 1 hr 49 min | 6.3/10 | Drama, Horror, Mystery, Thriller
Parental Rating: R (Restricted, Under 17 Requires Accompanying Parent or Adult Guardian)
Storyline
The Vanishing (1993) is a chilling psychological thriller about Jeff Harriman, whose girlfriend Diane mysteriously disappears at a remote gas station during a road trip. Devastated and obsessed, Jeff spends three years searching for answers, alienating his new girlfriend Rita in the process. Unbeknownst to him, Diane's abductor is a seemingly ordinary chemistry professor named Barney Cousins, who meticulously planned the kidnapping as an experiment in human evil. When Barney contacts Jeff, offering closure in exchange for sharing his fate, the stage is set for a harrowing confrontation that delves into themes of obsession, loss, and the banality of evil.
Why It’s Our Vibe
The Vanishing masterfully builds unbearable tension through its exploration of unresolved grief and the ordinary face of monstrosity, making it a standout in '90s thrillers. George Sluizer's remake of his own Dutch classic amps up the American accessibility while retaining a core of unease, with Jeff Bridges delivering a career-defining turn as the unassuming villain—charming yet terrifying. Kiefer Sutherland's raw portrayal of desperation anchors the emotional core, paired with Sandra Bullock's poignant early role. It's a gripping study in psychological dread, perfect for fans of slow-burn suspense that lingers long after the credits.
Director
George Sluizer
Writers
Todd Graff
Tim Krabbé (based on the novel Het Gouden Ei)
Starring
Jeff Bridges as Barney Cousins
Kiefer Sutherland as Jeff Harriman
Nancy Travis as Rita Baker
Sandra Bullock as Diane Shaver
Park Overall as Lynn
Maggie Linderman as Denise Cousins
Lisa Eichhorn as Helene Cousins
George Hearn as Arthur Bernard
Lynn Hamilton as Miss Carmichael
Produced by
Larry Brezner
Paul Schiff
Todd Graff
Pieter Jan Brugge
Lauren Weissman
Production Companies
Twentieth Century Fox
Cinematography
Peter Suschitzky
Edited by
Bruce Green
Music by
Jerry Goldsmith
Distributed by
20th Century Fox
Release Date
February 5, 1993 (United States)
Run Time
1 hr 49 min
Country
United States
Languages
English
Budget
$20 million
Box Office
$14.5 million
About the Author
Our film posts are curated and written by various staff members at Massive Action Media. While we don't aim to be an exhaustive database like IMDb, we take a more selective and intentional approach. We focus on classics, cult favorites, top-rated gems, standout comedies, and films that reflect our unique voice in entertainment. Every title we feature is chosen with purpose to align with the tone and taste of our platform.
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