Fear (1996)

A teenage romance spirals into obsession and terror in this gripping 1990s psychological thriller starring Mark Wahlberg and Reese Witherspoon.

Fear - Movie Information

  • Original Title: Fear
  • Release Year: 1996
  • Directed by: James Foley
  • Type: Movie
  • Genres: Thriller
  • Age Rating (US): R
  • Runtime: 1h 37m
  • Original Language: English
  • Spoken Languages: English
  • Release Date (Theatrical): April 12, 1996 (Finland - K-16), April 12, 1996 (United States - R), November 7, 1996 (Germany - 18), June 24, 1998 (France - 16), August 1, 1996 (Australia - M), July 30, 1997 (Italy), May 13, 1997 (Spain - 18)
  • Alternative Titles: Miedo (MX), Pasión obsesiva (ES), Fear - Wenn die Liebe Angst macht (DE), Ángel y demonio (AR)
  • Production Companies: Universal Pictures, Imagine Entertainment
  • Production Countries: United States of America

Fear - Plot

Nicole Walker always dreamed of being swept away by someone special — someone strong, sexy and sensitive who would care for her more than anything else in the world. David is all that and more: a modern-day knight who charms and seduces her, body and soul. But her perfect boyfriend is not all he seems to be. His sweet facade masks a savage, dark side that will soon transform Nicole's dream into a nightmare.

Fear - Trailer

Watch the official trailer and see how quickly a dream romance turns sinister:

Together forever. Or else.

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Fear - Cast & Crew

Director(s)

  • James Foley

Main Cast

  • Mark Wahlberg
  • Reese Witherspoon
  • William Petersen
  • Alyssa Milano
  • Amy Brenneman
  • Tracy Fraim
  • Jason Kristofer
  • Jed Rees
  • Gary Riley
  • Todd Caldecott

Writers

  • Christopher Crowe

Producers

  • Brian Grazer
  • Ric Kidney

Fear - FAQs

Where can you stream Fear (1996)?

Fear (1996) is available to stream on Paramount Plus Essential and Paramount Plus Premium. It can also be rented or purchased on Amazon Video, Apple TV Store, Google Play Movies, YouTube, and Fandango At Home. Availability may vary by region.

Is Fear (1996) based on a true story?

Fear (1996) is not based on a specific true story. It is an original screenplay written by Christopher Crowe. However, its themes of obsessive relationships and stalking reflect real psychological patterns, lending the film a chilling sense of plausibility that resonates with audiences.

Who are the main actors in Fear (1996)?

Fear (1996) stars Mark Wahlberg as the menacing David McCall and Reese Witherspoon as Nicole Walker, the teenage girl he pursues. The supporting cast includes William Petersen as Nicole's protective father Steve, Alyssa Milano as her best friend Margo, and Amy Brenneman as Nicole's stepmother Laura.

What is Fear (1996) about?

Fear follows Nicole Walker, a teenager who falls for David McCall, a charming and attentive young man. As their relationship intensifies, David's controlling and violent behavior emerges, turning Nicole's romantic fantasy into a terrifying ordeal that ultimately threatens her entire family.

Does Fear (1996) have a happy ending?

Fear ends with a violent confrontation at Nicole's family home. David and his gang invade the house, leading to a brutal standoff. Nicole and her father Steve ultimately overcome David, who is killed. The family survives, but the ending is tense and harrowing rather than conventionally uplifting.

How long is Fear (1996)?

Fear (1996) has a runtime of 1 hour and 37 minutes (97 minutes). It is a tightly paced psychological thriller that maintains tension throughout, making its relatively compact running time feel both efficient and relentlessly suspenseful.

Who directed Fear (1996)?

Fear (1996) was directed by James Foley, known for his work on crime and thriller films including Glengarry Glen Ross (1992) and After Dark, My Sweet (1990). Foley brings a stylish, tension-driven approach to the material, crafting an atmosphere that shifts gradually from romantic to deeply unsettling.

What is the age rating for Fear (1996)?

Fear (1996) is rated R in the United States. The rating reflects the film's intense violence, sexual content, and mature themes including obsession, stalking, and home invasion. It is not suitable for younger audiences and is intended for viewers aged 17 and older.

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