Dick Hallorann's Role as Rescuer

The Shining

Hallorann's journey from Florida to the Overlook, his battle with the hedge lion, and his role as Danny's protector.

increasingupBearing stren­gth in each eventdowndecreasing
The Psychic CallThe Psychic Call
The Summons The Oranges Hallorann smells oranges, a sign of his shining. He hears Danny's desperate call for help. The Decision Hallorann immediately decides to go to Colorado. He lies to his boss to get time off. He feels a strong compulsion. The Premonition Hallorann has a premonition that he might not return. He makes a will. He is willing to risk his life.
The JourneyThe Journey
The Obstacles The Storm Hallorann flies to Denver through a blizzard. He rents a car and drives toward Sidewinder, facing dangerous roads. The Help A snowplow driver, Howard Cottrell, helps him and gives him mittens. He advises Hallorann to rent a snowmobile. The Determination Hallorann pushes on despite the weather. He is focused on reaching Danny.
The Battle with the Hedge LionThe Battle with the Hedge Lion
The Fight The Attack A hedge lion attacks Hallorann as he approaches the Overlook. It is a living creature of branches. The Fire Hallorann uses gasoline to set the lion on fire. He is injured but survives. The Victory Hallorann's quick thinking saves him. He continues toward the hotel, wounded but determined.
The DefeatThe Defeat
The Ambush The Lobby Hallorann enters the lobby and is knocked unconscious by Jack. He is hit twice with the roque mallet. The Injury Hallorann's jaw and cheekbone are broken. He is incapacitated. The Failure Hallorann's rescue mission seems to have failed. He cannot help Danny or Wendy.
The RescueThe Rescue
The Escape Waking Up Hallorann regains consciousness and finds Wendy. Together, they find Danny and flee the burning hotel. The Snowmobile Hallorann drives the snowmobile with Wendy and Danny. They escape as the Overlook explodes. The Success Hallorann has saved them. Despite his injuries, he feels a sense of accomplishment.
The MentorThe Mentor
The New Role The Talks Hallorann becomes a mentor to Danny. They talk about the shining and about loss. The Bond Hallorann promises to always be there for Danny. Their friendship endures. The Purpose Hallorann finds new purpose in helping Danny. He has become a father figure.
December 1, afternoon in Florida
December 2
December 2, evening
December 2, evening
December 2, after the explosion
summer, at the Red Arrow Lodge