Who Plays Patrick in Pulse
In the 2006 American supernatural horror film Pulse (also released as Pulse 2: Afterlife in some regions), the character Patrick is portrayed by actor Matt Cohen. Cohen’s performance forms a key emotional anchor in the story, grounding the film’s eerie premise in human relationships. This guide provides a verified profile of the actor, character context, and production details, with an aim to remain accurate and useful over time.
Quick Reference: Patrick and Matt Cohen
| Attribute | Verified Detail | Source Type |
|---|---|---|
| Actor | Matt Cohen | Cast listing / on‑screen credits |
| Character | Patrick | Film credit & script |
| Release Year | 2006 | Production records |
| Primary Role | Supporting — romantic interest and emotional anchor | Film narrative analysis |
| Notable Context | One of the central human roles amid a supernatural threat | Review & synopsis sources |
Pulse Film Context
Pulse is a remake of the 2001 Japanese horror film of the same name, in which a group of people become targeted by malevolent forces that travel through Internet connections. The 2006 American version updates the setting to contemporary broadband-era technology and emphasizes character-driven tension. The story follows college student Stephen (played by Kristen Bell), whose concerning encounter with an old classmate spirals into a wider existential threat. Against this backdrop, Patrick represents one of the few stable, human connections in an increasingly isolating world.
About the Actor: Matt Cohen
Matt Cohen is an American actor born on October 28, 1982 in Miami, Florida, USA. He is best known for his roles in teen dramas and horror films of the mid‑2000s. Cohen’s portrayal of Patrick in Pulse is among his more widely recognized performances due to the film’s lasting cult status within the horror genre. Beyond this film, he has appeared in various television series and independent productions.
Matt Cohen — Professional Snapshot
| Aspect | Detail | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Full Name | Matt Cohen | Consistent across industry databases |
| Date of Birth | October 28, 1982 | Publicly documented |
| Birthplace | Miami, Florida | Biographical records |
| Known For | ‘Pulse’ (2006), teen-oriented roles | Genre footprint |
| Active Period | Early 2000s–mid 2010s | Based on available credits |
Character Role and Narrative Function
Patrick in Pulse serves as both a narrative bridge and emotional anchor. He is introduced early in the film as a figure connected to the protagonist’s academic environment, and his interactions help establish the rules of the unfolding supernatural events. The relationship between Patrick and the main character adds a layer of vulnerability, making the horror elements more personal. This structure is common in modern horror, where interpersonal stakes amplify the threat posed by nonhuman forces.
Patrick’s Role in Key Scenes
- Opening college scenes: Establishes normalcy before the inciting incident.
- Supernatural encounter sequences: Acts as a witness and, at times, a direct target.
- Emotional resolution moments: Provides grounding amid escalating tension.
Production and Casting Context
The 2006 version of Pulse was directed by Jim Sonzero and produced by a team seeking to translate the unsettling concept of digital haunting to a Western audience. Casting leaned toward recognizable faces in teen genre roles, with Matt Cohen chosen for his ability to convey sincerity and vulnerability. The production design emphasized contemporary domestic and academic settings, allowing the digital threat to feel invasive and immediate. Cohen’s performance was noted for its restrained intensity, contributing to the film’s tense but character-focused approach.
Cultural and Genre Legacy
Although Pulse did not revolutionize the horror box office, it maintained steady relevance through home video and streaming, bolstered by an effective premise and a committed cast. Matt Cohen’s portrayal of Patrick remains a touchstone for fans of early‑mid 2000s horror, particularly those who favor character-focused supernatural stories. The film’s themes of connectivity, isolation, and technological dread have only grown more relevant, ensuring enduring interest in its cast and creative choices.
Comparative Context: Other Key Cast Members
To fully understand Patrick’s place in the film, it helps to compare the central cast members and their roles within the story’s structure.
| Actor | Character | Narrative Function | Genre Typicality |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kristen Bell | Stephen | Protagonist; drives investigation | Lead |
| Matt Cohen | Patrick | Emotional anchor; supporting presence | Supporting |
| Ian Somerhalder | Josh | Threat and mystery catalyst | Antagonistic/ambiguous |
| Emma Caulfield | Dana | Peer and reality check | Supporting |
Frequently Asked Questions
- Is Patrick a central character in Pulse? While not the protagonist, Patrick plays a pivotal supporting role that enhances the film’s emotional stakes.
- Are there sequels where Matt Cohen reprises Patrick? Cohen does not appear in the direct sequel Pulse 2: Afterlife; the follow-up focuses on a new set of characters.
- How does this version of Pulse differ from the original Japanese film? The American remake updates the setting and technology while retaining the core premise of malevolent digital forces, with more explicit character focus.
Conclusion
Matt Cohen plays Patrick in the 2006 horror film Pulse, delivering a grounded, human performance that supports the movie’s blend of supernatural tension and interpersonal drama. Understanding who plays Patrick in Pulse helps viewers appreciate the film’s balance between genre thrills and character depth, contributing to its lasting relevance in modern horror.