---
title: "The Mortal Instruments: City of Bones"
year: 2013
canonical_url: "https://www.archytele.com/show/the-mortal-instruments-city-of-bones-2013"
media_type: "movie"
tmdb_id: 123553
imdb_id: null
status: "Released"
runtime_minutes: 130
community_rating: 6.4
vote_count: 0
content_rating: "PG-13"
---

# The Mortal Instruments: City of Bones (2013) — Television & Cinema Intelligence Dossier

> **Archytele Living Vault Canonical Record**: https://www.archytele.com/show/the-mortal-instruments-city-of-bones-2013

## Executive Summary & Cultural Positioning

The Mortal Instruments: City of Bones is a 2013 film set in New York City that follows a teenager named Clary Fray. Although she initially appears to be an ordinary girl, Clary discovers that she is a descendant of the Shadowhunters, a group of half-angel warriors tasked with protecting humanity from various evil forces. The narrative begins when Clary’s mother suddenly disappears. To locate her mother and secure her future, Clary joins a group of Shadowhunters and enters the Downworld. This alternate realm is populated by demons, vampires, and other supernatural creatures. Throughout the film, Clary and her companions work to find and safeguard an ancient cup, which serves as a critical object in their quest. The story focuses on Clary’s transition into this hidden world as she embraces her heritage and navigates the dangers of the Downworld to protect her family. The film explores themes of hidden identities and the struggle between humanity and the forces of evil within this supernatural setting.

## The Hook & The Verdict

**The Hook**: "A seemingly ordinary teenager discovers she is a half-angel warrior protecting humanity from evil."

### Why Watch
- features an alternate realm filled with demons and vampires
- follows a quest to find an ancient cup

### Caveats & Content Note
- the main character's mother disappears, raising high stakes
- involves dangerous encounters with evil forces
- Tone & Suitability: Rated PG-13, the film contains fantasy action and mystery elements.

**Micro-Themes & Vibe Matrix**: fantasy, action, mystery

## Streaming Availability Matrix

Direct streaming licensing updates dynamically. Consult the live tracking interface at https://www.archytele.com/show/the-mortal-instruments-city-of-bones-2013#watch.

## Creative Credits

- **Directed by**: Harald Zwart
- **Networks / Studios**: Screen Gems, Unique Features, Mister Smith Entertainment

## Key Cast Continuity

- **Lily Collins** as *Clary Fray*
- **Jamie Campbell Bower** as *Jace Wayland*
- **Robert Sheehan** as *Simon Lewis*
- **Kevin Zegers** as *Alec Lightwood*
- **Jemima West** as *Isabelle Lightwood*
- **Lena Headey** as *Jocelyn Fray*
- **Aidan Turner** as *Luke Garroway*
- **Jared Harris** as *Hodge Starkweather*
- **Jonathan Rhys Meyers** as *Valentine*
- **Kevin Durand** as *Pangborn*

## Canonical Frequently Asked Questions

### Q: When was the film released in the US?
The film was released on 08/21/2013 in the US.

### Q: What is the runtime of the film?
The runtime is 2 hours and 10 minutes.

### Q: What genres are associated with the film?
The film is categorized under fantasy, action, and mystery.

### Q: Where does the story take place?
The story takes place in New York City and an alternate realm called Downworld.

### Q: What is Clary Fray's lineage?
Clary Fray is descended from a line of Shadowhunters who are half-angel warriors.

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*Generated by Archytele Open Intelligence Systems. Data verified against TMDB and JustWatch APIs.*