88 Minutes

88 Minutes

Year: 2008

Runtime: 108 min

Language: English

Director: Jon Avnet

DramaMysteryThriller

Forensic psychiatrist Dr. Jack Gramm receives a terrifying phone call: he has only 88 minutes to live. A killer has set a bomb and is holding him accountable for a past case. As the clock ticks down, he desperately tries to uncover the bomber’s identity and motive, navigating a dangerous path filled with potential suspects, including a former student and someone with a personal grudge. He must confront his own past actions and unravel a web of deceit to survive.

Warning: spoilers below!

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Timeline & Setting – 88 Minutes (2008)

Explore the full timeline and setting of 88 Minutes (2008). Follow every major event in chronological order and see how the environment shapes the story, characters, and dramatic tension.

Time period

1997, 2006

The movie spans two time periods, with critical events taking place in 1997 during the trial of Jon Forster and a continuation in 2006 leading up to his execution. The late 90s was characterized by rising criminal psychology and forensic techniques, while the mid-2000s saw an increasing focus on psychological thrillers and complex crime narratives in pop culture.

Location

University of Washington, Seattle

The University of Washington is a prestigious institution located in Seattle, known for its vibrant academic community and picturesque campus. Seattle serves as a bustling urban landscape with a rich history, recognized for its technology sector and cultural diversity. The city often experiences a blend of natural beauty and urban life, which enhances its significance in various narratives.

🏫 University 🌆 City

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 22:51

Main Characters – 88 Minutes (2008)

Meet the key characters of 88 Minutes (2008), with detailed profiles, motivations, and roles in the plot. Understand their emotional journeys and what they reveal about the film’s deeper themes.

Dr. Jack Gramm (Al Pacino)

Dr. Jack Gramm is a forensic psychiatrist deeply affected by his past as a crucial witness in a notorious criminal trial. As he navigates a series of life-threatening challenges, his intelligence and experience are put to the test. He displays resilience and a strong moral compass while grappling with guilt and the repercussions of his testimony.

👨‍⚕️ Forensic Psychiatrist 📚 Educator 🔪 Survivor

FBI Special Agent Frank Parks (Ben McKenzie)

Agent Frank Parks is dedicated and focused, working alongside Dr. Gramm to unravel a series of murders. His commitment to justice and ability to think on his feet make him a valuable ally. Parks' character adds a layer of urgency and law enforcement perspective to the narrative, showcasing his determination to protect and serve.

👮‍♂️ Agent 🔍 Investigator 💪 Protector

Carol Johnson (Alicia Witt)

Carol Johnson is the dean of students, driven by her concerns for campus safety amidst escalating tensions. Her character embodies the intersection of academic leadership and personal risk, as she becomes involved in the unfolding chaos. Carol's resilience and quick decision-making are pivotal as she navigates the threats surrounding her.

👩‍🏫 Educator ⚖️ Leader 🚨 Survivor

Kim Cummings (Alicia Witt)

Kim Cummings serves as Dr. Gramm's teaching assistant, showcasing intelligence and resourcefulness. As she becomes embroiled in the dangerous events, her loyalty and bravery come to the forefront. Her character exemplifies the complexities of relationships and the impact of past connections on present dangers.

👩‍🏫 Assistant 🧩 Resourceful 💕 Loyal

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 22:51

Major Themes – 88 Minutes (2008)

Explore the central themes of 88 Minutes (2008), from psychological, social, and emotional dimensions to philosophical messages. Understand what the film is really saying beneath the surface.

⏳ Time Pressure

The theme of time pressure is prevalent throughout the film, as Dr. Gramm faces an ominous countdown on his life. This urgency not only highlights the psychological tension but also reflects the struggle against a relentless pursuit that ties back to his past. The countdown amplifies the stakes, pushing characters into desperate situations requiring immediate action.

🔍 Deception

Deception plays a crucial role in the narrative, as characters manipulate each other to achieve their own agendas. The film intricately weaves a web of lies and mistrust, revealing the complexities of human behavior and the lengths individuals will go to protect secrets. These betrayals shape the psychological landscape and add layers of suspense.

🕵️‍♂️ Crime & Investigation

The film revolves around crime and investigation, showcasing the challenges that forensic experts face when untangling heinous acts. Dr. Gramm's expertise is central to the plot, highlighting the interplay between psychology and criminal behavior. The narrative examines the impact of past crimes and unresolved trauma on the pursuit of justice.

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 22:51

Unlock the Full Story of 88 Minutes

Don't stop at just watching — explore 88 Minutes in full detail. From the complete plot summary and scene-by-scene timeline to character breakdowns, thematic analysis, and a deep dive into the ending — every page helps you truly understand what 88 Minutes is all about. Plus, discover what's next after the movie.

88 Minutes Summary

Read a complete plot summary of 88 Minutes, including all key story points, character arcs, and turning points. This in-depth recap is ideal for understanding the narrative structure or reviewing what happened in the movie.

88 Minutes Summary

88 Minutes Timeline

Track the full timeline of 88 Minutes with every major event arranged chronologically. Perfect for decoding non-linear storytelling, flashbacks, or parallel narratives with a clear scene-by-scene breakdown.

88 Minutes Timeline

More About 88 Minutes

Visit What's After the Movie to explore more about 88 Minutes: box office results, cast and crew info, production details, post-credit scenes, and external links — all in one place for movie fans and researchers.

More About 88 Minutes