American Made

American Made

Year: 2017

Runtime: 115 min

Language: English

Director: Doug Liman

ActionBiographyDramaHistoryThrillerComedyCrime

A charismatic pilot is drawn into a covert CIA operation in the 1980s, tasked with gathering intelligence in Central America. He becomes entangled in a complex web of espionage and drug trafficking, unknowingly aiding the rise of the Medellin cartel while jeopardizing the Reagan administration. His daring flights and involvement in this massive undertaking lead him down a dangerous path, blurring the lines between patriot and criminal.

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Timeline – American Made (2017)

Trace every key event in American Made (2017) with our detailed, chronological timeline. Perfect for unpacking nonlinear stories, spotting hidden connections, and understanding how each scene builds toward the film’s climax. Whether you're revisiting or decoding for the first time, this timeline gives you the full picture.

1

Barry Seal's Recruitment

In the late 1970s, Barry Seal, a commercial airline pilot for TWA, is approached by CIA case officer Monty Schafer. Schafer enlists Barry's help to fly covert reconnaissance missions, marking the beginning of Barry's entanglement in espionage and danger.

1970s
2

Covert Missions Over Central America

Barry begins flying reconnaissance missions over Central America using the advanced Piper Smith Aerostar 600. He captures valuable photographic intelligence while facing the constant threat of gunfire from insurgents, which earns him recognition from the CIA.

Central America
3

The Shift to Drug Smuggling

As Barry's missions evolve, he is recruited to deliver messages between the CIA and General Noriega in Panama. Meanwhile, he receives an offer from the Medellin Cartel to transport cocaine back to the U.S., altering the course of his operations.

Panama
4

The Dangerous Proposal

Given the protection from the CIA, Barry accepts the Medellin Cartel’s lucrative proposition. This leads to his dual life where he now smuggles cocaine while initially holding onto his role as a CIA operative, blurring the lines of legality.

5

Establishing Mena as a Trafficking Hub

Barry starts using airdrops in Louisiana, with Mena, Arkansas becoming a crucial center for U.S. cocaine trafficking. The small town transforms due to Barry’s growing operations and the allure of easy profits associated with the drug trade.

Mena, Arkansas
6

Running Arms for the Contras

Barry's complex operations lead him to run arms for the Nicaraguan Contras under the approval of the Reagan administration. This involvement showcases the blurred lines between political agendas and the burgeoning drug trade impacting the country.

7

Family Strains Emerge

As Barry's drug operations expand, his family life suffers. His brother-in-law JB moves in, bringing tensions that eventually escalate to theft and a tragic culmination in JB's explosive demise, further complicating Barry's already perilous situation.

8

Increased Law Enforcement Attention

The significant rise in Barry's activities does not go unnoticed, catching the attention of law enforcement agencies. This forces the CIA to reconsider their relationship with Barry, leading to discussions about abandonment and possible consequences.

9

Deal with the White House

Barry negotiates a deal with the White House to gather evidence on drug trafficking, believing this could secure his position and protect him. However, this plan backfires as he becomes a target, identified in crucial photographs by law enforcement.

10

Arrest and Growing Danger

Despite being sentenced to community service for his involvement in drug smuggling, Barry lives in constant fear. The cartel, seeking revenge for betrayals, intensifies the danger surrounding him, highlighting the fragile nature of his double life.

11

Barry's Assassination

In a tragic twist, Barry's past catches up with him when he is assassinated by hitmen from the cartel. This stark end to his high-stakes life signifies the perilous risks that come with his actions in the drug trade.

12

CIA's Disconnection from Barry

Following Barry's assassination, the CIA cuts all ties to him, ensuring their operations remain clandestine. Monty Schafer, who once relied on Barry, climbs the ranks, showing the agency's ability to distance themselves from scandals.

13

Lucy and the Children Start Anew

In the aftermath of Barry's death, Lucy and their children return to Baton Rouge, seeking to rebuild their lives away from the chaos. They navigate their new reality, haunted by memories of their lavish lifestyle and the treachery that surrounded it.

Baton Rouge

Last Updated: November 08, 2024 at 16:15

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American Made Summary

Read a complete plot summary of American Made, 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.

American Made Summary

Characters, Settings & Themes in American Made

Discover the characters, locations, and core themes that shape American Made. Get insights into symbolic elements, setting significance, and deeper narrative meaning — ideal for thematic analysis and movie breakdowns.

Characters, Settings & Themes in American Made

American Made Ending Explained

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American Made Ending Explained

More About American Made

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