Atlas Shrugged II: The Strike

Dagny Taggart, intent on reaching another aircraft, finds herself piloting a plane under intense circumstances. As the flight intensifies, she grapples with the profound question, 'Who is John Galt?' culminating in a harrowing moment where her plane appears to collide with a mountainside.

Nine months after the near-catastrophe, Dagny is on a mission to explore an abandoned advanced motor prototype that holds promise for technological advancement. Alongside her lover, Hank Rearden, they delve into a web of mysterious scientific disappearances across the nation.

After considerable effort, Dagny uncovers Quentin Daniels, a gifted scientist hidden in a derelict lab in Utah. Dr. Robert Stadler, of the State Science Institute, suggested Daniels as a resource, yet he remains distant from any actual aid to their cause.

Eddie Willers remains a steadfast ally to Dagny at Taggart Continental amidst growing tensions. The controversial fair share law, pushed by Wesley Mouch, begins to wreak havoc on businesses, forcing Dagny to suspend critical freight services and leading to more closures.

Dagny's brother, James Taggart, meets store clerk Cherryl Brooks, and they share an evening at a concert featuring pianist Richard Halley. The event takes an unsettling turn when Halley mysteriously vanishes, leaving behind a cryptic note linked to the enigma of 'Who is John Galt?'

During James and Cherryl's wedding, a fiery discussion ignites among the guests, instigated by Francisco d'Anconia regarding the morality of money. Simultaneously, he discreetly informs Rearden of troubling developments regarding his copper mine's management.

As Dagny's relationship with Rearden deepens, complications arise when his wife, Lillian, confronts him. Choosing to preserve her social standing, Lillian refuses the divorce, while Rearden stands firm against the fair share law, jeopardizing his interests.

In a pivotal moment, Francisco confronts Rearden, candidly discussing his role in sustaining a corrupt system. Despite Francisco's entreaties to reconsider his perspectives, Rearden observes the steadfast work ethic displayed during a mill accident, reinforcing his principles.

At Rearden's trial, he passionately advocates for personal liberty and profit, yet the government, anxious to avoid martyrdom, imposes only a superficial penalty. This event sets the stage for the introduction of 'Directive 10-289,' which further constrains free enterprise.

Amid immense pressure, the board of Taggart Transcontinental resolves to dismantle the visionary John Galt line in favor of immediate short-term gains. This decision pushes Dagny towards resignation as her brother prioritizes wage increases over long-term investments.

Tragedy strikes when a severe accident occurs in the Taggart tunnel, attributed to political pressure and the inadequate training of Dagny's temporary replacement. The incident compels Dagny to return to her role, igniting a new wave of determination in her leadership.

Determined to revive public trust in the railways, Dagny embarks on a journey to Colorado. However, she faces significant hurdles, including a mechanical failure that threatens to derail her mission.

While attempting to solve issues with her train, Dagny encounters a technician who reveals the tragic fate of the 20th Century Motor Company. She learns about the pledge made by the elusive John Galt to halt the engine of the world, deepening her understanding of the crisis.

In an emotional climax, Dagny rushes to persuade Quentin Daniels to continue his work. This desperate effort leads to a harrowing aerial pursuit that ends tragically when her plane crashes, leaving Dagny's fate uncertain.

Amidst the wreckage, a wounded Dagny manages to emerge, only to encounter the enigmatic John Galt. This meeting marks a profound turning point in her journey, opening new avenues of understanding about the societal hardships they face.