Blue Thunder

Blue Thunder

Year: 1983

Runtime: 109 min

Language: English

Director: John Badham

ActionSci-FiDramaThrillerCrime

Frank Murphy, a dedicated police officer, is assigned to pilot Blue Thunder, a revolutionary attack helicopter intended to help fight crime in a city struggling with justice. However, he soon discovers the helicopter's true purpose: a tool for government control and suppression. Torn between his duty and his conscience, Murphy must confront the corruption within the system and decide whether to uphold his oath or rebel against those in power.

Warning: spoilers below!

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Timeline – Blue Thunder (1983)

Trace every key event in Blue Thunder (1983) 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

Captain Braddock Seeks Frank Murphy

As night descends over Los Angeles, Captain Braddock anxiously searches for the skilled pilot Frank Murphy. With the usual observer unavailable, Braddock assigns rookie observer Lymangood to ensure Murphy is ready for their critical night shift.

Metropolitan Police Astro Division
2

Murphy Meets His New Partner

Lymangood finds Murphy in the ready room, focused on his digital wristwatch. Their initial interactions are marked by Lymangood's inexperience, but the gravity of their situation soon becomes apparent.

Ready Room
3

First Mission Begins

In a swift start to their shift, Murphy and Lymangood take off in their helicopter. Murphy's keen observations allow them to respond rapidly to multiple incidents below, showcasing his expertise amidst the rookie’s hesitations.

Los Angeles
4

Confronting a Store Robbery

The duo spots a store robbery in progress, and with bravery, they activate the 'midnight sun' searchlight to illuminate the suspects. Despite coming under fire, they manage to direct ground units to apprehend the criminals.

Local Store
5

Witnessing a Violent Crime

While they continue their patrol, Murphy and Lymangood find themselves distracted by a woman performing yoga nude. This light-hearted moment turns dark when they unexpectedly witness a violent crime occur just minutes later.

Above Watts District
6

Murphy's Haunting Memories

The chaos of the gunfight below triggers haunting memories for Murphy, reminding him of his traumatic past in Vietnam. This psychological burden complicates his efforts to navigate the violent scene unfolding beneath them.

Watts District
7

Braddock's Anger

Captain Braddock expresses his frustration towards Murphy for deviating from their patrol route, which could have jeopardized the life of City Councilwoman McNealy, who has now been shot and is in critical condition.

Police Headquarters
8

The Unfolding Crisis

As tensions escalate in the Watts district following McNealy's shooting, Murphy discovers a note that hints at deeper unrest within the community. He realizes the situation is more complicated than it first appeared.

McNealy's Residence
9

Introduction to Blue Thunder

Murphy is summoned by Braddock and confronted by mysterious men, revealing his selection to test the advanced government helicopter known as Blue Thunder. This machine harbors formidable firepower and stealth capabilities.

Police HQ
10

Demo of Blue Thunder

Murphy and Braddock watch a chilling demonstration of Blue Thunder, witnessing its lethal capabilities first-hand. This raises internal questions about the ethics of using such weaponry for policing, amidst growing unease for collateral damage.

Training Area
11

Old Rivalry Resurfaces

Colonel Cochrane, Murphy's old adversary, reappears, intensifying Murphy's anxieties about the situation. Cochrane's presence suggests a deeper involvement in the conspiracy surrounding McNealy's shooting and the helicopter project.

Police Headquarters
12

Investigating the Conspiracy

With the help of Montoya, Murphy investigates the patterns linking McNealy's attack and the shadowy dealings surrounding the helicopter initiative. Clarity emerges as he connects dots between Los Angeles power players.

Police Headquarters
13

Helicopter Malfunction

Murphy and Lymangood face dire consequences as Cochrane sabotages the helicopter, leading to a catastrophic malfunction during a patrol. They crash-land in the troubled Watts district, heightening the stakes of their mission.

Watts District
14

Tragedy Strikes

Lymangood is tragically killed during the fallout of Cochrane’s conspiracy, leaving Murphy devastated and motivated by vengeance. This loss intensifies his determination to uncover the truth behind the dark schemes at play.

Watts District
15

Climactic Showdown

In a breathtaking aerial duel against Cochrane, Murphy pilots Blue Thunder with resolve. He taps into the memories of their Vietnam past, ultimately executing a daring maneuver that brings an explosive resolution to their conflict.

Los Angeles Skies

Last Updated: October 27, 2024 at 21:29

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Blue Thunder Summary

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Blue Thunder Summary

Characters, Settings & Themes in Blue Thunder

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Characters, Settings & Themes in Blue Thunder

More About Blue Thunder

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