Cadillac Man

Cadillac Man

Year: 1990

Runtime: 97 min

Language: English

Director: Roger Donaldson

ComedyCrime

Joey O’Brien, a charming car salesman, juggles multiple relationships while struggling with increasing debt. Facing pressure from collectors, he desperately tries to sell a dozen cars within 48 hours to save his dealership. His already difficult situation spirals into chaos when an angry husband storms the lot and takes everyone hostage, putting Joey’s business and life in grave danger.

Warning: spoilers below!

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Timeline – Cadillac Man (1990)

Trace every key event in Cadillac Man (1990) 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

Ultimatum Issued

Joey O'Brien receives a two-day ultimatum to sell twelve cars or risk losing his position at a Queens car dealership. This pressure sets the stage for a frantic race against time as multiple problems in his life converge.

Two days before the deadline Queens
2

Strained Family Relationships

As Joey struggles with the ultimatum, his estranged ex-wife Pamela Reed demands alimony payments. This adds to Joey's growing anxiety, and he is further rattled by the ongoing disappearance of his daughter.

3

Complicated Love Life

Joey finds himself romantically entangled with two mistresses, creating additional tension in his life. The complexity of his personal relationships causes him significant stress as he tries to balance everything.

4

Threat From the Mafia

Joey faces the looming threat of a loan from a menacing Mafia don. This financial burden adds a heavy weight to his already challenging circumstances, intensifying his sense of dread.

5

Car Sale Event

The dealership hosts a significant car sale event aimed at alleviating Joey's financial woes. However, this event spirals out of control when a motorcycle rider named Larry storms in brandishing an AK-47.

During the car sale Car dealership
6

Hostage Situation Begins

Larry, suspicious of Joey's loyalty, takes control of the dealership and holds hostages. Joey must confront him to negotiate the release of the captives while navigating Larry's demands.

Car dealership
7

Desperate Negotiation

In an attempt to diffuse the situation, Joey fabricates a story about having an affair with Larry's wife. This risky move is intended to provide Larry with some form of closure amidst the chaos.

Car dealership
8

Bond Forms

As the negotiation continues, an unexpected bond forms between Joey and Larry. This connection ultimately leads to Larry agreeing to surrender peacefully, allowing for a resolution to the hostage situation.

Car dealership
9

Tragic Mistake

Despite the successful negotiation, chaos erupts when police mistakenly shoot Larry after most of the hostages have been freed. This event throws everyone involved into further disarray.

Car dealership
10

Unexpected Support

Joey stays by Larry’s side during his recovery in the hospital. It is in this vulnerable moment that Joey confronts the shocking reality of his fabricated affair, realizing it was never true.

Hospital
11

Aftermath Unfolds

Following the crisis, Joey’s life takes an unexpected turn. His two mistresses discover each other, leading to their immediate departure from his life, further complicating his personal situation.

12

Daughter's Return

In a surprising twist of fate, Joey's daughter returns home, positively impacting his job security at the dealership. This development brings a sense of relief amidst the ongoing turmoil.

13

Mafia Don's Forgiveness

Amidst the chaos, the Mafia don, whose son was also among the hostages, decides to forgive Joey's debt. This act of mercy provides a surprising reprieve for Joey, lifting a considerable burden off his shoulders.

14

Reconciliation Attempt

As Joey navigates his new circumstances, he begins to mend his fractured relationship with his ex-wife. Their interactions hint at potential reconciliation, underscoring themes of redemption.

15

Looking Ahead

By the end of his tumultuous journey, Joey finds himself reflecting on the unexpected shifts in his life. The experiences he endured teach him valuable lessons about relationship dynamics and personal resilience.

Last Updated: November 21, 2024 at 11:05

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Cadillac Man Summary

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Cadillac Man Summary

Characters, Settings & Themes in Cadillac Man

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Characters, Settings & Themes in Cadillac Man

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