Death Warrant

Death Warrant

Year: 1990

Runtime: 89 min

Language: English

Director: Deran Sarafian

ActionMysteryThrillerCrime

In the brutal world of maximum-security confinement, an undercover cop must go incognito to unravel a web of corruption and violence. As he navigates the treacherous landscape, his proficiency in kickboxing becomes a vital lifeline amidst the chaos and bloodshed.

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Timeline & Setting – Death Warrant (1990)
Explore the full timeline and setting of Death Warrant (1990). Follow every major event in chronological order and see how the environment shapes the story, characters, and dramatic tension.

Time period

Contemporary (1990s)

The events transpire in the contemporary era of the 1990s, where issues such as crime and justice are prevalent. This period encapsulates the darker side of society, with a focus on the rising threat of violent crime and the increasing complexity of law enforcement tactics in dealing with such threats. The details of detective work and the prison system highlight the era's social struggles.

Location

Quebec, Los Angeles, Harrison State Prison, California

The film takes place in various locations, starting in Quebec, Canada, showcasing the harsh and determined spirit of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police. The scene quickly shifts to a grim and desolate house in Los Angeles, marked by a dreadful atmosphere filled with death. Most of the unfolding drama intensifies in Harrison State Prison, a high-security facility in California, representing both a literal and metaphorical prison for its inmates.

🏙️ City 🏢 Prison 🌅 Landscape

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 22:15

Main Characters – Death Warrant (1990)
Meet the key characters of Death Warrant (1990), with detailed profiles, motivations, and roles in the plot. Understand their emotional journeys and what they reveal about the film’s deeper themes.

Detective Louis Burke (Jean-Claude Van Damme)

Detective Louis Burke is a determined and skilled officer of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police. He is driven by a personal vendetta against the Sandman, fueled by the tragic loss of his partner at the killer's hands. Burke exhibits exceptional bravery and resourcefulness as he goes undercover, revealing his adaptability to challenging environments.

🕵️‍♂️ Detective 💪 Strength 🔍 Tenacity

Amanda Beckett (Cynthia Gibb)

Amanda Beckett is a savvy attorney who plays a crucial role in supporting Burke's investigation. She embodies intelligence and resourcefulness as she navigates the complexities of uncovering the prison's dark secrets. Beckett’s determination and ingenuity are pivotal, showcasing her as a strong ally during the chaotic events.

⚖️ Lawyer 🧠 Intelligent 🤝 Ally

Priest (Art LaFleur)

Priest is an expert criminal and Burke’s unexpected ally within the prison. His acquired knowledge of the system adds layers to Burke's undercover mission. Resourceful and street-smart, Priest represents a nuanced understanding of the prison's environment, pivotal in navigating the chaos.

🤝 Ally 🚨 Resourceful 🔒 Prisoner

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 22:15

Major Themes – Death Warrant (1990)
Explore the central themes of Death Warrant (1990), from psychological, social, and emotional dimensions to philosophical messages. Understand what the film is really saying beneath the surface.

🕵️‍♂️ Justice

Justice serves as a central theme, driving Detective Burke's relentless pursuit of a psychopathic killer. The film depicts the moral ambiguities law enforcement faces while navigating through a web of deceit. As Burke infiltrates the prison to uncover the truth behind a series of murders, the struggles for justice amidst corruption reveal the costs of fighting for what is right.

🔪 Betrayal

Betrayal is a key theme that threads through the plot, showcasing how trust can be manipulated in perilous environments. Burke witnesses the betrayal of not just his allies but also from those in positions of authority. The shocking twists involving characters like the state’s attorney general illustrate how self-interest can lead to horrifying consequences.

💔 Loss

Loss permeates the narrative, symbolized by the murder of Burke’s partner, which haunts him throughout the film. This personal grief propels Burke into a quest for closure. The deaths of other characters, including Hawkins, add to the ongoing sense of regret and emotional turbulence, highlighting the harsh realities of a life intertwined with crime.

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 22:15

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