Desperate Hours

Desperate Hours

Year: 1990

Runtime: 105 min

Language: English

Director: Michael Cimino

ActionDramaThrillerCrime

As the desperate hours tick away, fugitive Larsen hurtles towards the Mexican border with two young hostages in tow. But a relentless police chief has other plans, employing the Amber Alert system as a twisted game of cat and mouse, fueling a high-stakes pursuit that will test Larsen's resolve and push both men to the edge.

Warning: spoilers below!

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Timeline – Desperate Hours (1990)
Trace every key event in Desperate Hours (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

Nancy Defends Michael

In the harsh terrain of Utah, defense attorney Nancy Breyers takes on the case of Michael Bosworth, a man with a calculating and sociopathic personality. This decision marks the beginning of an entangled ordeal for her as she becomes increasingly drawn to him.

Utah
2

Secret Armament

During an intermission in a tense courtroom hearing, Nancy makes a drastic decision and secretly arms her client, Michael Bosworth. This action sets in motion a violent escape that puts her life in jeopardy.

Courtroom
3

Violent Escape

Bosworth stages a violent escape from custody, ruthlessly eliminating a guard in the process. Nancy is then forced to fabricate a story, claiming she was taken hostage, in order to avoid suspicion.

Courtroom
4

Tim's Return

Decorated Vietnam War veteran Tim Cornell returns to his hometown, seeking to reconnect with his ex-wife Nora and their children, May and Zack. His arrival is met with the old complexities of their past relationship as he hopes to rekindle their bond.

Tim's Hometown
5

Bosworth's Invasion

The family's reunion is abruptly shattered when Bosworth and his associates invade their home. They exploit the family’s vulnerabilities, turning their gathering into a nightmare.

Cornell Residence
6

FBI Suspicion

FBI agent Brenda Chandler becomes increasingly suspicious of Nancy's behavior and begins closely surveilling her actions. Nancy recognizes the growing scrutiny and contemplates her next move to protect herself.

7

Nancy's Desperate Gamble

In a desperate bid for safety, Nancy decides to flip and makes a deal with Brenda Chandler to betray Bosworth. This risky choice is aimed at lessening her own charges amidst the escalating chaos.

8

Young Zack's Escape Attempt

Amid the turmoil, young Zack attempts to flee through a window just as the family's real estate agent arrives. Their plans quickly spiral into tragedy when Bosworth engages in a brutal act, murdering the agent.

Cornell Residence
9

Albert's Fateful Decision

One of Bosworth's men, Albert, overwhelmed by anxiety and bloodshed, attempts to flee alone. His escape takes a disastrous turn when he is spotted by college girls, leading to his brutal demise at the hands of the police.

Local Area
10

A Request for Protection

As Nancy's fear for her safety escalates, she implores Agent Chandler for a weapon, unknowingly setting off a chain of events that will have dire consequences. Chandler, however, is prepared and manages to disarm Nancy.

11

Chaos in the Cornell Residence

Nancy approaches the Cornell residence, where the tension reaches its peak. The once peaceful atmosphere is shattered by gunfire, resulting in Wally being fatally wounded as he collapses against Nancy.

Cornell Residence
12

Tim Takes Action

In the midst of the chaos, Tim seizes Wally's gun, ready to confront the unfolding mayhem. His efforts to protect his family highlight the danger posed by Bosworth, who continues to hold Nora captive.

Cornell Residence
13

Confrontation with Bosworth

As the confrontation nears its climax, Tim drags the desperate Bosworth outdoors despite the latter's refusal to surrender. FBI agents shout commands, creating an atmosphere thick with tension and impending violence.

Outside Cornell Residence
14

Bosworth's End

Ultimately, Bosworth faces the consequences of his obstinacy, meeting a gruesome fate as law enforcement intervenes. This final act raises questions about bravery and the price of recklessness in dangerous situations.

Last Updated: November 17, 2024 at 21:42

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