Year: 1990
Runtime: 105 min
Language: English
A hard-boiled detective, Dick Tracy, pursues the notorious crime boss Big Boy Caprice in this stylish, pulp-inspired thriller. His investigation becomes complicated by the arrival of Breathless Mahoney, a captivating singer who may hold the key to bringing down the kingpin. As Tracy tries to unravel her secrets, he finds himself drawn to her allure, creating tension with his girlfriend, Tess. The case proves to be more dangerous and complex than he initially anticipated.
Get a spoiler-free look at Dick Tracy (1990) with a clear plot overview that covers the setting, main characters, and story premise—without revealing key twists or the ending. Perfect for deciding if this film is your next watch.
In a neon‑slick metropolis that feels plucked straight from a 1930s comic strip, the streets pulse with a mix of gritty realism and exaggerated, cartoonish flair. The city’s towering skyline, bold colors, and rain‑slicked alleys set the stage for a world where law and chaos brush shoulders at every corner. Within this stylized landscape walks Dick Tracy, a hard‑boiled detective whose uncompromising sense of duty is matched only by his iconic yellow coat and unwavering stare. Tracy’s reputation precedes him, and his very presence seems to draw out the city’s darkest whispers, promising a chase that’s as much about personal code as it is about justice.
The thin line between order and an underworld ruled by ambition is embodied by Big Boy Caprice, a notorious crime boss whose very name conjures images of power games played behind velvet curtains and smoky backrooms. The detective’s pursuit of this shadowy figure forms the film’s central thrust, a cat‑and‑mouse game that feels both classic noir and unapologetically larger‑than‑life. The tension is amplified by a visual language that leans into bold graphics, exaggerated silhouettes, and a soundtrack that melds vintage jazz with modern edge, making every moment feel like a living page of pulp fiction.
Complicating Tracy’s relentless hunt is the arrival of Breathless Mahoney, a mesmerizing club singer whose allure is as potent as the mysteries she seems to guard. Her presence introduces a delicate dance of attraction and suspicion, pulling the detective into a web of personal and professional conflict. Meanwhile, his steadfast girlfriend, Tess, anchors him with a loyalty that threatens to clash with the intoxicating pull of the new femme fatale. The interplay of these three characters promises a tantalizing blend of romance, rivalry, and relentless pursuit, setting the tone for a stylishly charged thriller that revels in intrigue without giving away its next move.
Last Updated: August 10, 2025 at 13:37
Don't stop at just watching — explore Dick Tracy in full detail. From the complete plot summary and scene-by-scene timeline to character breakdowns, thematic analysis, and a deep dive into the ending — every page helps you truly understand what Dick Tracy is all about. Plus, discover what's next after the movie.
Read a complete plot summary of Dick Tracy, including all key story points, character arcs, and turning points. This in-depth recap is ideal for understanding the narrative structure or reviewing what happened in the movie.
Track the full timeline of Dick Tracy with every major event arranged chronologically. Perfect for decoding non-linear storytelling, flashbacks, or parallel narratives with a clear scene-by-scene breakdown.
Discover movies like Dick Tracy that share similar genres, themes, and storytelling elements. Whether you’re drawn to the atmosphere, character arcs, or plot structure, these curated recommendations will help you explore more films you’ll love.
Dick Tracy (1990) Scene-by-Scene Movie Timeline
Dick Tracy (1990) Movie Characters, Themes & Settings
Dick Tracy (1990) Spoiler-Free Summary & Key Flow
Movies Like Dick Tracy – Similar Titles You’ll Enjoy
Trixie (2000) Full Summary & Key Details
Tracers (2015) Full Movie Breakdown
Skiptrace (2016) Full Movie Breakdown
Detective Story (1951) Story Summary & Characters
Dixieland (2015) Story Summary & Characters
Fun with Dick and Jane (2005) Complete Plot Breakdown
Triple Threat (2019) Detailed Story Recap
The Tuxedo (2002) Movie Recap & Themes
Sin City (2005) Movie Recap & Themes
City Heat (1984) Story Summary & Characters
Tango & Cash (1989) Full Movie Breakdown
High Society (1956) Story Summary & Characters
Man on a Ledge (2012) Story Summary & Characters
Tequila Sunrise (1988) Detailed Story Recap
Watching the Detectives (2008) Complete Plot Breakdown