Eye of the Needle

Eye of the Needle

Year: 1981

Runtime: 112 min

Language: English

Director: Richard Marquand

ThrillerRomanceWar

Stranded on a remote island during a fierce storm, a ruthless German spy known as Henry Faber finds himself unexpectedly drawn to Lucy, a woman wrestling with a difficult marriage. As he waits out the weather, his charm and seductive nature threaten to shatter her already fragile emotional state, creating a dangerous entanglement of love, loyalty, and deception. The situation becomes increasingly perilous as his true identity and mission are jeopardized.

Warning: spoilers below!

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Timeline – Eye of the Needle (1981)

Trace every key event in Eye of the Needle (1981) 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

Chaos of Warfare

In a tumultuous world, alliances are strained by the chaos of warfare. The backdrop of conflict sets the stage for the unfolding drama as Henry Faber operates undercover in England.

2

Faber's Mission

Henry Faber, known as 'the Needle', uncovers crucial intelligence about a military ruse. This information threatens to expose the Allies' plans, which leads him into dangerous territory.

England
3

MI5's Pursuit

After failing to relay his vital information, Faber becomes a target for MI5. They are determined to protect D-Day's operations and will stop at nothing to apprehend him.

England
4

Refuge in Scotland

Seeking refuge, Faber escapes to the harsh and unforgiving terrain of Scotland. His isolation begins as he encounters a U-boat in the desolate Storm Island.

Storm Island, Scotland
5

Meeting Lucy

On Storm Island, Faber meets Lucy, a young woman entangled in her own troubled life, caring for her husband David, who is confined to a wheelchair. Their chance encounter stirs complex feelings amidst isolation.

Storm Island, Scotland
6

David's Jealousy

As Faber becomes more entrenched in the island's life, David grows suspicious of his presence. This tension escalates when David finds clues hinting at Faber's true identity and intentions.

Storm Island, Scotland
7

David's Demise

In a tragic confrontation, Faber kills David to keep his secrets safe. The incident culminates with David's body falling down a cliff, marking a significant turning point in the story.

Storm Island, Scotland
8

Lucy's Grief

Lucy discovers David's lifeless form washed ashore, which sends shockwaves through her life. This revelation drives her to consider escaping the island with her son, Jo, in search of safety.

Storm Island, Scotland
9

Communication Breakdown

In her desperation, Lucy reaches out for assistance from the mainland using Tom's lighthouse. However, she receives a cryptic message instructing her to destroy the transmitter, heightening her uncertainty.

Tom's Lighthouse, Storm Island
10

Faber's Threat

Confronted by Faber as she deliberates over the command, Lucy feels the pressure of the situation escalate. Faber seizes Jo, using him as leverage to manipulate Lucy into aiding his communications.

Tom's Lighthouse, Storm Island
11

Lucy Sabotages Faber

In a moment of defiance, Lucy sabotages the transmitter, disrupting Faber's communication attempt with the U-boat. This act of bravery sets the stage for their final confrontation.

Tom's Lighthouse, Storm Island
12

Chase to the Cliffs

Despite Faber’s intentions to move towards the cliffs, Lucy refuses to give up. She confronts him, armed with her late husband's revolver, desperate to stop him from reaching the submarine.

Cliffs of Storm Island
13

End of the Line

In a climactic moment, Lucy takes decisive action to end Faber's threat. This ultimate confrontation forces her to confront her own instincts for survival and protection of Jo.

Cliffs of Storm Island
14

Emotional Collapse

After the harrowing encounter, Lucy collapses from fatigue and despair. The weight of her experiences and losses manifests physically, leaving her shattered in the aftermath.

Cliffs of Storm Island

Last Updated: November 21, 2024 at 10:20

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Eye of the Needle Summary

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Eye of the Needle Summary

Characters, Settings & Themes in Eye of the Needle

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Characters, Settings & Themes in Eye of the Needle

More About Eye of the Needle

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