Fifty Dead Men Walking

Fifty Dead Men Walking

Year: 2009

Runtime: 117 min

Language: English

Director: Kari Skogland

DramaThriller

In the midst of 1980s Northern Ireland's tumultuous conflict, young Martin McGartland is drawn into a deadly game of cat-and-mouse as he becomes an undercover informant for the British police, embedded deep within the IRA. With his life constantly hanging in the balance, McGartland's bravery and wit are tested as he walks the thin line between loyalty and survival, inspired by a true story.

Warning: spoilers below!

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Timeline – Fifty Dead Men Walking (2009)
Trace every key event in Fifty Dead Men Walking (2009) 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

Conflict in Northern Ireland

The film is set in the gritty backdrop of 1980s Northern Ireland, where the political tension is rife. Martin McGartland, a resourceful hustler, navigates this perilous environment, trying to survive amidst the chaos created by the IRA and British police.

1980s Northern Ireland
2

Recruitment by the IRA

Initially hesitant about the IRA's violent methods, Martin is eventually drawn into their ranks. The temptation of monetary rewards and a car promised by his police handlers lead him to consider infiltrating the organization.

3

Becoming a Double Agent

Martin agrees to act as a double agent, providing intelligence to his handler Fergus while outwardly appearing as a loyal member of the IRA. This decision marks a turning point in his life, entrusting him with a dangerous double life filled with deceit.

4

Growing Sense of Self-Worth

As Marty becomes more entrenched in the IRA's operations, he begins to develop a sense of self-worth that he previously lacked. However, this newfound confidence is overshadowed by the necessity to hide his secret life from friends and family, especially his girlfriend Lara.

5

Lara's Growing Suspicion

As Martin becomes increasingly involved with the IRA, Lara begins to sense that something is amiss. Her suspicions about his possible involvement with the organization create tension in their relationship, complicating Martin's efforts to maintain his cover.

6

Risky Game of Espionage

The British authorities acknowledge the significant risks involved in allowing Marty to remain with the IRA. They have faith in his ability to gather intelligence but know that his infiltration could lead to his exposure and abandonment.

7

Capture and Torture

Tensions peak when Marty is captured by IRA operatives, who subject him to severe torture as a means of extracting information. This harrowing experience pushes him to the brink, compelling him to search for a way to escape the precarious situation he is in.

8

Desperate Escape

In a moment of sheer desperation, Marty makes a daring escape by leaping out of a window. This act of bravery is fueled by his instinct to survive and evade the brutal organization he infiltrated.

9

Seeking Relocation for Family

After escaping, Marty seeks to ensure the safety of his family by attempting to relocate them to Scotland. He understands the risks they face, but the threat of the IRA looms over their future, making this escape essential.

Scotland
10

Heart-Wrenching Decision

Upon realizing that relocating his family would put Lara in danger, Marty faces a devastating decision. He ultimately chooses to flee to Canada alone, prioritizing their safety above personal desires, which leaves him emotionally torn.

Canada
11

Chilling Flashback

The film opens with a gripping flashback that shows Marty now in hiding, setting a tone of suspense. He is suddenly ambushed by the IRA but miraculously survives the attack, a foreshadowing of the conflict and survival theme that permeates the movie.

Last Updated: November 22, 2024 at 18:37

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