Foul Play

Foul Play

Year: 1978

Runtime: 116 min

Language: English

Director: Colin Higgins

MysteryThrillerComedy

In the gritty streets of Halifax, a thrilling adventure unfolds as a team of investigators delves into the city's most notorious crimes. Through gripping dramatizations, the dark underbelly of the North is revealed, blending suspense and humor in a captivating ride.

Warning: spoilers below!

Haven’t seen Foul Play yet? This summary contains major spoilers. Bookmark the page, watch the movie, and come back for the full breakdown. If you're ready, scroll on and relive the story!

Timeline – Foul Play (1978)
Trace every key event in Foul Play (1978) 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

Divorce and Reflection

Gloria Mundy, recently divorced, attends a party in a nearby town. She is encouraged by a friend to be more social, but decides against dating, choosing instead to drive back to the city alone.

Party in Town across the Bay
2

Helping a Stranger

While driving along the Marlin County coastline, Gloria encounters a handsome stranger whose car has broken down. She takes him to the city, unaware that they are being followed.

Marlin County Coastline
3

A Mysterious Encounter

Gloria unknowingly becomes part of a dangerous situation when the stranger, Bob Scott, slips a cigarette pack containing a spool of film into her purse. He urges her to meet him later at a movie theater.

Inside Gloria's car
4

A Death and a Warning

At the movie theater, Bob Scott is injured and dies shortly after cryptically warning Gloria to 'Beware of the dwarf.' This shocking moment leads Gloria into a web of danger when his body vanishes.

Movie Theater
5

Trust Issues

Gloria recounts her terrifying experience to her elderly landlord, Mr. Hennessey, and a friend at the library. They are skeptical, with her friend suggesting she carry self-defense items for protection.

Gloria's Apartment and Library
6

A Sudden Kidnapping

Later, while closing up the library, Gloria is approached by a menacing albino stranger. A harrowing chase ensues, prompting her to seek refuge with Stanley Tibbets, who misinterprets her intentions.

Public Library
7

A Home Invasion

Gloria's apartment is invaded by a man with a scar who interrogates her for the cigarette pack. In a struggle, she manages to stab him, but her relief is short-lived as he continues attacking her.

Gloria's Apartment
8

Police Involvement

After being saved by the albino, Gloria wakes up to find herself face-to-face with police Lt. Tony Carlson. He finds her account unbelievable, but is drawn to her and offers assistance.

Gloria's Apartment
9

The Kidnapping Escalates

Gloria is kidnapped by the albino and his accomplice, The Turk, leading to a desperate struggle for her freedom as she uses her portable alarm to escape. She narrowly avoids capture, taking refuge at Tony’s office.

Deserted Building
10

A Hidden Threat

Tony discovers the true identity of the mysterious assassin, Stiltskin, and realizes Gloria is in grave danger. He rushes to protect her, uncovering a conspiracy that threatens the Pope.

Police Headquarters
11

Unexpected Encounters

In a comical yet chaotic moment, Gloria mistakenly pushes a midget salesman out of her window, thinking he is part of the conspiracy. This misunderstanding leads to another investigation.

Gloria's Apartment
12

The Archbishop's Secret

Gloria and Tony confront Archbishop Thorncrest regarding the kidnapping incident. They uncover his involvement in a plot to assassinate the Pope, prompting a thrilling race to prevent the crime.

Archbishop's Residence
13

A Night of Romance

To ensure Gloria's safety, Tony takes her to his houseboat where they bond and become romantic. Their relationship deepens as they prepare to confront the looming danger together.

Tony's Houseboat in Sausalito
14

Race Against Time

With Fergie kidnapped, Tony is determined to save Gloria from Stiltskin's group. A frantic fight breaks out at the Archbishop's residence as they try to stop the plot against the Pope.

Archbishop's Basement
15

A Climactic Opera

During an opera performance, the plan to assassinate the Pope comes to a head. After a chaotic series of events, the threat is neutralized in a dramatic showdown, leading to a surprising and humorous public reaction.

Opera House

Last Updated: January 18, 2025 at 14:36

Similar Movies to Foul Play
Discover movies like Foul Play 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.