Hanover Street

Hanover Street

Year: 1979

Runtime: 109 min

Language: English

Director: Peter Hyams

ActionAdventureDramaRomanceWar

During World War II, an American bomber pilot becomes involved in a dangerous mission alongside the husband of the woman he loves. As they navigate the complexities of wartime Europe, he finds himself caught in a perilous situation, questioning his loyalties and facing a test of his humanity. The mission and their relationship are threatened by a web of secrets that could have devastating consequences.

Warning: spoilers below!

Haven’t seen Hanover Street 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 – Hanover Street (1979)

Trace every key event in Hanover Street (1979) 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

The Meeting

In the midst of World War II, Lieutenant David Halloran meets Margaret Sellinger, an English nurse, in London. This serendipitous encounter on Hanover Street sets off a series of life-altering events for both of them.

During World War II Hanover Street, London
2

Mission Departure

The following day, Halloran's squadron embarks on a critical bombing mission aimed at Rouen. The crew is hopeful but tense as they prepare for the airborne operation that could shift the tide of war.

1 day after the meeting
3

Engine Trouble

During their mission, the squadron encounters unexpected challenges when a hit damages their starboard engine. Faced with this crisis, the bombardier, Cimino, urges Halloran to abandon their mission to ensure their survival.

During the bombing mission
4

Confrontation in the Skies

Tensions escalate in the cockpit as Halloran refuses to turn back, leading to a heated confrontation with Cimino. The atmosphere heats up when Cimino expresses his frustration, questioning Halloran's leadership and decision-making.

During the bombing mission
5

A Forbidden Romance

After their initial meeting, Halloran and Margaret's paths cross again on Hanover Street. Their brief, secretive interactions spiral into a passionate yet forbidden love affair despite Margaret still being married to Paul Sellinger.

Shortly after the mission Hanover Street, London
6

Changing Mindset

As Halloran continues to participate in dangerous missions, he begins to feel the weight of mortality affect his choices. His fear leads him to order Cimino to drop their bombs early, signaling a significant change in his once steadfast approach.

Weeks into the bombing missions
7

A Life-Saving Decision

Halloran's instincts kick in when he notices an anomaly in their plane’s engine before another mission. Trusting his gut, he decides to cancel the flight, ultimately saving his life when the plane they should have taken crashes tragically.

Before a scheduled mission
8

Undercover Mission

Feeling the burden of previous near-death experiences, Halloran volunteers for a risky undercover operation in Nazi-occupied France. Paul Sellinger unexpectedly steps in to take on the role of a British agent, adding tension to the unfolding mission.

Post-cancellation of the mission Nazi-occupied France
9

The Crash

While en route over France, their plane is suddenly attacked, resulting in a crash that leaves only Halloran and Sellinger to survive. Both men must rely on each other as they navigate through enemy territory, wounded but determined.

During the undercover mission Nazi-occupied France
10

Infiltrating the Enemy

Despite the odds against them, Halloran and Sellinger plot to infiltrate German headquarters in Lyon. Sellinger's fluency in German becomes pivotal as they adopt SS officer identities to gain access, but their ruse is precarious.

Shortly after their crash Lyon, France
11

Chase and Betrayal

As they make their escape, their cover is nearly blown, resulting in a harrowing motorcycle chase. They face betrayal from a local farmer who initially aided them, complicating their desperate flight from pursuing Nazi forces.

During their escape Nazi-occupied France
12

Injury and Struggles

During their flight, Sellinger sustains a serious injury, complicating their efforts to evade capture. Halloran vows to protect and assist him, showcasing their developing camaraderie amidst the chaos of war.

During their escape
13

Revelation in London

Back in London, Sellinger's wife receives the shocking news of her husband’s survival. The emotional strain heightens when she learns that he has returned home with Lieutenant Halloran, who saved him during the wartime ordeal.

Post-escape from France London
14

Emotional Farewell

In a poignant farewell at the hospital, Halloran confesses his love to Margaret, allowing her to return to her husband. This heart-wrenching moment symbolizes the deep bond forged between them amidst adversity.

After Sellinger's return from France Hanover Street, London
15

Returning to the Street

As Margaret enters the hospital room to reunite with her husband, Halloran steps back into the street where their love story began. His heart heavy, he reflects on the love and loss experienced throughout the whirlwind of war.

Moments after the farewell Hanover Street, London

Last Updated: November 17, 2024 at 20:27

Unlock the Full Story of Hanover Street

Don't stop at just watching — explore Hanover Street 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 Hanover Street is all about. Plus, discover what's next after the movie.

Hanover Street Summary

Read a complete plot summary of Hanover Street, 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.

Hanover Street Summary

Characters, Settings & Themes in Hanover Street

Discover the characters, locations, and core themes that shape Hanover Street. Get insights into symbolic elements, setting significance, and deeper narrative meaning — ideal for thematic analysis and movie breakdowns.

Characters, Settings & Themes in Hanover Street

More About Hanover Street

Visit What's After the Movie to explore more about Hanover Street: box office results, cast and crew info, production details, post-credit scenes, and external links — all in one place for movie fans and researchers.

More About Hanover Street

Similar Movies to Hanover Street

Discover movies like Hanover Street 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.