Initiation

Initiation

Year: 2021

Runtime: 96 min

Language: English

Director: John Berardo

MysteryThrillerHorrorCrime

During university pledge week, the joyous atmosphere turns to terror after a popular athlete is murdered. Cryptic social media clues begin to surface, revealing a network of hidden campus secrets. As students and law enforcement race to find answers, a recurring symbol, a single exclamation mark, suggests a sinister presence. The investigation uncovers a disturbing connection between the victim and the escalating events, forcing everyone to confront the dark underbelly of the university.

Warning: spoilers below!

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Timeline – Initiation (2021)

Trace every key event in Initiation (2021) 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

Kylie's Unconscious State

During a homecoming party, sorority member Kylie is found unconscious in a room with three members of Sigma Nu Pi: Beau, Dylan, and Wes. This alarming situation sets off a chain of events that will lead to tragic consequences.

Homecoming Party
2

Social Media Mockery

The next morning, Kylie's situation becomes the subject of cruel mockery on social media. This public humiliation adds pressure on her as she grapples with what happened during the party.

3

Seeking Help

Kylie reaches out to fellow sorority member Shayleen for support. Shayleen then approaches Ellery, another sorority sister, and they agree to get to the bottom of what happened to Kylie.

4

Investigation Begins

Ellery takes on the investigation into Kylie's incident, especially since Wes, a suspect, is her brother. She is determined to uncover the truth in light of Wes's troubling past with accusations of sexual assault.

5

Wes's Murder

Wes is discovered dead by Dylan and Beau, shocking the vicinity. His untimely death raises more questions and complicates matters for those involved, especially his sister Ellery.

6

Chancellor's Eulogy

In a surprising turn, the university chancellor, Van Horn, praises Wes's abilities in swimming during a public address. This moment demonstrates the institution's attempt to sanitize Wes's legacy after his murder.

University
7

Investigation by Police

Detective Sandra Fitzgerald and Officer Rico Martinez begin investigating Wes's murder. They uncover that many of the crimes, including a previous sexual assault case involving Wes, were covered up by the university administration.

8

More Murders Occur

As the investigation proceeds, Dylan and Beau also become victims of the unknown assailant. Their murders create an atmosphere of fear at the university and among the sorority members.

9

Confrontation with Van Horn

Ellery confronts Chancellor Van Horn over her investigation. Van Horn's anger suggests he has more to hide than just administrative errors regarding Wes's past.

University Office
10

Van Horn's Murder

After Ellery leaves the meeting, Van Horn is ambushed and murdered in his office by the assailant. This event illustrates the depths of corruption and violence present in the narrative.

University Office
11

Ellery and Kylie's Chase

Later, Ellery reunites with Kylie. They witness Van Horn's murder and are then pursued by the assailant, which puts their lives at risk and escalates the tension.

12

Final Confrontation

In the climax of the film, Ellery and Kylie manage to confront the murderer. The suspenseful chase ends with them successfully stabbing the killer, revealed to be Martinez.

13

Murderer's Motive Revealed

Martinez, Kylie's father, confesses to his crimes, motivated by the fraternity's history of sexual assaults and the university's cover-ups. This shocking revelation ties together the narrative's themes of justice and retribution.

14

Aftermath

In the aftermath of the murders, the university community is left in shock. The events raise awareness about the importance of addressing sexual assault and the failure of institutions to protect their students.

University

Last Updated: May 12, 2025 at 07:03

Unlock the Full Story of Initiation

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Initiation Summary

Read a complete plot summary of Initiation, 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.

Initiation Summary

Characters, Settings & Themes in Initiation

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

Characters, Settings & Themes in Initiation

More About Initiation

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More About Initiation

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