Lawless

Lawless

Year: 2012

Runtime: 116 min

Language: English

Director: John Hillcoat

DramaCrimeWestern

During Prohibition, in a rural Virginia, the Bondurant brothers run a successful moonshining business. As their operation grows, they attract the attention of corrupt law enforcement officials and rival gangsters, leading to violent clashes and dangerous alliances. The film explores themes of family, loyalty, and the fight for survival in a lawless landscape, inspired by a remarkable true story.

Warning: spoilers below!

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Timeline – Lawless (2012)

Trace every key event in Lawless (2012) 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 Bondurant Brothers Begin Bootlegging

During the Prohibition era, the Bondurant brothers – Forrest, Howard, and Jack – establish a successful liquor bootlegging operation in Franklin County, Virginia. They cleverly use their bar as a front to camouflage their illegal activities, allowing them to thrive amidst the legal crackdown.

Franklin County, Virginia
2

Jack Witnesses Violence

Jack Bondurant witnesses a harrowing event where mobster Floyd Banner eliminates a rival in a chilling display of power. This incident serves as a warning that the world of bootlegging is fraught with danger and imminent complications lurk around every corner.

3

Maggie Beauford Joins the Team

Forrest Bondurant recruits Maggie Beauford, a captivating dancer from Chicago, to be their new waitress. Her arrival brings a fresh dynamic to their operation, and the brothers begin to form deeper connections with her.

4

Confrontation with Special Agent Rakes

Their burgeoning operation catches the attention of Special Agent Charlie Rakes, who arrives with an ultimatum from District Attorney Mason Wardell. Forrest brazenly confronts Rakes, vowing never to give in to threats, which sets off a series of confrontations.

5

Jack's Romantic Pursuit

Amidst the turmoil of bootlegging, Jack becomes romantically interested in Bertha Minnix, the local preacher's daughter. In an attempt to impress her, he embarrassingly draws attention to himself during church, ultimately piquing her curiosity.

6

Violent Intimidation

As tension escalates, Rakes initiates a violent campaign against the Bondurants, including a brutal raid on Cricket Pate's home, their loyal friend. This marks the beginning of an intense struggle for power and survival against Rakes’ increasingly violent tactics.

7

Jack's Beating and Rise

Jack attempts to defend Cricket during the raid but suffers a brutal beating at the hands of Rakes and his men. Following this event, Forrest encourages Jack to learn to stand up for himself, recognizing the need for strength in their dangerous line of work.

8

Double-Cross in Chicago

The brothers attempt to expand their business by securing connections in Chicago but find themselves ambushed and double-crossed. Just as hope seems lost, they receive unexpected assistance from Floyd Banner, who helps them navigate this betrayal.

9

Retribution Against Assailants

With the insights provided by Banner, the Bondurants set out to exact revenge on their attackers. Their calculated approach leads to a successful retribution that reinforces their power in the bootlegging business.

10

Confrontation at the Distillation Site

A visit to the distillation site with Bertha culminates in a dire confrontation with Rakes and his men. The chaos that ensues culminates in Howard incapacitating Rakes, although Jack's attempt to finish him off leads to their hasty escape.

Distillation site
11

Tragic Loss of Cricket

Tragedy strikes when Rakes captures and kills Cricket, deepening the Bondurant brothers' thirst for vengeance. Jack, propelled by anger and grief, vows to make Rakes pay for the loss of their friend and ally.

12

Rallying for Vengeance at the Bridge

In a show of solidarity, Jack seeks out Rakes at a local bridge, rallying his brothers to confront the threat once and for all. Despite Maggie's impassioned pleas to protect Forrest, he chooses to stand by his brothers in this defining moment.

Local bridge
13

The Climactic Showdown

The confrontation results in a fierce firefight, leaving Forrest severely injured but not before Jack manages to shoot Rakes. In the throes of battle, Howard delivers the fatal blow to Rakes, marking a turning point for the brothers.

14

Building New Lives

With Rakes and his gang finally vanquished, the Bondurants contemplate their future and resolve to save their money until Prohibition ends. As new beginnings emerge, Jack marries Bertha, Forrest weds Maggie, and Howard starts a family.

15

A Somber Conclusion

The brothers' newfound happiness takes a tragic turn when Forrest, drunken and careless, tumbles into a frozen lake. The pneumonia that ensues takes his life, leaving the family in mourning and solidifying the weight of their sacrifices during an era of turmoil.

Last Updated: November 04, 2024 at 00:19

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Lawless Summary

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Lawless Summary

Characters, Settings & Themes in Lawless

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Characters, Settings & Themes in Lawless

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