Patty Hearst

Patty Hearst

Year: 1988

Runtime: 108 min

Language: English

Director: Paul Schrader

BiographyDrama

The film portrays the story of Patricia Hearst, a young newspaper heiress whose life takes a dramatic turn when she is kidnapped by a radical group. Initially presented as a victim, Hearst unexpectedly aligns herself with her captors, participating in their criminal activities, including bank robberies. The story explores the complex psychological factors that contribute to her transformation, raising questions about manipulation, coercion, and the shifting boundaries of identity as authorities attempt to understand her actions and the truth behind the case.

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Timeline – Patty Hearst (1988)

Trace every key event in Patty Hearst (1988) 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

Patty Hearst's Kidnapping

On February 4, 1974, in Berkeley, California, the life of nineteen-year-old Patty Hearst takes a tragic turn as she is kidnapped from her home. Her fiancé, Steven Weed, narrowly escapes the harrowing ordeal as her captors take her away, marking the beginning of her tumultuous journey.

February 4, 1974 Berkeley, California
2

Initial Confinement

Following her abduction, Patty is confined in the trunk of a car before being transferred to a locked closet. For days, she experiences minimal interaction with her captors, who only appear as shadows, intensifying her fear and isolation.

3

Introduction to the SLA

One of her captors, Cinque, introduces himself as the field marshal of the Symbionese Liberation Army (SLA). He reveals the group's intentions to exchange Patty for imprisoned SLA members, establishing the initial terms of her captivity.

4

SLA's Demands

The SLA continues to indoctrinate Patty with their radical ideologies, demanding that her wealthy family fund a program to provide $70 worth of free groceries to every needy Californian. This demand is rejected by Patty's father, Randolph Hearst, who deems it financially unfeasible.

5

Patty's Induction

Days of captivity take their toll as Patty grows weak and fatigued. Ultimately, she is faced with an ultimatum: join the SLA or face execution, and under duress, she reluctantly chooses to align herself with her captors’ cause.

6

New Identity

On April 3, 1974, after two months of being blindfolded, Patty's sight is restored. She meets Cinque and other SLA members for the first time, receiving a military makeover and the new identity of 'Tanya,' solidifying her transformation into a member of the SLA.

April 3, 1974
7

The Bank Heist

On April 15, 1974, Patty participates in a bank robbery where Cinque announces their affiliation with the SLA. The robbery spirals out of control when a civilian is shot, marking a significant turning point in Patty’s commitment to the group.

April 15, 1974
8

Growing Vigilance

Post-robbery, Patty, now known as Tanya, is warned by fellow members Teko and Yolanda to remain vigilant as their actions are drawing increased attention. As notoriety rises, so does the tension within the group, which intensifies their criminal pursuits.

9

Relocation to Los Angeles

On May 9, 1974, the SLA moves to Los Angeles, continuing their series of desperate measures. The relocation is marked by a series of incidents, including thefts and growing violence as Patty becomes more entrenched in their radical lifestyle.

May 9, 1974 Los Angeles
10

Escalating Violence

On May 16, 1974, while Teko and Yolanda shoplift, a standoff occurs with a security guard. In an act signifying her full allegiance to the SLA, Patty intervenes by firing her weapon, showcasing her deepening commitment to the group’s violent actions.

May 16, 1974
11

Tragic Siege

As police close in on their hideout, the SLA members face a tragic end. The group's location is set ablaze, resulting in the deaths of all six SLA members, marking a devastating blow to their radical movement.

12

Regrouping and Plans

In November 1974, Teko calls for a regrouping after their devastating losses, advocating for a more aggressive approach against police forces. Their frustrations grow, indicating a shift towards even more violent tactics as they plot further crimes.

November 1974
13

FBI Raid

The saga culminates on September 18, 1975, when the FBI raids the SLA's safe house, leading to the arrest of Patty Hearst and Wendy Yoshimura. The raid marks the downfall of the SLA and the beginning of a contentious legal battle for Patty.

September 18, 1975
14

Trial and Conviction

As Patty's trial commences, she struggles with mounting evidence against her. Despite her assertions of not being brainwashed, she faces a jury that ultimately convicts her of bank robbery and the use of firearms, altering her life forever.

15

Sentencing and Commutation

On July 22, 1976, Patty is sentenced to seven years in federal prison after her appeal is denied by the Supreme Court. However, on February 1, 1979, she receives a commutation from President Jimmy Carter, allowing her to begin a new chapter in her life.

July 22, 1976; February 1, 1979

Last Updated: October 25, 2024 at 10:32

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Patty Hearst Summary

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Characters, Settings & Themes in Patty Hearst

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Characters, Settings & Themes in Patty Hearst

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