Payback

Payback

Year: 1999

Runtime: 100 min

Language: English

Director: Brian Helgeland

ActionThrillerCrime

After a daring heist goes terribly wrong, con man Porter is left for dead and betrayed by his partners. He survives and seeks retribution, relentlessly pursuing those who wronged him while also aiming to reclaim the stolen money. Driven by a desire for justice and the recovery of his share, Porter embarks on a dangerous path filled with deception and violence.

Warning: spoilers below!

Haven’t seen Payback 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 – Payback (1999)

Trace every key event in Payback (1999) 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

Porter's Grave Injury

In a dimly lit and filthy kitchen, Porter, portrayed by Mel Gibson, lies face down on a table suffering from grave injuries inflicted by gunshots. A desperate doctor, aiming to save his life, pours whiskey onto Porter's wounds as a makeshift sterilizer before extracting the bullets.

Dark Kitchen
2

The Recovery Phase

After enduring a traumatic experience, Porter spends five long months in recovery. During this time, he reflects on the $70,000 stolen from him, igniting a burning desire to reclaim what is rightfully his.

Five Months Later
3

First Theft

Upon leaving the subway, Porter resorts to theft for survival and shamelessly takes cash from a blind man's donation hat. His nonchalant attitude toward his actions sets the tone for his morally ambiguous journey ahead.

Subway Station
4

The Shopping Spree

Porter spots a man who resembles him and successfully lifts the man's wallet. With newfound cash, he indulges in a lavish shopping spree, picking up fine clothes and jewelry to pawn, all while maintaining a façade of confidence despite his declining fortunes.

Afternoon City Sidewalk
5

Credit Card Decline

While attempting to settle his bill at a restaurant, Porter is met with embarrassment when his credit card is declined. Instead of facing the consequences, he instructs the waiter to retry before escaping without paying.

Restaurant
6

Quest for Revenge

Driven by revenge, Porter begins tracking down his former partner, Val Resnick, and his estranged wife, Lynn. Both had abandoned him after a heist gone wrong, and he is determined to confront them for their betrayal.

7

The Role of Rosie

Porter seeks out Rosie, a call girl connected to the criminal organization he is pursuing. Their complicated history adds layers to the story as they navigate their fraught relationship, marred by jealousy and betrayal.

8

Confrontation with Resnick

Porter tracks down Resnick, who is found in a compromising situation with a dominatrix. The confrontation takes a violent turn, culminating in Porter's shocking decision to shoot Resnick amidst escalating tensions.

Rosie's Apartment
9

Outfit's Retaliation

After murdering Resnick, Porter faces immediate repercussions as the Outfit sends a hit squad after him. He unexpectedly dispatches three of them in a brutal encounter, showcasing his tenacity and survival instincts.

10

Kidnapping Scheme

With Rosie's help, Porter devises a kidnapping scheme to get revenge on mob boss Bronson. By abducting Bronson's son, Johnny, Porter sends a strong message while attempting to leverage Bronson to repay his debt.

11

Framing the Detectives

Using cunning strategy, Porter plots to frame corrupt detectives Hicks and Leary by planting evidence. By discarding Leary's badge and evidence near Resnick's body, Porter hopes to turn the tables on his adversaries.

12

Captured by the Outfit

Despite his meticulous planning, Porter is ultimately captured by the Outfit amidst chaotic circumstances involving the triads. His bravery is put to the test as he faces intense torture at the hands of his captors.

Apartment
13

Rescue by Rosie

In a surprising turn, Rosie returns to rescue Porter from his dire situation before it becomes fatal. The clever use of explosives leads to the demise of his enemies while also facilitating his escape.

Apartment
14

The Final Escape

After surviving the brutal ordeal, Porter escapes with Rosie in tow. With a humorous quip about his condition, they set off towards Canada, indicating a potential fresh start in their lives.

Road to Canada

Last Updated: October 28, 2024 at 17:40

Unlock the Full Story of Payback

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Payback Summary

Read a complete plot summary of Payback, 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.

Payback Summary

Characters, Settings & Themes in Payback

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Characters, Settings & Themes in Payback

More About Payback

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More About Payback

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