Polytechnique

Polytechnique

Year: 2011

Runtime: 77 min

Language: French

Director: Denis Villeneuve

DramaHistoryCrime

Inspired by a tragic real-life event, Polytechnique depicts the horrifying attack on École Polytechnique in Montreal, where a gunman targeted female engineering students. The film explores the devastating impact of this senseless act of violence, portraying the immediate aftermath and the profound grief experienced by the survivors and the community. It offers a stark and unflinching look at the tragedy and its far-reaching consequences.

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Timeline – Polytechnique (2011)

Trace every key event in Polytechnique (2011) 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

Preparation for the Attack

A young man meticulously prepares his rifle and writes a heartfelt message to his mother. This moment marks the beginning of a tragic and horrific event that is about to unfold.

Before the attack Home
2

Entering the Classroom

The assailant enters a classroom at Polytechnique Montreal with his weapon drawn, disrupting the ongoing lesson. His entrance initiates a chilling silence, as students realize the severity of the situation.

During class hours Polytechnique Montreal, Classroom
3

Targeting the Men

The young man demands the men in the classroom to vacate while instructing the women to remain. This act showcases his intention to target only female students, igniting fear among those present.

Shortly after entering Polytechnique Montreal, Classroom
4

Demonstrating Intent

To demonstrate the seriousness of his intentions, he fires a shot into the ceiling. This decisive action solidifies his control over the room and heightens the terror felt by the frightened students.

Immediately after targeting the men Polytechnique Montreal, Classroom
5

Opening Fire

Despite the terrified protests from the women asserting they are not feminists, the shooter opens fire. This brutal act of violence leaves some students dead and others gravely wounded, escalating the horror.

Moments after firing into the ceiling Polytechnique Montreal, Classroom
6

The Rampage Begins

The chaos escalates as the assailant roams through the hallways and cafeteria. He specifically targets women, reflecting the premeditated nature of his attack and spreading fear across the campus.

Following the classroom shooting Polytechnique Montreal, Hallways and Cafeteria
7

Jean-François Takes a Stand

Jean-François, ordered to exit the classroom, bravely decides to confront the shooter and assist the injured. His act of defiance demonstrates courage in the face of danger, as he tries to rescue his classmates.

During the ongoing attack Polytechnique Montreal
8

Survival Instincts

Valérie and Stéphanie manage to survive the initial attack by playing dead. They hope this strategy will help them escape the killer's notice during the chaotic moments of terror.

After initial shots are fired Polytechnique Montreal, Classroom
9

Tragic Loss

Despite their efforts to remain unnoticed, Stéphanie later succumbs to her injuries. This amplifies the tragedy of the day and leaves a profound impact on the survivors.

After the attack Polytechnique Montreal, Hospital
10

Execution of a Lecturer

During the rampage, the shooter finds another classroom and ruthlessly murders a female lecturer. This act underscores the terror and indiscriminate nature of his violence against women.

During the rampage Polytechnique Montreal, Another Classroom
11

Shooter's Despair

In a moment of despair, the assailant turns the weapon on himself, taking his own life. This tragic conclusion results in a gruesome mingling of his blood with that of his victims, marking the end of the attack.

At the end of the rampage Polytechnique Montreal
12

Aftermath and Guilt

In the aftermath of the massacre, Jean-François is plagued by guilt for leaving the women behind. Unable to cope with his feelings, he tragically ends his own life through carbon monoxide poisoning.

Shortly after the attack Jean-François's Home
13

Valérie's Resilience

Valérie, now wearing the Iron Ring, symbolizing her status as a Canadian engineer, discovers she is pregnant. This news brings both hope and determination as she resolves to teach her child about love and kindness.

After the attack Unknown Location
14

A Hope for the Future

Valérie is determined to instill resilience in her child, whether a son or daughter. She hopes to raise them to embrace kindness and understand that the world belongs to them, even amidst the tragedy.

Post-attack Unknown Location

Last Updated: November 08, 2024 at 03:46

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Polytechnique Summary

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Polytechnique Summary

Characters, Settings & Themes in Polytechnique

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Characters, Settings & Themes in Polytechnique

Polytechnique Spoiler-Free Summary

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Polytechnique Spoiler-Free Summary

More About Polytechnique

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