Red Heat (1988) Full Movie Summary & Plot Explained

Red Heat

Year: 1988

Runtime: 104 min

Language: English

Director: Walter Hill

ActionThrillerComedyCrime

A veteran detective from Moscow is sent to Chicago to pursue a notorious Soviet drug lord who has been trafficking in the city. He reluctantly partners with a local, wisecracking police officer, and the two must overcome their cultural differences and contrasting styles as they work together to bring the criminal to justice. Their pursuit leads them through the dangerous world of organized crime, resulting in a humorous and action-packed collaboration.

Captain Ivan Danko of the Moscow Militia orchestrates a trap for the elusive Viktor Rostavili, a notorious Georgian drug lord and crime kingpin. However, the ambush doesn’t go as planned, and Viktor manages to escape the clutches of the Soviet law enforcement, fleeing to the United States after a violent encounter that results in the deaths of several Moscow police officers, including Danko’s partner.

In the bustling city of Chicago, the loud and brash Detective-Sergeant Art Ridzik steps in to investigate the string of murders that have been linked to Viktor’s cartel. After his arrest in Chicago, Viktor’s journey back to Moscow takes a twist when Danko is summoned to ensure his return for justice. Unexpectedly, the two men, Danko and Ridzik, find themselves forced to work together following Viktor’s daring escape, which leads to the tragic loss of Ridzik’s partner.

Frustration mounts for Danko, especially as his lack of a diplomatic license prevents him from wielding a weapon. He candidly shares his thoughts with Ridzik, stating, > “This Chicago is very strange city. Your crime is organized, but your police is not.” This line underscores the chaos engulfing their pursuit.

The duo soon embarks on a wild chase across the city, tracking down Viktor and his cronies. The excitement escalates as they commandeer a couple of Greyhound buses, engaging in a high-octane pursuit that leaves a trail of destruction throughout Chicago until law enforcement finally intervenes.

The climax reaches its peak when Viktor meets his fate after a dramatic collision with a train during a tense standoff with Danko. Armed with a Smith & Wesson Model 29 .44 Magnum—a gift from Ridzik—Danko faces off against Viktor in a nail-biting Texas-style shootout, ultimately leading to Viktor’s downfall. After bringing order back to the tumultuous event, Danko prepares to return to Moscow, exchanging wristwatches with Ridzik as a gesture of goodwill, signifying the unusual bond formed between them in the heat of chaos.

Last Updated: November 03, 2024 at 11:35

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