Red Heat

Red Heat

Year: 1988

Runtime: 104 min

Language: English

Director: Walter Hill

ActionThrillerComedyCrime

A seasoned Moscow detective and a wisecracking Chicago cop team up to take down a ruthless Soviet drug lord. As they navigate the treacherous underworld of organized crime, their vastly different approaches clash in a hilarious game of cat-and-mouse.

Warning: spoilers below!

Haven’t seen Red Heat 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 – Red Heat (1988)
Trace every key event in Red Heat (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

Danko Sets the Trap

Captain Ivan Danko formulates a plan to capture the notorious drug lord Viktor Rostavili. This strategic ambush is designed to snare Viktor and his criminal empire, but it fails to go as expected, leading to unforeseen consequences.

Moscow
2

The Escape

Despite Danko's meticulous preparations, the ambush goes awry, allowing Viktor to escape. The chaotic encounter leaves several Moscow police officers dead, including Danko's close partner, intensifying Danko's resolve.

Moscow
3

Viktor Flees to the U.S.

After the ambush, Viktor Rostavili flees to the United States, evading justice temporarily. His escape marks a critical point in the investigation, as law enforcement scrambles to catch him across borders.

United States
4

Ridzik Takes Over

In Chicago, Detective-Sergeant Art Ridzik is assigned to investigate a series of murders linked to Viktor's drug cartel. Ridzik's loud and brash personality stands in stark contrast to the serious nature of the case.

Chicago
5

Danko's Summons

Following Viktor's arrest in Chicago, Captain Danko is summoned to the U.S. to ensure the drug lord's safe return to Moscow. This unexpected twist sets the stage for a collaboration that neither man anticipated.

Chicago
6

Forced Cooperation

Danko and Ridzik are compelled to work together after Viktor's daring escape from custody. Their partnership is strained as they grapple with their differing approaches to law enforcement and personal loss.

Chicago
7

Discontent in Cooperation

As they team up, Danko expresses his frustration about Chicago's chaotic crime scene, pointing out the disparities between the organization of crime and the police force. This commentary highlights the challenges they face.

Chicago
8

The Wild Chase

In a desperate bid to corner Viktor, Danko and Ridzik engage in a thrilling chase across the city. They commandeer Greyhound buses, creating chaos as they pursue Viktor and his gang through the streets of Chicago.

Chicago
9

Confrontation with Law Enforcement

The high-speed chase culminates in a confrontation with local law enforcement, who attempt to restore order amidst the destruction. This intervention adds complications to the already tumultuous pursuit.

Chicago
10

The Climax

The intense climax occurs when Viktor encounters a train during a standoff with Danko. This nail-biting moment leads to a series of events that will ultimately seal Viktor's fate.

Chicago
11

The Texas Shootout

In a dramatic showdown, Danko faces Viktor in a Texas-style shootout armed with a Smith & Wesson Model 29 .44 Magnum. The tension escalates as they exchange gunfire, showcasing their skills and determination.

Chicago
12

Viktor's Downfall

Ultimately, Danko's resolve pays off as he prevails in the showdown, leading to Viktor's demise. This decisive moment signifies the end of the drug lord's reign and vindicates Danko's efforts.

Chicago
13

A Bond Formed

After successfully bringing Viktor to justice, Danko and Ridzik exchange wristwatches as a symbolic gesture of goodwill. This act illustrates the unique bond they've formed through their harrowing experience.

Chicago
14

Danko Prepares to Depart

With Viktor's capture and the chaos subsided, Danko prepares to return to Moscow. The experience has transformed him and marked a significant chapter in his career as a law enforcer.

Chicago

Last Updated: November 03, 2024 at 11:35

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