Salvador

Salvador

Year: 1986

Runtime: 122 min

Language: Catalan

Director: Oliver Stone

DramaHistoryThrillerWar

During the 1970s in Spain, Salvador Puig Antich, a passionate revolutionary, undertakes a dangerous mission against the oppressive Franco regime. Facing political repression and escalating violence, he fights for change while risking his own life and freedom. His unwavering defiance presents a significant challenge to the ruling powers and puts him on a collision course with those determined to silence him.

Warning: spoilers below!

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Timeline – Salvador (1986)

Trace every key event in Salvador (1986) 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

Richard's Life as a Photojournalist

Richard Boyle, a veteran photojournalist, has spent more than two decades reporting on global conflicts. However, despite his dedication, his struggles with substance abuse and a battered reputation leave him struggling to find work.

1980 California
2

The Departure of Richard's Family

Richard wakes up to the heart-wrenching news that his wife has left him, taking their child with her. This sudden abandonment plunges him into deeper financial and emotional turmoil.

California
3

Teaming Up with Doctor Rock

In search of a new beginning, Richard teams up with his best friend Doctor Rock, a struggling disc jockey. Together, they decide to travel to El Salvador, believing there might be freelance opportunities amidst the chaos.

California
4

Arrival in El Salvador

Upon their arrival in El Salvador, Richard and Doctor Rock are immediately confronted with the grim realities of the political turmoil. They witness the execution of a teenage student, a shocking event that starkly reveals the conflict’s brutality.

El Salvador
5

Meeting with the General

Richard seeks out a general he had met during the Football War, hoping to gain insight into the situation. They are taken to a makeshift army barrack, where Richard learns of U.S. military support for the Salvadoran government.

Converted School in El Salvador
6

Reconnecting with María

While in El Salvador, Richard reconnects with his former lover, María. This complicated relationship draws him deeper into the humanitarian crisis, as he grapples with his feelings of responsibility towards her and her children.

El Salvador
7

Tragic Mass and Assassination

Richard and María attend a mass led by Archbishop Oscar Romero, a moment filled with hope that quickly turns to horror. An assassin silences the Archbishop, and chaos erupts as military forces open fire on the fleeing crowd.

El Salvador
8

Plea to the U.S. Ambassador

Concerned about the human rights violations, Richard seeks to persuade the U.S. ambassador to pull support from the Salvadoran government. His impassioned plea is met with indifference, leaving him disheartened and frustrated.

El Salvador
9

Entanglement with Military Affairs

In an effort to protect María, Richard becomes increasingly involved with the military. This involvement leads to tragic consequences, including the loss of innocent lives, heightening the stakes of their precarious situation.

El Salvador
10

Tragic Death of John Cassady

Richard's friend and fellow journalist, John Cassady, is killed during a skirmish with the Salvadoran army. His tragic death serves as a grim reminder of the violent reality facing journalists covering the conflict.

El Salvador
11

Journey to a New Life

Richard and María embark on a perilous journey through Guatemala and Mexico, hoping to find safety in the United States. Their adventure reflects both hope and desperation as they strive for a new beginning.

Guatemala and Mexico
12

Heart-wrenching Decision

As they finally reach California, the couple faces immigration officials who halt their journey. In a heartbreaking choice, María decides to be deported with her children, leaving Richard behind to continue his fight.

California
13

Epilogue of Hope

The film closes with a glimmer of hope; María and her children are rumored to be safe in a Guatemalan refugee camp. Meanwhile, Richard remains in search of them, haunted by memories of the past.

14

Continuing the Search

Despite the obstacles, Richard returns to his life, determined to continue seeking out María and her children. The impact of John Cassady's published photographs lingers in his mind, serving as a reminder of the cost of war.

California

Last Updated: November 02, 2024 at 13:38

Unlock the Full Story of Salvador

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Salvador Summary

Read a complete plot summary of Salvador, 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.

Salvador Summary

Characters, Settings & Themes in Salvador

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Characters, Settings & Themes in Salvador

More About Salvador

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