Shaft

Shaft

Year: 1971

Runtime: 100 min

Language: English

Director: Gordon Parks

ActionThrillerCrime

In this high-octane thriller, ace detective John Shaft takes on a personal mission when a powerful crime lord enlists his services to rescue his estranged daughter from the clutches of ruthless kidnappers. With his sharp wits and quick fists, Shaft navigates a treacherous underworld of corruption and deceit to bring justice to those who dare to cross him.

Warning: spoilers below!

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Timeline – Shaft (1971)
Trace every key event in Shaft (1971) 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

Shaft and Maya's Argument

In the sweltering streets of Harlem in 1989, John Shaft and his partner, Maya Babanikos, find themselves engaged in a heated argument. Their relationship is tested as they navigate the dangers of their environment, foreshadowing the challenges to come.

1989 Harlem
2

Confrontation with Assailants

Just as tensions escalate between Shaft and Maya, a group of heavily armed assailants confronts them. With remarkable reflexes, Shaft steps into action, eliminating the threat and protecting Maya from harm.

1989 Harlem
3

Discovery of Illegal Drugs

During their frantic search for answers, Shaft and Maya stumble upon a shocking stash of illegal drugs. This discovery ties them to the notorious crime lord, Pierro 'Gordito' Carrera, unveiling the dark underbelly of their city.

1989 Harlem
4

Realization of Dangerous Life

In the aftermath of their close encounter with danger, Shaft and Maya come to a pivotal realization. They understand that a life entangled in crime and danger cannot coexist with the wholesome task of raising their young son, leading to their reluctant separation.

5

JJ Graduates from MIT

Fast forward twenty-five years, and John Jr., also known as JJ, has graduated from MIT and established himself as a cybersecurity expert. He is now working with the FBI, where he is surrounded by supportive friends and colleagues.

2020s
6

Monitoring the Mosque

Under the watchful eye of Special Agent Vietti, JJ begins monitoring the Rashad Azzam Mosque and its Imam, Farik Bahar. Despite wanting to ensure the investigation is fair, JJ feels the pressure to dive deeper into the suspicious activities surrounding the mosque.

Rashad Azzam Mosque
7

Death of Karim

After a night out with friends, JJ is devastated to learn of his friend Karim's death from an overdose. The news sends shockwaves through their group, prompting JJ to investigate the circumstances surrounding Karim's untimely demise.

8

JJ's Pursuit of Justice

Driven by the desire to find justice for Karim, JJ embarks on a quest to uncover the truth behind his friend's death. He tracks down a key figure in the underground world, which leads to an ambush that puts his life in jeopardy.

9

Father-Son Reunion

In a moment filled with tension, JJ reaches out to his estranged father, Shaft, for help. Their first meeting is fraught with unresolved issues, yet JJ's injuries prompt Shaft to step in and guide his son through the investigation.

10

Confrontation at the Crime Scene

Shaft leads JJ back to the crime scene where Karim was found. Utilizing his street skills, Shaft effectively confronts Manny's men, who are already aware of his menacing reputation, leading to critical information being revealed about Karim's last moments.

Crime Scene
11

Nightlife Adventure

Shaft takes JJ out to experience the nightlife of the city. However, their night takes a chaotic turn when JJ finds himself unwittingly embroiled in a fight, much to the embarrassment of his father and the ruin of their evening.

Nightclub
12

Investigation into the Supermarket

Shaft and JJ confront the manager of a new supermarket suspected of being a front for drug operations. They gather intel that suggests deeper and more sinister dealings, leading JJ to install a micro-camera to unveil the truth.

Supermarket
13

Attack During Dinner

During a dinner date with Maya, an armed assault disrupts their moment of peace. Shaft swiftly reacts to protect Maya, highlighting the constant threat that looms over their lives and the dangers they continue to face.

Restaurant
14

Confrontation with Gordito

In a climactic showdown, Shaft, JJ, and Shaft Sr. confront crime lord Gordito and his enforcer in a fierce battle. As they fight against overwhelming odds, JJ faces his adversaries, ultimately saving his friends but suffering a heavy loss.

Gordito's Stronghold
15

New Beginnings

Following the dramatic events, Shaft awakens to the relieved faces of his family, marking a turning point in their relationships. JJ decides to embrace a life of vigilante justice alongside his father and grandfather, ready to face whatever comes next.

Last Updated: November 17, 2024 at 13:19

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