Taking Lives

Taking Lives

Year: 2004

Runtime: 103 min

Language: English

Director: D.J. Caruso

MysteryThriller

As a serial killer targets victims across Canada, FBI Agent Illeana Scott must navigate uncharted territory in Montreal, where her unconventional methods raise eyebrows among local authorities. Partnering with art dealer James Costa, who claims to have witnessed the latest murder, Scott's investigation sparks a sizzling attraction between them as they unravel the killer's twisted game.

Warning: spoilers below!

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Timeline – Taking Lives (2004)
Trace every key event in Taking Lives (2004) 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

Fleeing Home

A young man escapes from his home, showcasing a timid and unassuming demeanor. During his bus journey, he encounters another runaway, Matt Soulby, who has fled from military school seeking freedom.

Bus
2

Flat Tire Troubles

The adventure takes a sudden turn when the bus suffers a flat tire, forcing the young man and Matt to buy a second-hand car from a local mechanic. Their hopes are dashed yet again when the newly purchased car experiences another flat tire.

Local mechanic's shop
3

Tragic Accident

While repairing the flat tire, a tragic accident occurs when Matt is inadvertently pushed into the path of an oncoming vehicle. This devastating event results in the deaths of both Matt and the car's driver, leaving the young man in shock.

Roadside
4

Agent Illeana Scott Arrives

Special Agent Illeana Scott, portrayed by Angelina Jolie, is called to Montreal to assist in solving a murder case. She employs unconventional methods, including lying in the positions of victims to gather insights.

Montreal
5

The Killer’s Identity

As Illeana investigates, she theorizes that the elusive serial killer is taking on the identities of his victims. Her in-depth profiling begins to unravel the complexity of the murderer’s psyche.

Various crime scenes
6

Mrs. Archer's Discovery

In a shocking twist, Mrs. Archer, the mother of the serial killer, spots her presumed dead son on a ferry. Her attempts to alert the police are met with skepticism, as the case remains closed despite her pleas.

Ferry
7

James Costa the Witness

As the murder count increases, artist James Costa becomes a key witness. He possesses the ability to sketch the killer’s face, but his memories are clouded, leaving critical details unaccounted for.

Police station
8

Exploring the Past

Despite police protection for Mrs. Asher, she refuses to register her home. Agent Scott takes it upon herself to investigate, leading her to a disturbing penthouse filled with relics from the killer’s childhood.

Abandoned penthouse
9

Complicated Romantic Involvement

As the case heats up, Agent Scott becomes romantically involved with Costa, which complicates her ability to focus on the investigation. The Canadian authorities trust her instincts, though, insisting she remains on the case.

Various locations
10

The Violent Confrontation

The tension culminates in a brutal confrontation between Costa and his malevolent twin, Hart. Costa is injured in the struggle, while Hart's escape turns deadly when his car explodes, marking a pivotal moment.

Remote location
11

The Reality of Loss

Mrs. Asher faces the heartbreaking reality of her son’s death, choosing to remain silent in grief as she gazes into his lifeless eyes. The police show little sympathy, mocking her emotional turmoil at this grave moment.

Police station
12

Tracking Mrs. Asher

Driven by her instincts, Illeana follows Mrs. Asher, who has reluctantly taken an elevator ride with Costa. This decision results in a chilling discovery that leaves Illeana alarmed about the serious dangers at play.

Building elevator
13

Illeana's Fallout

As the narrative shifts, Illeana finds herself back in the U.S., facing dire circumstances as she navigates life without her badge and unexpectedly discovers that she is pregnant. This complicates her emotional state and the threat she faces.

U.S.
14

Final Showdown

In a harrowing climax, Illeana confronts Costa, who poses a significant threat to her and her unborn children. Utilizing her wits, she reveals a deception about her pregnancy just as she fights for her life, delivering a fatal blow.

Abandoned warehouse
15

Closing Chapters

With the violence subsiding, Illeana reaches out to Leclair for support, indicating her willingness to face the aftermath and the inevitable investigations. This moment signifies the closing of a turbulent chapter in her life.

Illeana's home

Last Updated: October 27, 2024 at 19:04

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