Tequila Sunrise

Tequila Sunrise

Year: 1988

Runtime: 115 min

Language: English

Director: Robert Towne

ActionThrillerRomanceCrime

Set against the backdrop of the California coast, a former drug dealer named Mac tries to stay on the right side of the law, while Detective Nick bares down on a Mexican drug lord named Carlos. As Nick investigates, he finds himself falling for Mac's old flame, Jo Ann. This complicates matters when Nick unknowingly sets Mac up in a police operation, jeopardizing their friendship and forcing Nick to confront his own loyalties and the blurred lines between justice and personal feelings.

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Timeline & Setting – Tequila Sunrise (1988)

Explore the full timeline and setting of Tequila Sunrise (1988). Follow every major event in chronological order and see how the environment shapes the story, characters, and dramatic tension.

Time period

The movie is likely set in a contemporary era reflecting the late 20th century, a time when drug-related crime and DEA activities prominently influenced society. This period also encapsulates the complicated moral landscape of law enforcement versus friendship.

Location

Hotel, Marina

The movie is set in locations that highlight both the glamor and danger of the drug trade. The hotel represents a site of transaction where deals go awry, reflecting the chaos of Mac's life. The marina serves as a dramatic backdrop for the climax, symbolizing both escape and confrontation in a high-stakes environment.

🏨 Venue 🌊 Waterbody

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 20:30

Main Characters – Tequila Sunrise (1988)

Meet the key characters of Tequila Sunrise (1988), with detailed profiles, motivations, and roles in the plot. Understand their emotional journeys and what they reveal about the film’s deeper themes.

Dale 'Mac' McKussic

Mac is a former drug dealer attempting to reform and lead a legitimate life. His struggle with temptation and the gravitational pull of his past defines his character arc. He is portrayed as caring, especially towards his son and Jo Ann, yet is caught in situations that threaten his reformation.

🕵️‍♂️ Redemption 💼 Drug Trade ❤️ Love

Detective Lieutenant Nick Frescia

Nick is Mac's old friend and a dedicated law enforcement officer. His loyalty to Mac conflicts with his profession as he seeks justice while caring for his friend. Nick's complex character represents the emotional struggles of balancing personal ties with duty.

🔍 Duty 🚓 Law Enforcement 🤝 Friendship

Jo Ann Vallenari

Jo Ann is a captivating restaurateur caught in the turmoil of Mac's past. She embodies the theme of love intertwined with danger, as her feelings for Mac place her at risk. Her growth throughout the movie reflects a journey of understanding and resilience.

🍽️ Restaurateur 💕 Romance 🛡️ Vulnerability

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 20:30

Major Themes – Tequila Sunrise (1988)

Explore the central themes of Tequila Sunrise (1988), from psychological, social, and emotional dimensions to philosophical messages. Understand what the film is really saying beneath the surface.

💔 Love & Betrayal

The theme of love contrasts sharply with betrayal in 'Tequila Sunrise.' Mac’s romantic involvement with Jo Ann complicates Nick's duty as her protector and his friendship with Mac. Throughout the movie, loyalty is tested as relationships become entangled with illegal activities.

⚖️ Moral Dilemmas

The film explores the often-blurred lines between right and wrong as Nick grapples with his duty and loyalty to Mac. Both characters face moral dilemmas that challenge their principles, especially as Mac tries to escape his past while remaining entangled in it.

🔫 Crime & Consequences

Set against the backdrop of drug trafficking, the narrative shows the direct consequences of crime on personal lives and relationships. Mac’s struggle to leave the drug world behind illustrates the pervasive influence of his past, leading to ultimately destructive choices.

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 20:30

Unlock the Full Story of Tequila Sunrise

Don't stop at just watching — explore Tequila Sunrise in full detail. From the complete plot summary and scene-by-scene timeline to character breakdowns, thematic analysis, and a deep dive into the ending — every page helps you truly understand what Tequila Sunrise is all about. Plus, discover what's next after the movie.

Tequila Sunrise Summary

Read a complete plot summary of Tequila Sunrise, 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.

Tequila Sunrise Summary

Tequila Sunrise Timeline

Track the full timeline of Tequila Sunrise with every major event arranged chronologically. Perfect for decoding non-linear storytelling, flashbacks, or parallel narratives with a clear scene-by-scene breakdown.

Tequila Sunrise Timeline

More About Tequila Sunrise

Visit What's After the Movie to explore more about Tequila Sunrise: box office results, cast and crew info, production details, post-credit scenes, and external links — all in one place for movie fans and researchers.

More About Tequila Sunrise

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