The American

The American

Year: 2010

Runtime: 105 min

Language: English

Director: Anton Corbijn

DramaThrillerCrime

A lone American assassin, Jack, seeks refuge in Italy's picturesque Abruzzo region after a botched job leaves him reeling. As he settles into a quiet life, Jack becomes embroiled with a mysterious contact, takes up with a stunning local woman, Clara, and forms an unlikely bond with a priest. But his attempts to leave danger behind may only invite it back into his life.

Warning: spoilers below!

Haven’t seen The American 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 – The American (2010)
Trace every key event in The American (2010) 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

Quiet Retreat in Sweden

Jack and his lover Ingrid find solace in a remote cabin in Sweden, seeking peace away from their tumultuous lives. This tranquil setting quickly turns chaotic when an unexpected threat appears, shattering their moment of respite.

Sweden
2

The First Attack

While enjoying their time together, Jack discovers a single set of footprints in the snow, heightening his sense of danger. Just as he senses the threat, sniper shots ring out, marking the beginning of a harrowing experience.

Cabin in Sweden
3

Ingrid's Shock and Betrayal

After Jack neutralizes the sniper, Ingrid is left in a state of shock, struggling to comprehend the violent turn of events. When Jack searches the assailant's belongings, Ingrid's confusion escalates into a sense of betrayal as she realizes Jack's true nature.

Cabin in Sweden
4

Heart-Wrenching Decision

Faced with the risk of exposure, Jack makes a heart-breaking choice, shooting Ingrid in the back as she attempts to flee. This act seals her fate and marks a pivotal moment that haunts Jack for the rest of the story.

Cabin in Sweden
5

Fleeing to Rome

After the tragedy, Jack escapes to Rome to evade the ramifications of his actions. Once there, he contacts his handler, Pavel, who issues a grave warning and advises Jack to keep a low profile while advising him to seek refuge in Castelvecchio.

Rome
6

A New Identity

Jack, now living under the alias Edward, relocates to Abruzzo to start anew. He disguises himself as a photographer and takes on a new assignment constructing a sniper rifle for a mysterious client, Mathilde.

Abruzzo
7

Emotional Entanglement with Clara

In Abruzzo, Jack forms a complex relationship with Clara, who also offers her services as a prostitute. Their bond deepens, providing Jack with a sense of connection amidst his otherwise solitary, dark life.

Abruzzo
8

Craftsmanship in the Shadows

As Jack immerses himself in his work, he showcases his exceptional craftsmanship while constructing the custom sniper rifle. Each piece is meticulously crafted, reflecting Jack's expertise and the darker side of his talents.

Abruzzo
9

Confronting Past Assassins

Despite his attempts to start anew, Jack senses he is being tracked and ultimately confronts another assassin sent from Sweden. This encounter forces Jack to confront his past and reinforces the dangers that linger around him.

Abruzzo
10

Reflection and Regret

Haunted by nightmares and his previous actions, Jack engages in a profound conversation with Father Benedetto. The priest's words resonate with Jack, reflecting on his empty existence and the absence of love in his life.

Abruzzo
11

Paranoia and Tension

As Jack grapples with his feelings for Clara, his paranoia escalates when he discovers a gun hidden in her bag. This moment amplifies his sense of unease and forces him to confront the reality of his dangerous life.

Abruzzo
12

Escape with Clara

Amidst rising conflicts with Mathilde, Jack finds a glimmer of hope in a potential escape with Clara. Their love blossoms, offering Jack a chance to break free from his violent past and embark on a new beginning.

13

Modifying the Weapon

In a final act of defiance against his fate, Jack modifies a weapon intended for Mathilde. This decision sets the stage for a tense confrontation that could cost him everything.

14

As Assassination Attempts Begin

In a whirlwind of chaos, Jack narrowly escapes an assassination attempt orchestrated by Mathilde. The danger escalates when Clara seeks him out in a crowded area, adding to the already perilous circumstances surrounding Jack.

15

Tragic Climax at the Riverside

In a gripping finale, Jack realizes he has been shot while rushing to meet Clara at a picturesque riverside spot. As he struggles to reach her, a beautiful butterfly appears, symbolizing the transient nature of life and love amid the encroaching darkness.

Riverside

Last Updated: November 03, 2024 at 14:14

Similar Movies to The American
Discover movies like The American that share similar genres, themes, and storytelling elements. Whether you’re drawn to the atmosphere, character arcs, or plot structure, these curated recommendations will help you explore more films you’ll love.