The Black Dahlia

The Black Dahlia

Year: 2006

Runtime: 121 min

Language: English

Director: Brian De Palma

DramaHistoryMysteryThrillerRomanceCrime

In 1940s Los Angeles, two detectives investigate the disturbing murder of a rising Hollywood starlet. As they pursue leads, one detective's obsession with the case strains his relationship with his wife. The other detective becomes involved with an enigmatic woman who has a connection to the victim, and their burgeoning romance is complicated by her mysterious history and the potential for danger surrounding the investigation.

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Timeline – The Black Dahlia (2006)

Trace every key event in The Black Dahlia (2006) 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

Introduction of Bucky and Lee

LAPD detectives Dwight 'Bucky' Bleichert and Lee Blanchard are partnered following a significant boxing match that aimed to enhance the reputation of their department. This partnership marks the beginning of a complicated relationship that intertwines their personal and professional lives.

Los Angeles, California
2

Bucky Meets Kay Lake

During their partnership, Lee introduces Bucky to his girlfriend, Kay Lake, forming a tightly knit trio. Bucky's attraction to Kay creates underlying tension, especially when Kay reveals her lack of intimacy with Lee, leading her to make advances toward Bucky.

3

Kay's Confession

Kay shocks Bucky by revealing the initials 'BD' branded on her, which are linked to Bobby DeWitt, a notorious gangster. This information complicates Bucky's feelings for Kay and stirs deeper insights into the world of crime that they are entangled in.

4

Discovery of Elizabeth Short's Body

On January 15, 1947, the dismembered body of Elizabeth Short, known as 'The Black Dahlia,' is discovered, captivating the detectives. This gruesome case becomes an obsession for Bucky and Lee, pushing them further into the underbelly of Los Angeles's criminal activities.

January 15, 1947 Los Angeles, California
5

Investigation of Elizabeth's Aspirations

Bucky learns that Elizabeth aspired to be an actress and was involved in the underground film scene, leading him to visit a lesbian nightclub. There, he meets Madeleine Linscott, who looks strikingly similar to Elizabeth and has her own connections to the deceased.

Lesbian Nightclub, Los Angeles
6

Relationship with Madeleine Linscott

Madeleine requests that Bucky keep her name out of the media in exchange for favors, revealing a complex web of manipulation. This introduces Bucky to Madeleine's affluent family, deepening the mysteries surrounding Elizabeth’s life and death.

7

Lee's Turmoil

As Lee becomes increasingly fixated on the case, his behavior turns volatile and abusive towards Kay. The strain of their relationship escalates, leading to confrontations and complications in their mutual feelings and loyalties.

8

Lee's Murder

In a tragic turn of events, Bucky witnesses Lee's brutal murder during an armed confrontation involving DeWitt's associates. This harrowing event leaves Bucky shattered, intensifying his quest for justice and revenge.

Los Angeles, California
9

Bucky and Kay's Moment

In the wake of Lee's death, Bucky and Kay share a moment of grief that culminates in a transient passion. This event marks a significant turning point in their relationship, intertwining their fates in the investigation.

Kay's Home
10

Kay's Confession about DeWitt

Bucky discovers hidden cash in Kay's bathroom and learns about her past with DeWitt. Kay explains the cycle of abuse she suffered, revealing Lee's heroism in bringing DeWitt to justice but complicating Bucky's understanding of his partner.

11

Unraveling the Clues

Bucky connects the dots between the props from an old film and evidence surrounding Elizabeth's murder. His investigation leads him to realize the intricate connections between Hollywood’s glamour and its dark underbelly.

Hollywoodland Sign
12

Confrontation with Madeleine's Family

Bucky confronts Madeleine and her parents, leading to devastating revelations about Elizabeth's murder. Ramona, Madeleine's mother, ultimately confesses to the crime, revealing a twisted familial connection to Elizabeth.

13

Ramona's Tragic End

Overcome with guilt and madness, Ramona takes her own life after confessing to Elizabeth's murder. This tragic act leaves Bucky in a state of shock, reeling from the depth of the family's involvement.

14

Bucky's Reckoning

After reflecting on Lee's past insights, Bucky discovers deeper layers of manipulation involving Lee and Madeleine. This leads him to a rundown motel where he confronts Madeleine about her role in the murders.

Rundown Motel
15

Bucky's Dark Decision

In a climactic confrontation, Bucky and Madeleine face their entwined fates, leading Bucky to a dark decision as he ends her life. Seeking solace afterward, Bucky's journey continues down a perilous path as he visits Kay, forever altering their lives.

Kay's Home

Last Updated: November 16, 2024 at 14:05

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The Black Dahlia Summary

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Characters, Settings & Themes in The Black Dahlia

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Characters, Settings & Themes in The Black Dahlia

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