The Falcon and the Snowman

The Falcon and the Snowman

Year: 1985

Runtime: 131 min

Language: English

Director: John Schlesinger

BiographyDramaThrillerCrime

A disillusioned CIA analyst, Christopher Boyce, shockingly begins selling classified information to the Soviet Union. He enlists the help of his close friend, Daulton Lee, and together they embark on a dangerous and increasingly reckless scheme. Their actions put lives and reputations at risk as the situation spirals beyond their control, leading them down a perilous path with potentially devastating consequences.

Warning: spoilers below!

Haven’t seen The Falcon and the Snowman 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 Falcon and the Snowman (1985)

Trace every key event in The Falcon and the Snowman (1985) 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

Christopher Boyce's Discontent

Christopher Boyce, once an avid falconer, begins to feel disillusioned with the government after learning of a troubling CIA operation. His father's past as an FBI agent also weighs heavily on his conscience, adding to his growing skepticism.

2

Discovery of Classified Information

While working at the secure 'Black Vault' facility, Boyce unintentionally uncovers a CIA plot to eliminate the Prime Minister of Australia. This shocking revelation deepens his dissatisfaction with the deceitful operations of the US government.

Black Vault facility
3

Leaking Secrets to the Soviets

Driven by a desire for truth and personal agency, Boyce makes the perilous decision to leak the sensitive information he found to Soviet agents. This risky move sets him on a path fraught with danger and betrayal.

4

Andrew Daulton Lee's Involvement

Andrew Daulton Lee, Boyce’s childhood friend and a minor player in the drug scene, becomes entwined in Boyce’s espionage activities. Seeking a way out of his struggles with addiction and financial despair, he sees an opportunity for profit through Boyce's leaks.

5

Lee as Information Conduit

Lee takes on the role of a messenger, delivering classified information to Soviet agents in Mexico. His aspirations are fueled by dreams of escaping to Costa Rica, where he believes he can elude prosecution and start anew.

Mexico
6

Tensions Rise Between Friends

As both men delve deeper into espionage, the bond between Boyce and Lee starts to fray. Lee's increasing drug dependency and ambitions for a larger spy network create friction, drawing the attention of their handler, Alex.

7

Lee's Reckless Decision

Feeling the pressure from the Soviets, Lee makes a drastic move by throwing a note over the fence of the Soviet embassy in Mexico City. His impulsive action leads to his immediate arrest by Mexican authorities.

Mexico City
8

Evidence Found Against Lee

After Lee’s arrest, the authorities uncover evidence linking him to Boyce's espionage activities. They discover film rolls and a postcard that could implicate him in a murder investigation, further complicating his situation.

9

Harsh Interrogation Begins

Lee finds himself under intense interrogation as police try to connect him to a crime scene involving a dead police officer. This pressure exposes the fragility of his position and the mounting urgency of his predicament.

10

Realization of Lee's Dual Life

Under duress, Lee realizes that he has become a Soviet spy and must navigate treacherous waters to avoid deportation. He contemplates escape to Costa Rica but soon feels the weight of his limited options.

11

Confrontation with Law Enforcement

As Lee attempts to return to the US, he is confronted by law enforcement rather than receiving a warm welcome. His arrest marks a turning point in his fate, sealing his association with Boyce's treacherous undertakings.

US border
12

Boyce Releases Fawkes

In a poignant moment of reclaiming his sense of autonomy, Boyce releases his falcon, Fawkes, into the wild. This act symbolizes his desire to escape the entanglements of his current life and reconnect with his former self.

13

Final Showdown with Authorities

With law enforcement closing in, Boyce is encircled by US Marshals and FBI agents. The stakes rise dramatically, forcing him and Lee to confront the dire consequences of their actions and the inevitability of justice.

14

The Inescapable Force of Justice

In the chilling conclusion to their shared journey, both Boyce and Lee come to understand that despite their skills at evasion, justice is a relentless force that ultimately catches up with them. Their experiences become a stark reminder of the truth that no one can escape their fate forever.

Last Updated: November 21, 2024 at 11:16

Unlock the Full Story of The Falcon and the Snowman

Don't stop at just watching — explore The Falcon and the Snowman 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 The Falcon and the Snowman is all about. Plus, discover what's next after the movie.

The Falcon and the Snowman Summary

Read a complete plot summary of The Falcon and the Snowman, 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.

The Falcon and the Snowman Summary

Characters, Settings & Themes in The Falcon and the Snowman

Discover the characters, locations, and core themes that shape The Falcon and the Snowman. Get insights into symbolic elements, setting significance, and deeper narrative meaning — ideal for thematic analysis and movie breakdowns.

Characters, Settings & Themes in The Falcon and the Snowman

More About The Falcon and the Snowman

Visit What's After the Movie to explore more about The Falcon and the Snowman: 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 The Falcon and the Snowman

Similar Movies to The Falcon and the Snowman

Discover movies like The Falcon and the Snowman 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.