The Hard Word

The Hard Word

Year: 2003

Runtime: 102 min

Language: English

Director: Scott Roberts

DramaThrillerCrime

Three brothers, Dale, Mal, and Shane Twentyman, are skilled armed robbers awaiting release from prison. Their close family bond and expertise are challenged when they face a dangerous situation where the stakes are incredibly high. They operate with a strict code: no innocent lives should be harmed, but the pressure mounts as they navigate a world of crime and loyalty.

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Timeline – The Hard Word (2003)

Trace every key event in The Hard Word (2003) 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

Release from Prison

Dale, Mal, and Shane prepare for their release on bail, marking a significant moment in their lives. After enduring time behind bars, the anticipation of freedom and new possibilities begins to stir among the brothers.

2

Meeting the Twentyman Brothers

The Twentyman brothers reunite outside the prison, showcasing their strong family bond and grim determination. They express their commitment to their craft of armed robbery, emphasizing their unspoken rule of avoiding harm.

3

Frank Malone’s Role

Frank Malone, their unscrupulous lawyer, orchestrates their release and plays a crucial role in facilitating their criminal enterprise. Despite his flashy arrogance, it becomes apparent that his motivations are self-serving and manipulative.

4

Frank’s Betrayal

Frank’s affair with Dale’s wife, Carol, is revealed, introducing tension into the narrative. His attraction to her blinds him to her intelligence, setting the stage for a conflict that will profoundly affect the brothers.

5

Planning the Heist

The brothers, now out on bail, confront the reality of a new robbery, which Frank insists must be their last. They wrestle with their growing unease about the risks involved and Frank’s true intentions as they prepare for a multi-million dollar heist.

6

The Job in Melbourne

Frank reveals the location for the heist in Melbourne, bringing in local criminals against the brothers' wishes. The tension mounts as the brothers must decide whether to proceed with a plan that feels increasingly compromised.

Melbourne
7

Dale’s Doubts

Dale’s suspicions regarding Frank's ulterior motives grow stronger, especially after suffering from food poisoning. His physical weakness leads to heightened anxiety about the impending robbery and the loyalty of those around him.

8

Execution of the Heist

The brothers move forward with the ambitious robbery, despite their lingering misgivings. The heist unfolds with tension and uncertainty, as they face unforeseen obstacles and pressures from the other criminals involved.

Melbourne
9

The Heist Goes Wrong

Chaos erupts during the heist, leading to panic and confusion among the brothers and their accomplices. In the midst of the ensuing chaos, they realize the extent of Frank's treachery and the dangerous situation they find themselves in.

Melbourne
10

Desperate Escape

With the heist gone awry, the brothers make a harrowing escape from the chaos that surrounds them. They hijack a car, aiming to flee Melbourne as the situation deteriorates rapidly and the stakes escalate.

Melbourne
11

On the Road to Sydney

As they drive towards Sydney, the brothers reflect on their choices and the implications of their actions. They grapple with the reality of their newfound wealth and the danger that still looms, knowing Frank and Carol will pursue them.

12

Consequences of Crime

The escape offers the brothers a brief moment of relief, but underlying tensions and fears regarding Frank’s retribution remain. They are acutely aware that despite their financial gain, the real battle is just beginning.

13

Final Showdown Approaches

The brothers realize the inevitable confrontation with both Frank and Carol is on the horizon. As they make their way back home, their loyalty and trust in each other will be tested as they prepare for the impending conflict.

Last Updated: May 21, 2025 at 07:30

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The Hard Word Summary

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The Hard Word Summary

Characters, Settings & Themes in The Hard Word

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Characters, Settings & Themes in The Hard Word

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The Hard Word Spoiler-Free Summary

More About The Hard Word

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