The Highwaymen

The Highwaymen

Year: 2019

Runtime: 132 min

Language: English

Director: John Lee Hancock

BiographyDramaMysteryThrillerCrime

In a thrilling tale of crime and justice, two legendary detectives, played by Kevin Costner and Woody Harrelson, bring down notorious outlaws Bonnie and Clyde. As the FBI's high-tech efforts fail to catch the fugitives, these veteran Texas Rangers must rely on their instincts and rugged determination to outsmart the outlaws and restore law and order.

Warning: spoilers below!

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Timeline – The Highwaymen (2019)
Trace every key event in The Highwaymen (2019) 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

Bonnie and Clyde's Escape

In 1934, Bonnie and Clyde, notorious robbers, orchestrate a daring escape from Eastham Prison Farm in Texas. This bold move marks the beginning of their violent journey, as they evade capture after two long years on the run.

1934 Eastham Prison Farm, Texas
2

Recruitment of Frank Hamer

Following the escape, Texas Department of Corrections Chief Lee Simmons convinces Governor 'Ma' Ferguson to recruit Frank Hamer, a former Texas Ranger, to hunt down Bonnie and Clyde. Hamer's recruitment signifies a shift in the approach to apprehending the infamous couple.

Texas
3

Initial Doubts and Decisions

Governor Ferguson expresses doubts about Hamer's capabilities, highlighting the tension between old and modern law enforcement methods. Ultimately, she allows Simmons to proceed with the hunt, setting Hamer on a path filled with moral dilemmas.

Texas
4

The Chilling Shootout

As Hamer grapples with his decision, reports of a violent shootout in Missouri add urgency to his commitment. This situation not only reflects the dangers of Bonnie and Clyde but also reignites Hamer's determination to confront them.

Missouri
5

Hamer and Gault Join Forces

Hamer's former partner, Maney Gault, joins him in the pursuit, spurred by his own frustrations with unemployment. Together, they begin to delve deeper into the manhunt, fueled by a shared commitment to bring the criminals to justice.

6

FBI's Involvement

The FBI is already tracking Bonnie and Clyde's families through wiretaps, adding a layer of complexity to the investigation. Hamer and Gault gain access to these files, unearthing vital leads on the criminals' potential whereabouts.

7

Chase to Dallas

Following a suspect act of vandalism at Bonnie's mother's house, Hamer and Gault chase down a fleeing boy. Although advised by the FBI to stay away, their hunch leads them to Dallas, where they hope to catch the infamous couple.

Dallas
8

Discovery of Brutality

The discovery of a double police homicide linked to Bonnie and Clyde reveals the brutal nature of their crime spree. Hamer and Gault, inspecting the scene, confront the grim reality of their adversaries and the implications of their actions.

Grapevine
9

Learning of the Migrant Camp

Hamer and Gault's relentless chase leads them to Oklahoma, where they receive tips about Bonnie and Clyde heading towards a migrant camp. This discovery keeps them one step closer to tracking the couple down, heightening the tension of their pursuit.

Oklahoma
10

Closer Encounter in Coffeyville

In Coffeyville, Kansas, Hamer and Gault finally catch a glimpse of Bonnie and Clyde amidst a cheering crowd. Though the duo escapes their immediate grasp, the encounter intensifies their resolve to recapture the dangerous criminals.

Coffeyville, Kansas
11

A Father's Plea

Hamer meets Clyde's father, who expresses a poignant request to end his son's life, knowing that Clyde would never surrender. This moment weighs heavily on Hamer as he considers the human cost of his pursuits.

12

The Trap is Set

With a plan in motion, Hamer seeks to lure Bonnie and Clyde into a trap by furloughing a prisoner associated with their gang. This strategic move reflects the desperation and high stakes of the hunt for the notorious couple.

13

The Informant's Murder

The investigation takes a dark turn when Hamer and Gault find the murdered body of their informant, Wade McNabb. The profound implications of this loss reinforce their commitment to facing Bonnie and Clyde with renewed urgency.

14

Final Showdown

With the help of local sheriffs, the posse prepares an ambush using Ivy Methvin's broken-down vehicle as bait. Bonnie and Clyde arrive to help, but Hamer swiftly commands them to surrender before chaos erupts.

Louisiana
15

The Aftermath

The aftermath reveals Bonnie and Clyde's bullet-riddled car and lifeless bodies being paraded through Arcadia, Louisiana. Hamer and Gault reflect on the consequences of their actions, as thousands gather to pay their respects.

Arcadia, Louisiana

Last Updated: November 15, 2024 at 16:07

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