The January Man

The January Man

Year: 1989

Runtime: 97 min

Language: English

Director: Pat O'Connor

ActionMysteryThrillerComedyCrime

In this gritty thrill ride, ex-cop Nick Starkey is coaxed out of retirement by his brother Frank to track down a ruthless serial killer terrorizing New York City. As Nick navigates the treacherous landscape, he finds himself torn between love and duty, all while challenging the authorities' conventional wisdom and risking everything to uncover the truth.

Warning: spoilers below!

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Timeline – The January Man (1989)
Trace every key event in The January Man (1989) 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

Midnight on New Year's Eve

As the clock strikes midnight, Manhattan socialite Alison Hawkins is at home, blissfully unaware of the danger that lurks in the shadows. This marks the beginning of a series of mysterious murders that will go unanswered for nearly a year.

Midnight, New Year's Eve Manhattan
2

Rising Tension in City Hall

The Mayor becomes increasingly frustrated with the lack of progress in solving the murders as months pass. In a bid to regain control of the situation, he reaches out to NYPD Commissioner Frank Starkey for assistance, prompting the need for more decisive action.

City Hall
3

Nick Starkey's Return

Commissioner Starkey involves his estranged brother, Nick Starkey, known for his exceptional intellect and problem-solving skills. However, Nick's return is hindered by the scandal that forced his resignation two years prior, complicating family dynamics.

NYPD Headquarters
4

An Uncomfortable Dinner

After convincing Nick to rejoin the investigation, Frank insists on a dinner together, where tensions arise between Nick and Christine, Frank's wife and Nick's ex-girlfriend. During dinner, unresolved emotions surface, particularly regarding their past and the hints of Frank's involvement in Nick's downfall.

Frank's home
5

Press Conference Announcement

Nick's reinstatement to the force is publicly announced, creating a buzz in the media and city. Despite the public support, there's an underlying tension between him and Christine that cannot be ignored.

Press Conference Venue
6

First Lead from Bernadette

Nick returns to duty the next day and discovers a significant lead connecting him to Bernadette, the mayor's daughter and Alison's friend. Bernadette, frightened and anxious, seeks refuge in her apartment as Nick tries to understand the killer's motives.

Bernadette's Apartment
7

Pattern in Murders

As Nick investigates deeper, he uncovers a disturbing pattern in the murders tied to prime numbers. This insight fuels his need to predict the timing of the next crime, leading him to believe he has a grasp on the killer's modus operandi.

8

Murder Predicts a Shift

Nick's expectation of a murder on the fifth of the month is thrown into chaos when a woman is killed a day earlier. This unexpected twist calls into question the killer's pattern and intensifies Nick's resolve to decipher their plan.

9

Discovery of Virgo

As Nick and his partner Ed analyze the crime scenes on a map, they stumble upon a chilling connection: the victims' apartments form a representation of the constellation Virgo. This revelation leads them to suspect there is more than randomness behind the murders.

Manhattan Map
10

Using Bernadette as Bait

Nick formulates a daring plan to use Bernadette as bait to lure the killer. With a protective neck guard in place, they prepare to catch the murderer in the act, escalating the tension as they vigilantly wait.

Outside Supply Closet Apartment
11

A Fierce Struggle

As the killer attempts to break into the apartment, Nick springs into action to save Bernadette. A fierce struggle ensues, showcasing Nick's determination and physical capability as he restrains the assailant and swiftly calls for police backup.

Supply Closet Apartment
12

Christine's Breakup

After the intense confrontation, Christine arrives with news of her breakup with Frank. This revelation strikes at the heart of Nick's feelings, marking a pivotal moment in their tangled past.

13

A New Beginning

In the aftermath, Nick's feelings evolve as he recognizes his desire to move forward with Bernadette rather than rekindle his relationship with Christine. This marks a significant change for Nick, as he chooses to embrace new possibilities and connections.

Last Updated: November 17, 2024 at 21:45

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