The Last Thing He Wanted

Elena McMahon starts her work as a journalist in Central America, stationed in El Salvador during its civil war. She is determined to uncover the truth behind the escalating violence and the mysterious influx of weapons into the region.

As violence surges, Elena grows increasingly perplexed about the motive behind the civil war. Her inquiries lead her to probe into who is truly profiting from the chaos, stirring her curiosity even further.

A few years later, when Elena attempts to revive her bureau’s operations, her editor reveals alarming news about Congress's pressure to downplay coverage of Central American issues. This is particularly troubling for Elena after her probing questions regarding the CIA's activities in Nicaragua.

Despite her dedication, Elena is reassigned to cover Ronald Reagan's re-election campaign in 1984. Disheartened yet determined, she reluctantly accepts this new role that draws her away from her investigative work in Central America.

In an effort to reconnect with her estranged father, Dick McMahon, Elena finds herself facing painful truths. Her father is now deeply embroiled in illegal activities and struggling with dementia, complicating their relationship further.

On the campaign trail, Elena cleverly arranges a meeting with Secretary of State George Shultz. Here, she confronts him about U.S. involvement in Nicaragua and the troubling arms trade that she has uncovered.

In her quest for answers, Elena travels to Houston to meet General Gus Sharp. He provides crucial information about the origins of American shell casings found in El Salvador, further supporting her allegations against the U.S. administration.

Despite her compelling findings, Elena's editor refuses to publish her work on U.S. support for Nicaraguan rebel forces. Feeling powerless and frustrated, Elena grapples with the limitations of journalism in politically sensitive matters.

After her father's hospitalization, Elena rushes to Florida to care for him. However, she becomes entangled in the dangerous world of arms trafficking in an attempt to help her father out of financial trouble.

Her involvement in arms trafficking escalates during her first delivery in Costa Rica, where she encounters a perilous confrontation. Resourceful and brave, Elena manages to turn the situation around and escape unharmed.

While navigating the complexities of American bureaucracy at the embassy, Elena receives the devastating news of her father's passing. She struggles to come to terms with her loss amid the chaos of her investigative pursuits.

After her father's death, Elena becomes entwined with Treat Morrison, who has a hidden agenda. Through a night of intimacy, they unveil deeper truths regarding Elena's father and her motivations, complicating her quest for justice.

Just when Elena begins to find hope, she faces a shocking betrayal that turns her life upside down. This twist forces her to confront the dangers of the realities she has tried to expose.

Following the betrayal, unexpected sources reveal the truth behind the Iran-Contra Affair. Elena's friend Alma Guerrero ensures that her fight for the truth regarding arms trading does not die with her.

Ultimately, the film portrays Elena's harrowing journey from an inquisitive journalist to a pawn in a dangerous geopolitical game. It sheds light on her internal struggles regarding survival, ethical dilemmas, and the personal costs of her pursuit for the truth.