Year: 1999
Runtime: 89 min
Language: English
Director: Steven Soderbergh
A hardened ex-con travels to Los Angeles seeking retribution for his daughter's death. Determined to uncover the truth, he confronts a ruthless criminal named Valentine and a dangerous network of individuals involved in her tragic demise. Navigating the city's dark underbelly, he relentlessly pursues justice, facing perilous encounters and escalating violence along the way.
Warning: spoilers below!
Haven’t seen The Limey 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!
Read the complete plot breakdown of The Limey (1999), including all key story events, major twists, and the ending explained in detail. Discover what really happened—and what it all means.
Wilson, portrayed by Terence Stamp, begins his journey with an urgent plea to a black screen: “Tell me. Tell me. Tell me about Jenny.” This stark introduction unveils a man consumed by determination and grief as the iconic tune “The Seeker” by Who sets the tone. We first see him navigating from the airport to a hotel room, his attention diverted to a newspaper article detailing a woman’s tragic demise, accompanied by a note addressed to an “Ed Roel” in California.
Upon locating Ed Roel, played by Luis Guzman, Wilson dives into the purpose of his visit. Foregoing pleasantries, he inquires directly whether Ed was involved in his daughter’s death. Ed, puzzled, points out he never claimed anyone murdered her; he merely provided the clipping. Wilson learns that his daughter’s tragic accident left her with a broken neck, saving her from the flames of the crash, which Ed rationalizes could happen to anyone. Wilson, however, remains resolute in his belief that “No. Not my girl. Self control she had. It was a point of pride.” He presses Ed for details about Jenny’s associations, particularly a man named Terry Valentine, but Ed claims ignorance.
As the story unfolds, we see Wilson purchasing a firearm from local youths, cutting back through time as he reflects on his daughter. He learns from Ed that Jenny was deeply involved with Terry, a “money guy” now living in a mansion. Ed recalls driving Jenny around, recalling how she braved a dangerous neighborhood seeking out Terry, refusing typical avenues in favor of “some bad place” where men were unloading trucks.
Wilson’s investigation leads him to Terry’s lavish estate, where he assiduously surveys and remembers Jenny’s childhood. During a party hosted by Terry, now played by Peter Fonda, Wilson’s presence creates tension, prompting him to confront Ed about his intentions. Despite being urged to keep a low profile, the confrontation escalates as Wilson showcases fits of rage, leading to violent exchanges that capture the chaotic nightlife and shady dealings surrounding Terry.
With each revelation, Ed, Elaine (a friend of Jenny’s played by Lesley Ann Warren), and the DEA involve themselves in a web of betrayal and danger, culminating in a dramatic confrontation at Terry’s hideout where loyalties are tested, and the true nature of Jenny’s demise is uncovered. Amidst the mayhem, Wilson reflects on his memories of Jenny while fighting against the shadowy forces that conspired against her.
In a climactic showdown on the rocky beach, Wilson corners Terry, who finally admits to the violent truth of Jenny’s death, a confrontation that turns personal as Wilson snarls the haunting lines “Tell me about Jenny.” Ultimately, Wilson is left alone with his thoughts of revenge and loss as he boards a plane once more, contemplating freedom and love intertwined with haunting memories of his daughter, as Jenny’s mother narrates a tender remembrance of their past.
Last Updated: October 28, 2024 at 18:03
Don't stop at just watching — explore The Limey 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 Limey is all about. Plus, discover what's next after the movie.
Track the full timeline of The Limey with every major event arranged chronologically. Perfect for decoding non-linear storytelling, flashbacks, or parallel narratives with a clear scene-by-scene breakdown.
Discover movies like The Limey 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.
The Limey (1999) Scene-by-Scene Movie Timeline
The Limey (1999) Movie Characters, Themes & Settings
Movies Like The Limey – Similar Titles You’ll Enjoy
The Client (1994) Film Overview & Timeline
Limbo (2023) Spoiler-Packed Plot Recap
L.A. Confidential (1997) Plot Summary & Ending Explained
Lucky Day (2019) Complete Plot Breakdown
Limbo (2021) Film Overview & Timeline
Illegal Tender (2007) Full Movie Breakdown
Killing Them Softly (2012) Ending Explained & Film Insights
Message from the King (2017) Story Summary & Characters
Law Abiding Citizen (2009) Spoiler-Packed Plot Recap
The Outsider (2014) Spoiler-Packed Plot Recap
The Firm (1993) Movie Recap & Themes
Rising Sun (1993) Plot Summary & Ending Explained
The Killers (1964) Full Summary & Key Details
The Foreigner (2017) Spoiler-Packed Plot Recap
Violet & Daisy (2013) Ending Explained & Film Insights