The Mule

The Mule

Year: 2018

Runtime: 116 min

Language: English

DramaMysteryThrillerCrime

Facing financial ruin, Earl Stone becomes an unwitting drug courier for a Mexican cartel, seeking a way out of his desperate situation. As he transports increasing amounts of drugs, Earl’s conscience is challenged by the risks involved, and he finds himself caught between the cartel’s dangerous enforcers and the looming threat of law enforcement. He must confront his past decisions as his newfound prosperity is overshadowed by the consequences of his actions.

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Timeline – The Mule (2018)

Trace every key event in The Mule (2018) 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

Earl Wins Award

Earl Stone, an elderly daylily grower, receives yet another award for his exquisite flowers, showing off his dedication and passion for gardening. This moment reflects his pride and serves as a juxtaposition to his strained family relationships.

2

Iris Prepares for Wedding

Iris, Earl's daughter, is busy preparing for her second wedding, highlighting her hope for a brighter future. Despite the celebration, the tension between her and Earl is palpable as she recalls his disappointing past.

3

Earl Disappoints Family Again

Earl fails to show up for Ginny's birthday celebration, disappointing both his daughter Iris and granddaughter Ginny once more. This reinforces his longstanding pattern of letting down his family and the strains in their relationships.

4

Earl's Financial Trouble

Ten years later, Earl's flower business has gone bankrupt, leading to foreclosure on his home. This financial desperation drives him to seek out alternative, risky employment opportunities.

Ten years later
5

Business Card Opportunity

At Ginny's birthday party, one of her friends hands Earl a business card for a well-paying driving job that requires no questions asked. Earl, recognizing his need for cash, decides to pursue this dubious opportunity.

Ginny's birthday party
6

First Drug Run

Earl arrives at a garage where he meets intimidating figures who stuff a duffel bag into his truck and give him a cell phone for communication. Despite the warning to avoid looking in the bag, he soon discovers hidden cash upon his return.

Garage
7

DEA's New Investigation

DEA agent Colin Bates and his partner begin investigating drug trafficking networks, unaware of Earl's involvement. Their mission is to dismantle the organized crime, putting Earl's new career at risk.

8

Earns Respect of Cartel

Through his successful deliveries, Earl earns respect from the Mexican cartel, even impressing Laton, the boss, with his performance as a nonagenarian drug mule. He becomes known as 'El Tata,' a moniker that emphasizes his surprising effectiveness.

9

VFW Hall Celebration

At the reopening of the VA, Earl is unexpectedly honored for his contributions, funding Ginny's education and receiving accolades. Although some family members remain distant, this marks a moment of redemption.

Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) hall
10

Cautionary Encounter

While out, Earl inadvertently encounters Agent Bates at a local coffee shop. Despite the risks, he imparts a piece of life advice to Bates, cautioning him against making the same mistakes he has.

Coffee Shop
11

Invited to Mexico

Earl receives an invitation to a lavish party in Mexico, celebrating his status in the cartel. However, the gathering takes a dark turn when violence erupts, highlighting the deadly stakes in the drug trade.

Mexico
12

Mary's Hospice Care

As Earl’s family dynamics shift, Mary is brought home for hospice care, prompting Earl to reflect on his life choices. He continues with the cartel's deliveries as he grapples with his family's struggles.

13

Earl Goes Missing

Earl vanishes off the radar, leaving both DEA and cartel members in disarray. This disappearance adds to the tension as his actions have complex repercussions.

14

Family Reunion

Iris begins to reconcile with Earl as he stays by Mary’s side until her passing. After attending her funeral, he is invited to Thanksgiving, hinting at a possible mending of familial ties.

Funeral
15

Earl's Arrest

Eventually, Bates locates Earl and arrests him, marking a turning point in Earl's story. In court, Earl takes control of his narrative, pleading guilty while receiving emotional farewells from his family.

Court
16

Nurturing Daylilies in Prison

The film concludes with Earl finding solace in nurturing daylilies within the prison garden, symbolizing resilience and a connection to his past. This act represents his enduring spirit amidst struggles.

Prison

Last Updated: November 02, 2024 at 13:08

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The Mule Summary

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The Mule Summary

Characters, Settings & Themes in The Mule

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Characters, Settings & Themes in The Mule

The Mule Ending Explained

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The Mule Ending Explained

More About The Mule

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