The Peacemaker

The Peacemaker

Year: 1997

Runtime: 124 min

Language: English

Director: Mimi Leder

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This gripping documentary follows Irish peacemaker Padraig O'Malley as he works to resolve conflicts across the globe. Over five years and spanning three continents, the film chronicles his remarkable journey, highlighting his talent for building trust and fostering understanding between warring factions. It offers a revealing look at the challenges and triumphs of diplomacy in war-torn regions, showcasing the power of negotiation and the importance of finding common ground.

Warning: spoilers below!

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Timeline – The Peacemaker (1997)

Trace every key event in The Peacemaker (1997) 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

Baptism Murder

At a church in Pale, Bosnia, the Bosnian Finance Minister, a moderate advocating for peace, is assassinated during an Eastern Orthodox baptism. This event sets a somber tone and highlights the tension in the ongoing Yugoslav Wars.

Pale, Bosnia
2

Nuclear Warheads Loaded

In Kartaly, Russia, ten nuclear warheads from a SS-18 Satan ICBM are loaded onto a train destined for dismantlement. This action raises concerns about the control and security of nuclear materials amidst the chaotic political climate.

Kartaly, Russia
3

Train Hijacking

General Kodoroff, along with a rogue Spetznaz unit, hijacks the train transporting the nuclear warheads by executing the soldiers onboard. The unit jumps onto the train from a parallel one, illustrating the audacity and efficiency of their operation.

4

Collision Course Set

Kodoroff activates a timer on one of the warheads and sets the train on a collision course with a passenger train. He takes cover in a tunnel, anticipating the catastrophic explosion that will ensue.

Tunnel near Kartaly
5

Devastating Explosion

The two trains collide, resulting in a massive explosion caused by the detonated warhead. Thousands of civilians perish, delaying investigations into the incident while raising international alarm over the nature of the blast.

6

Government Investigation

The explosion catches the attention of the U.S. government, prompting Dr. Julia Kelly to lead an investigation into the possibility of Chechen terrorist involvement. She discovers evidence indicating the blast was a deliberate act.

Washington, D.C.
7

Hijacked Warheads

Julia and military intelligence officer Thomas Devoe reveal that the nuclear warheads are missing. They uncover details indicating the hijacking was executed to profit from the warheads on the black market, valued at $200 million each.

8

Chase in Vienna

While investigating a Russian trucking company believed to be involved with the nuclear smuggling, Devoe and Kelly are chased after Devoe tortures a contact for information. The encounter results in Vertikoff’s death amidst their frantic escape.

Vienna, Austria
9

Race Against Time

As the team of U.S. operatives track the warheads, they discover that one is mobile and en route to Iran. Julia realizes the catastrophic potential it holds and races to prevent further disaster.

Dagestan
10

Assault on Kodoroff

U.S. troops attempt to stop Kodoroff's transport of the nuclear warheads. During the firefight, Kodoroff is killed, but the team learns one warhead has already been sent off with a mysterious operative before the interception.

Azerbaijan
11

UN Target Identified

Investigations lead to Dusan Gavric, who seeks vengeance after the loss of his family in Bosnia. Julia deduces that he plans to bomb the UN headquarters in New York City, bringing urgency to their mission.

New York City, NY
12

Gavric's Escape

Despite Julia's efforts to ground all flights, Gavric escapes using a diplomatic passport, successfully smuggling the nuclear bomb. This oversight highlights the risks associated with diplomatic immunity.

New York City, NY
13

Confrontation at the School

After tracking Gavric down, Devoe and Kelly confront him inside a parochial school. In a tragic turn, Gavric takes his own life as he realizes he might not succeed in his deadly mission.

Parochial School
14

Disarming the Bomb

With mere seconds left, Kelly manages to disarm the nuclear bomb, preventing a disaster that could have claimed hundreds of thousands of lives. The explosion still causes significant destruction without resulting in a nuclear catastrophe.

New York City, NY
15

A New Beginning

In the aftermath of averting disaster, Julia is seen swimming laps, reflecting on the harrowing events. Devoe approaches her with an invitation for a drink, suggesting hope and potential for a new beginning.

Last Updated: January 14, 2025 at 19:25

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The Peacemaker Summary

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Characters, Settings & Themes in The Peacemaker

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Characters, Settings & Themes in The Peacemaker

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