The Rocketeer

The Rocketeer

Year: 1991

Runtime: 108 min

Language: Dutch

Director: Joe Johnston

ActionAdventureSci-FiComedyFamily

When a high-stakes jetpack falls into his hands, daredevil pilot Cliff Secord is catapulted into a thrilling quest of espionage and heroism. Teaming up with his actress girlfriend, he takes on a cast of cunning foes, including a Hollywood starlet hiding a sinister double life. Can they outwit the villains and stop their diabolical plan to dominate the globe?

Warning: spoilers below!

Haven’t seen The Rocketeer 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!

Timeline – The Rocketeer (1991)
Trace every key event in The Rocketeer (1991) 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

Preparation for the Air Show

In Los Angeles in 1938, pilot Cliff Secord and his mechanic Peevy discuss their ambitions for showcasing the newly built aircraft, the GeeBee, at an upcoming national air show. Their excitement is palpable as they prepare for what they hope will be a life-changing event.

1938 Los Angeles
2

Test Flight and Chaos Begins

Cliff confidently takes off for a test flight, placing a piece of Beeman's chewing gum on the tail as a good luck charm. However, unbeknownst to him, a fierce gunfight erupts below between gangsters and FBI agents, spiraling into chaos that soon impacts Cliff's flight.

1938 Los Angeles
3

The Shootout

As Cliff soars above, one of the gangsters mistakes him for law enforcement and shoots at his plane. The situation escalates with gangsters fleeing to the runway, causing Cliff to struggle for control of the GeeBee amidst this unforeseen crossfire.

1938 Los Angeles
4

The Crash Landing

Following the collision with a fleeing car, the GeeBee crash-lands in a dramatic scene full of fire and chaos. Despite the wreckage, Cliff's instincts compel him to return to the burning wreck to retrieve a treasured photo of his girlfriend before a massive explosion ensues.

1938 Los Angeles
5

FBI Blame Cliff

In the aftermath of the crash, the FBI mistakenly places the blame on Cliff for the catastrophic events. Their inability to find any substantial evidence other than an old vacuum cleaner leads to disappointment from aviation magnate Howard Hughes.

1938 Los Angeles
6

Humiliation at the Airfield

Faced with financial troubles, Cliff and Peevy confront an irate airfield owner, Bigelow. They are coerced into performing humiliating clown acts to pay off their debts, highlighting the desperate measures they must take amidst their misfortunes.

1938 Airfield in Los Angeles
7

Discovery of the Rocket Pack

While preparing for their clown show, Cliff discovers a hidden package inside the biplane they are to use. Opening it reveals a mysterious rocket pack, igniting Cliff's excitement for potential profit, despite Peevy's reservations about its origins.

1938 Airfield in Los Angeles
8

Gangster Threats

Meanwhile, gangster leader Eddie Valentine pressures Neville Sinclair for results, as Sinclair has his eyes set on recovering the stolen rocket pack. Tensions begin to rise as Sinclair's sinister motives come to the forefront, intertwining with Cliff's life.

1938 Los Angeles
9

Cliff and Jenny's Relationship

Cliff's romantic life flourishes as he dates Jenny Blake, an aspiring actress. Their relationship takes a turn when Cliff lies to Jenny about his tumultuous test flight, leading to conflict when she discovers the truth, threatening their budding romance.

1938 Los Angeles
10

Plunge into Espionage

As the chaos escalates, Cliff becomes entangled in a world of espionage and crime. His journey brings daring rescues and unexpected betrayals, while he navigates the pressures of both love and their quest for survival.

1938
11

Showdown on the Zeppelin

The climax unfolds atop a zeppelin, setting the stage for an explosive showdown where Cliff must confront Sinclair and the gangsters. Amidst the peril of war and the threat to their lives, heroism becomes a beacon of hope for him and Jenny.

Zeppelin
12

Dramatic Escape

In a nail-biting finale, Cliff and Jenny execute a dramatic escape from the zeppelin. Their survival is not only a testament to their love but also solidifies their resolve for a shared future filled with adventures and newfound plans for the rocket pack.

Zeppelin
13

A Bright Future Ahead

The aftermath of the harrowing experience leaves Cliff and Jenny optimistic about their future. The pair embrace their newly cemented bond as they ponder the possibilities of their adventures with the rocket pack now secured.

Los Angeles

Last Updated: November 02, 2024 at 12:55

Similar Movies to The Rocketeer
Discover movies like The Rocketeer 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.