The Untouchables

The Untouchables

Year: 1987

Runtime: 119 min

Language: Spanish

Director: Brian De Palma

DramaHistoryThrillerCrime

During the 1930s in Chicago, Eliot Ness assembles a trusted team to dismantle the criminal empire of Al Capone. Facing corruption and immense danger, Ness and his men relentlessly pursue justice, confronting Capone's ruthless tactics and powerful network. Their fight tests their courage and resolve as they strive to bring down one of the most notorious gangsters in American history.

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Timeline – The Untouchables (1987)

Trace every key event in The Untouchables (1987) 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

The Roaring Twenties

As the 1920s drew to a close, the United States was marked by economic prosperity yet faced growing challenges that would lead into the tumultuous 1930s. Chicago became a hotbed for organized crime, with Al Capone reigning as a powerful figure in the illegal liquor trade, evoking fear and respect from both citizens and rival gangs.

1929 Chicago
2

Introduction of Eliot Ness

Eliot Ness, a dedicated Bureau of Prohibition agent, emerged with a firm resolve to dismantle Capone’s vast empire of illegal liquor. Despite the challenges of corruption surrounding him, Ness remained undeterred and committed to his mission to bring justice to Chicago.

Chicago
3

Forming an Alliance

Finding himself obstructed by corrupt police officers, Ness increased his frustration until he encountered James Malone, a seasoned Irish-American cop. Recognizing their shared goal of confronting corruption, they struck an alliance to pursue Capone's formidable empire together.

Chicago
4

Recruiting George Stone

Ness and Malone sought a new recruit to aid in their battle against Capone. They discovered George Stone, an Italian-American rookie, known for his exceptional sharpshooting skills and incorruptible morals, making him the ideal candidate for their team.

Chicago
5

The Untouchables Begin

With the support of accountant Oscar Wallace from Washington, D.C., Ness’ team achieved a significant victory by conducting a successful raid on one of Capone's warehouses. This daring act earned them the nickname 'The Untouchables', which resonated with the public and drew attention from the media.

Chicago
6

Capone's Retribution

In response to the threat posed by Ness and his team, Capone showcased his ruthless nature by murdering the warehouse manager as a warning. This brutal act underscored Capone’s harsh methods of maintaining control and instilled fear in those opposing him.

Chicago
7

Ness Discovers Vulnerability

While investigating further, Ness became aware of Capone's significant vulnerability: his failure to file income tax returns over several years. This discovery opened a new avenue for Ness and his team, prompting them to focus on building a case for tax evasion.

Chicago
8

Threats Against Family

As Ness closed in on Capone’s empire, tensions escalated, leading to Frank Nitti, Capone’s enforcer, issuing a chilling death threat against Ness's family. With their safety in jeopardy, Ness made the difficult decision to relocate them away from the rampant violence.

Chicago
9

Tragedy Strikes

Despite Ness's efforts to protect his loved ones, the violence escalated as Oscar Wallace and George Stone were tragically murdered at the police station. This devastating loss sent shockwaves through Ness’s team and highlighted the dangers posed by Capone’s criminal organization.

Police Station, Chicago
10

Confrontation at the Lexington Hotel

Ness confronted Capone directly at the Lexington Hotel, but he was advised by Malone to prioritize his efforts on persuading the district attorney to keep charges against Capone alive. This crucial decision aimed to ensure that justice would finally be served against the notorious gangster.

Lexington Hotel, Chicago
11

Malone's Struggle

Malone's persistence led him to uncover the whereabouts of Payne, a key figure in Capone’s operations. In a violent clash with one of Capone's henchmen, Malone nearly lost his life, but was saved by Ness and Stone just in time, underscoring their commitment to one another.

Chicago
12

Courtroom Tensions

As the trial against Capone unfolded, Ness was struck by Nitti's provocative presence and the tension it stirred within the courtroom. A subsequent investigation revealed that the Mayor of Chicago had covertly sanctioned Nitti's presence, exposing the deep ties between politics and organized crime.

Chicago Courthouse
13

Nitti's Attempted Escape

In a chaotic turn of events during the trial, Nitti attempted to flee. Ness intercepted him on the rooftop, delivering a fierce blow that resulted in Nitti's fatal fall, marking a bittersweet moment of justice amidst the turmoil.

Chicago Courthouse Rooftop
14

Capone's Conviction

Ness and his team made a breakthrough when they discovered a list of compromised jurors in Nitti's possession. Utilizing this information, Ness convinced the judge to replace the jury, leading to Capone's unexpected guilty plea and an 11-year prison sentence for tax evasion.

Chicago Courthouse
15

Ness's Farewell

On the day of Capone's incarceration, Ness took a moment to honor Malone by passing on a cherished medallion and callbox key to Stone. As he departed from the police station, a journalist's inquiry about his future prompted Ness to humorously quip, 'I think I’ll have a drink,' signaling the end of a significant chapter in his life.

Chicago Police Station

Last Updated: November 21, 2024 at 09:27

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Characters, Settings & Themes in The Untouchables

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