The Yards

The Yards

Year: 2000

Runtime: 115 min

Language: English

Director: James Gray

DramaThrillerCrime

After being released from prison, Leo Handler tries to build a new life working in the New York City subway yards. He reconnects with his uncle, a powerful figure in this dangerous environment, and finds himself drawn back into a world of crime and corruption. Leo must confront betrayals and navigate a complex web of loyalty and violence as he fights to escape his past and reclaim his future.

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Timeline – The Yards (2000)

Trace every key event in The Yards (2000) 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

Leo's Surprise Party

As Leo Handler returns home, he discovers a surprise party thrown by his mother, Val, in celebration of his parole. This event marks a joyous reunion that highlights Val's unwavering support and love for Leo throughout his struggles.

Queens
2

Leo's Bond with Willie

At the party, Willie Gutierrez expresses his deep gratitude towards Leo for protecting him and others during Leo's time in prison. This moment underscores the friendship and loyalty Leo has fostered, even under dire circumstances.

Queens
3

Job Offer from Frank

To express his appreciation for Val, Leo decides to work for Frank Olchin, Erica's stepfather. This decision marks a pivotal moment for Leo as he seeks to rejuvenate his life after incarceration by taking a job at the Electric Rail Corporation.

Electric Rail Corporation
4

Beginning the Machinist Program

When Leo reports to Electric Rail Corporation, Frank offers to sponsor him for a two-year machinist program. However, Leo's urgency for immediate income leads him to inquire about getting Willie hired as well, which Frank refuses.

Maspeth, New York
5

Bar Discussion on Subcontracting

After Frank's refusal, Leo and Willie share their frustrations over drinks at a bar. Their conversation steers towards the controversial contract system affecting subway repairs, revealing both their dissatisfaction with the current state of affairs.

Local Bar
6

Willie's Tempting Offer

Following a tense hearing regarding contracts, Willie is approached by Hector Gallardo with an enticing offer to leave Frank's company. This moment signifies a crucial turning point as Willie navigates the implications of allegiance and opportunity.

Brooklyn Borough Hall
7

Bribery at Roosevelt Island

Willie takes Leo on a secretive trip to Roosevelt Island, where he attempts to bribe a contract official. This action ignites a series of events that spiral into chaos, beginning Leo's descent back into the murky world of crime.

Roosevelt Island
8

Sabotage at Sunnyside Yards

Under the cover of darkness, Leo and Willie's crew engage in intentional sabotage at the Sunnyside repair yards to ruin Weltech's reputation. However, their plan takes a dangerous twist when they are confronted by corrupt officials.

Sunnyside repair yards
9

Escalation with Police

When Officer Jerry Rifkin arrives on the scene, panic ensues. Leo, desperate to avoid returning to prison, finds himself in a violent altercation with the officer, culminating in an accidental attack that leaves Rifkin unconscious.

10

Tragic Stabbing Incident

In the aftermath of the confrontation, Leo is horrified to witness Willie fatally stab the yard master, Elliot Gorwitz. This shocking event deepens the gravity of their situation, leaving Leo to grapple with the moral and legal implications of their actions.

11

Conspiracy to Silence a Witness

With Officer Rifkin in the hospital, Willie and his crew concoct a plan to eliminate him before he can implicate Leo. The stakes rise as they navigate the chaos, uncertain of how to escape the repercussions of their growing web of deceit.

12

Police Raid at Val's Apartment

As law enforcement searches for Leo, his mother Val faces turmoil as police raid her apartment. This moment marks a turning point for Val, who must confront both the consequences of her son's actions and a personal health crisis.

Val's Apartment
13

Willie's Betrayal Revealed

Erica realizes the true extent of Willie's involvement in Gorwitz's murder and ends their romantic relationship. This revelation creates a rift among friends and further complicates the unfolding crisis faced by Leo.

14

Leo's Decision to Testify

Despite threats from Frank, Leo decides to come forward against those responsible for the systemic corruption in their lives. His determination to seek truth and justice culminates in his testimony at a public hearing about the rail yard incident.

Queens Borough President's Office
15

Final Departure from Queens

In the wake of the turmoil and tragedy, Leo rejects Frank's offer of protection, choosing instead to stand by his convictions. He leaves Queens on the elevated train, symbolizing his commitment to justice and his resolve to break free from the chains of corruption.

Queens

Last Updated: November 21, 2024 at 12:21

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Characters, Settings & Themes in The Yards

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