After the Sunset 2004
Directed by
Brett Ratner
Made by
New Line Cinema
Plot Summary
Discover the intricate plot of After the Sunset (2004). From unexpected twists to emotional highs and lows, this detailed summary breaks down every moment to give you a deeper understanding of the film’s story.
After the Sunset follows the daring escapades of master thief Max Burdett and his alluring partner in crime, Lola Cirillo, as they execute the heist of the second of three infamous jewels known as the Napoleon diamonds, a move that brings them into direct conflict with the relentless FBI Agent Stanley P Lloyd. In a gripping twist of fate, Max suffers a gunshot wound at the hands of Lloyd before succumbing to a gas attack. Remarkably, Max survives and instructs Lola to secure the diamond, leaving behind a single dollar bill as a token of their audacious theft. With their fortunes seemingly secured, they retreat to the idyllic Paradise Island in the Bahamas, away from their life of crime.
Yet, Agent Lloyd is not convinced that he has seen the last of them. Six months later, he unexpectedly crashes into their tropical sanctuary, ransacking their home for evidence while absconding with the bullet he shot at Max. When Max returns to find Lloyd in his personal space, both men draw guns but soon lower them, leading to a tense exchange where Lloyd accuses Max of plotting to steal the final Napoleon diamond, which remains unclaimed. Although Max denies these allegations, he becomes increasingly paranoid as Lola suspects he might indeed be planning another heist.
As the plot thickens, Max’s and Lola’s lives intertwine with the local criminal element, particularly the menacing thug Henri Moore, who puts pressure on Max to orchestrate the heist for him. What follows is a dangerous game of cat and mouse, filled with deception and misdirection. Max carefully crafts a counterfeit plan, all while forming an unexpected alliance with the bumbling but earnest Lloyd, who is trying to adjust to the island’s laid-back ambiance.
However, the stakes rise when Max’s live-in arrangements change, and spend time with Lloyd, where they share candid insights about their contrasting lifestyles. A chaotic series of events unfolds, leading to a thrilling scuba diving escapade that inadvertently sparks a rivalry between various parties vying for the coveted diamond. Max, torn between his love for Lola and his thirst for treasure, ultimately finds himself at a crossroads, especially after an explosive showdown involving Moore.
In the end, after both heart-wrenching and humorous moments, Max realizes that true happiness lies not in the glittering stones he once sought, but in his relationship with Lola. He makes a heartfelt proposal with the very first diamond he ever acquired, demonstrating that her love is more precious than any jewel. Their romantic journey encapsulates the beauty of love and the importance of second chances, culminating in Max surrendering to life’s simple pleasures—watching sunsets with his beloved Lola. Though Agent Lloyd emerges victorious in the game of cat and mouse, Max is content to embrace a life filled with love and laughter, vowing to only dabble in mischief here and there, teasing Lola that it’ll be the last time.
Timeline
Track the key events of After the Sunset (2004) with a comprehensive timeline. Perfect for understanding the sequence of major plot points, this feature offers clarity on how the story unfolds.
The Heist Begins
Max Burdett and Lola Cirillo execute a daring heist to steal the second of three Napoleon diamonds. Their meticulous planning and skilled execution lead to a successful escape, setting the stage for their cat-and-mouse game with FBI Agent Lloyd.
Confrontation with Agent Lloyd
Max and Lola's successful heist draws the attention of relentless FBI Agent Stanley P. Lloyd. In a tense confrontation, Max is shot by Lloyd, leading to a chaotic escape and a near-fatal gas attack.
A Fresh Start in Paradise
After the dramatic heist, Max and Lola retreat to the idyllic Paradise Island in the Bahamas. They hope to leave their life of crime behind and enjoy their newfound fortune, unaware that their past is not yet finished with them.
Lloyd's Unexpected Visit
Six months later, Agent Lloyd crashes into Max and Lola's tropical sanctuary. He ransacks their home in search of incriminating evidence, leaving Max feeling vulnerable and paranoid about his past activities.
An Intense Standoff
Max returns home to find Agent Lloyd in his living space, culminating in a charged standoff where both men draw their guns. The tense situation defuses as they engage in a heated dialogue about the final Napoleon diamond.
Rising Paranoia
As suspicions rise, Lola begins to question Max's intentions, fearing that he might be planning another heist. Max, growing increasingly paranoid himself, struggles with the idea of returning to a life of crime.
Pressure from Henri Moore
Local thug Henri Moore begins to put pressure on Max to carry out a heist for him. This new conflict complicates Max's relationship with Lola and introduces a dangerous new element into their lives.
Counterfeit Plans
In an attempt to navigate the pressure from Moore, Max devises a counterfeit plan while trying to keep Lola out of harm's way. His secretive behavior adds tension to their relationship, leaving Lola suspicious.
Unexpected Alliance
Max and Agent Lloyd unexpectedly form an alliance as Max helps Lloyd adapt to island life. Their interactions reveal deeper insights into both characters, creating a complex dynamic amidst their rivalry.
Scuba Diving Adventure
A thrilling scuba diving escapade leads to unforeseen consequences, igniting rivalries among various parties with aspirations for the final Napoleon diamond. The stakes are raised as tensions flare in this dangerous game.
Max's Crossroads
Faced with mounting pressures, Max confronts the conflict between his love for Lola and his greed for treasure. This internal struggle intensifies, especially after a violent encounter with Moore.
The Proposal
Ultimately, Max realizes that true happiness comes from love rather than material possessions. He proposes to Lola using the very first diamond he acquired, symbolizing his shift in priorities.
Embracing Love and Life
In the aftermath of their adventures, Max chooses to embrace a simpler life with Lola, filled with love and laughter. They find joy in watching sunsets together, cherishing the beauty of their relationship.
Agent Lloyd's Victory
Despite Max's choice to leave his life of crime behind, Agent Lloyd emerges victorious in their ongoing game of cat and mouse. Yet, Max's contentment in love marks a significant personal victory.
A Mischievous Future
Even as Max settles into a peaceful life, he playfully hints at dabbling in mischief again. With a promise to Lola that it will be the last time, he embraces the fun side of his adventurous spirit.
Characters
Meet the characters that bring After the Sunset (2004) to life. Dive into detailed profiles of the cast and their roles, exploring their motivations, relationships, and arcs within the story.
Max Burdett (Pierce Brosnan)
Max is a charming and cunning master thief with a flair for the dramatics. Throughout the film, he grapples with the consequences of his criminal choices while trying to impress the woman he loves. His journey reveals a more profound transformation as he learns the true meaning of happiness beyond diamonds.
Lola Cirillo (Salma Hayek)
Lola is a captivating and resourceful partner to Max, equally skilled in the art of deception. Her character reflects both strength and vulnerability as she navigates her love for Max amid plans for their next heist. As the story unfolds, Lola becomes the anchor that reminds Max of what truly matters in life.
Stanley P Lloyd (Woody Harrelson)
Agent Lloyd is a relentless FBI agent whose pursuit of Max serves as a source of tension throughout the film. Although initially depicted as an antagonist, his character evolution reveals a more comical and relatable side as he tries to adapt to island life. His interactions with Max lead to unexpected camaraderie and mutual respect.
Setting
Uncover the settings of After the Sunset (2004), from iconic locations to the time period that shapes its world. See how these elements add depth and context to the movie’s narrative.
Time period
The movie unfolds in a modern setting, where traditional heist films blend with contemporary themes of love and loyalty. The tension between characters highlights the evolving dynamics of relationships in today's society, along with the constant presence of technological advancements that challenge their criminal endeavors.
Location
Paradise Island, Bahamas
Paradise Island in the Bahamas is renowned for its stunning beaches and luxurious resorts, offering a serene escape from the chaos of everyday life. Known for its crystal-clear waters and vibrant marine life, it provides an idyllic backdrop for romance and adventure. The island's laid-back ambiance contrasts with the thrilling escapades of Max and Lola.
Themes
Explore the core themes of After the Sunset (2004). From its commentary on social issues to its emotional undertones, delve into the deeper messages woven into the film’s story.
💎
Desire
The hunger for wealth drives Max and Lola's actions throughout the film, encapsulating the theme of desire. Their pursuit of the Napoleon diamonds serves as a catalyst for their relationship, testing their loyalty and trust. However, by the end, Max discovers that true wealth is rooted in love and connection rather than material possessions.
❤️
Love
At its core, 'After the Sunset' is a romantic tale that navigates the complexities of love amid chaos. Max's growing affection for Lola transcends their criminal lifestyle, leading him to reevaluate what truly matters. The film beautifully illustrates how love can provide guidance and redemption in a life filled with mischief and challenges.
⚔️
Conflict
The tension between Max and Agent Lloyd embodies the theme of conflict that permeates the narrative. Their rivalry escalates as both their personal and professional lives collide, showcasing the cat-and-mouse chase that keeps audiences on edge. Ultimately, this conflict serves as a backdrop for character growth and introspection.
Featured on this page
What's After the Movie?
Not sure whether to stay after the credits? Find out!
Check out our other apps:
Actors
Companies
Latest Movies
© 2025 What's After the Movie?. All rights reserved.