Fargo 1996

Jerry's Financial Troubles

In the frigid winter of 1987, Jerry Lundegaard faces significant financial difficulties as an automobile salesman in Minneapolis. His dealership is struggling under the control of his affluent father-in-law, Wade Gustafson, while Jerry has been embezzling money, putting him in a precarious situation.

The Kidnapping Plan

In desperation, Jerry concocts a plan to have his wife, Jean, kidnapped to extort a ransom from his father-in-law. He believes this will resolve his financial woes and allow him to escape the pressure he feels from his business and his family.

Meeting the Criminals

To implement his scheme, Jerry is introduced to Gaear Grimsrud through Shep Proudfoot, a mechanic at the dealership. Gaear, a hardened criminal, teams up with Carl Showalter, and they agree to carry out the kidnapping for a promised share of the ransom.

Travel to Fargo

Jerry travels to Fargo, North Dakota, where he meets Gaear and Carl to finalize the kidnapping plan. Tensions rise as Carl questions the viability of Jerry's scheme, but the lure of money keeps them focused on their criminal objective.

Unraveling the Scheme

While Jerry is optimistic about a real estate deal that could solve his financial issues, his kidnapping plan begins to unravel. Carl and Gaear unexpectedly cause violence, culminating in a fatal encounter during a routine police stop, escalating their criminal activity.

Marge Gunderson's Investigation

As the chaos unfolds, local police chief Marge Gunderson, seven months pregnant, starts her investigation into the growing body count. Her acute intuition helps her piece together the connections between the dealership, the missing cars, and the violent events.

Jerry's Lies Begin to Unravel

As Marge continues her investigation, Jerry's web of lies begins to be exposed. His attempts to manipulate the kidnapping and maintain control over the situation become increasingly desperate as he realizes the implications of the events around him.

Violence Escalates

Carl and Gaear's greed drives them to increasingly violent actions, resulting in further murders. This marks a stark turning point in the narrative, as the tranquility of the rural setting is shattered by their reckless behavior, intensifying the tension of the story.

Confrontation at the Cabin

The climax of the events culminates in a violent confrontation at a remote cabin. Jerry's plan spins completely out of control, leading to chaos and confrontation as the criminals face the dire consequences of their actions.

Marge's Personal Struggles

As she carries out her investigation, Marge deals with her own personal life, including the impending arrival of her child and the distractions of a former classmate's affections. This subplot adds depth to her character amidst the main storyline.

The Capture

In the end, Marge successfully captures Gaear, bringing a sense of justice to the chaotic events that unfolded. Her determination and skill highlight her role as a capable and resilient protagonist in the face of adversity.

Jerry's Downfall

Jerry's attempts to cover his tracks fail spectacularly, leading to his ultimate downfall. He finds himself entrenched in the consequences of his greed and deceit, showcasing the moral implications of his actions.