Directed by
Dean Devlin
Made by
Warner Bros. Pictures
Discover the intricate plot of Geostorm (2017). 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.
In 2019, an international coalition sets in motion a revolutionary project involving climate-controlling satellites known as “Dutch Boy.” This ambitious initiative is initially placed under the control of the US government. When Dutch Boy successfully neutralizes a furious typhoon, Jake Lawson (Gerard Butler), the chief architect of the project, faces severe criticism from a Senate sub-committee for acting without authorization. Consequently, he is replaced by his brother, Max Lawson (Jim Sturgess), who is working under Secretary of State Leonard Dekkom (Ed Harris). Due to security lapses revealed during this transition, plans to transfer Dutch Boy from US oversight to an international committee come to a halt.
Fast forward three years, a United Nations team in Afghanistan stumbles upon a bizarre sight: a frozen village nestled in one of the hottest deserts on Earth. In this critical moment, an Indian engineer named Makmoud steals crucial data from the Afghanistan satellite right before an ominous incident sends him hurtling into space. He cunningly hides a hard disk with vital information in his personal locker before his life-altering “accident.” After discussions with President Andrew Palma (Andy García), Max persuades Jake to embark on a mission to investigate the circumstances surrounding the Dutch Boy satellite and the apparent disaster it instigated.
While navigating the aftermath of the typhoon, temperatures begin to soar dangerously high in Hong Kong, resulting in a menacing Firenado that nearly takes the life of Cheng Long (Daniel Wu), who leads the Dutch Boy’s operations in the region. Arriving at the International Climate Space Station (ICSS), Jake collaborates with station commander Ute Fassbinder (Alexandra Maria Lara) and her team to investigate the satellite responsible for the catastrophic event. However, an unexpected malfunction erases critical data necessary for deciphering the events that unfolded.
On Earth, Cheng’s access is revoked, and he warns Max of a looming global catastrophe termed “Geostorm” if the faults within the system aren’t addressed swiftly. As a determined Cheng makes his way to the United States while evading armed operatives, Jake and Ute venture outside the ICSS to recover a hard drive ejected during the chaos caused by Makmoud. They remain cautious, suspecting that a traitor exists among their crew.
Jake’s suspicions lead him to appropriately inform Max about their findings, revealing a dangerous nexus of malfunctioning satellites causing extreme weather scenarios linked to a code named Zeus—a shocking proposal for manipulating climatic patterns. Meanwhile, a crisis escalates as Cheng meets a tragic end just as he attempts to communicate vital information to Max.
In a daring twist, Jake, Ute, and Ray Dussette (Amr Waked) discover evidence that exposes a pernicious virus tampering with login access to vital satellites. Jake grows increasingly convinced that President Palma has ulterior motives, suspecting that the leader intends to leverage Dutch Boy as a weapon rather than handing it over to the international committee. Realizing the stakes are monumental, he needs the kill code held by the President to execute a system reboot.
With chaos brewing across the globe, Max reaches out to his girlfriend Sarah Wilson (Abbie Cornish), a Secret Service agent, for assistance in obtaining the critical kill code. After a series of events where Japan faces fierce storms and Rio de Janeiro suffers from icy conditions, Max finds himself in a deadly game of survival as he seeks help from Dekkom, only to realize that his ally has turned adversarial.
Max and Sarah resort to extreme measures, seizing President Palma to shield him from compromised security agents. As they navigate through tumult, they reveal the insidious plans Dekkom has set in motion—eliminating America’s foes and angling for global dominance. Meanwhile, Jake grapples with a critical self-destruct process initiated by the virus in the ICSS, exposing the catastrophic spiral of events.
In a gripping finale, Jake valiantly holds the line as the crew evacuates, ensuring the system reboot is executed despite overwhelming odds. The effort culminates in a dangerous showdown, but unity amongst Jake and Ute proves pivotal as they manage to transfer satellite control to NASA just in the nick of time. The distress signal successfully leads to their rescue, and, months later, Jake rises as the lead engineer of a revamped satellite system now governed by an international body, bringing hope for a safer future.
Track the key events of Geostorm (2017) with a comprehensive timeline. Perfect for understanding the sequence of major plot points, this feature offers clarity on how the story unfolds.
Initiation of Dutch Boy Project
In 2019, the United States government initiates a groundbreaking project called Dutch Boy, aimed at climate control through a series of satellites. This ambitious project aims to prevent devastating weather events by manipulating climate conditions globally.
Typhoon Neutralized
Dutch Boy demonstrates its capabilities when it successfully neutralizes a furious typhoon, showcasing the potential of the satellite system. However, this success draws criticism when chief architect Jake Lawson acts without proper authorization.
Leadership Change
Following the backlash from the Senate sub-committee, Jake Lawson is relieved of his duties and replaced by his brother, Max Lawson, who works under Secretary of State Leonard Dekkom. This shift in leadership raises concerns about the oversight and future direction of the Dutch Boy project.
Discovery in Afghanistan
Three years later, a United Nations team in Afghanistan discovers an inexplicably frozen village in the hot desert. Amidst this bizarre finding, an Indian engineer named Makmoud steals crucial satellite data before a catastrophic incident sends him into space.
Jake and Max Team Up
After learning of the incident from President Andrew Palma, Max persuades Jake to help investigate the satellite's mysterious failures. Their mission is crucial to uncovering the truth behind the calamity associated with Dutch Boy.
Danger in Hong Kong
As temperatures rise dangerously in Hong Kong, a Firenado emerges, threatening many lives. Cheng Long, the head of Dutch Boy's Hong Kong operations, narrowly escapes but faces dire consequences as critical errors are uncovered.
Data Malfunction
Upon arriving at the International Climate Space Station (ICSS), Jake and station commander Ute Fassbinder attempt to analyze the malfunctioning satellite's data. To their shock, critical information necessary for their investigation is erased by an unexpected system failure.
Warning of Geostorm
Cheng, now facing a loss of privileges, warns Max about an impending global catastrophe known as Geostorm. He stresses the urgency of addressing the system failures to avoid disaster while evading threats from armed operatives.
Nexus of Malfunction
Jake discovers a troubling pattern of satellite malfunctions tied to a sinister code named Zeus. As extreme weather events escalate, he realizes the implications of manipulating climate systems and the potential for widespread disaster.
Tragic Loss
As tensions rise, Cheng meets a tragic fate while trying to pass vital information to Max. His death heightens the urgency of the situation as Jake and Ute become increasingly suspicious of potential betrayal within their ranks.
Virus Discovered
Jake, Ute, and Ray Dussette uncover evidence of a virus that compromises the login systems of crucial satellites. This revelation raises alarms about President Palma's intentions and the possibility that Dutch Boy could be weaponized.
Chaos Unfolds
Max, realizing the dire circumstances, reaches out to his girlfriend Sarah for assistance in acquiring a vital kill code to shut down the corrupted systems. Meanwhile, global situations worsen in places like Japan and Rio de Janeiro, amplifying the stakes.
Seizing Control
In a bold move, Max and Sarah take action against President Palma, suspecting that his security agents pose a serious threat. They unveil Dekkom's sinister plans to manipulate global politics by eliminating adversaries using the Dutch Boy technology.
Showdown in Space
Jake faces a life-or-death situation as the ICSS initiates a destructive self-destruct sequence. He collaborates with Ute to ensure the reboot of the systems, racing against time to prevent a global catastrophe.
Resolution and Recovery
In the gripping finale, Jake and Ute manage to transfer satellite control to NASA just in time to avert disaster. Months later, a secure and internationally governed satellite system offers hope for a safer future, with Jake at the helm.
Meet the characters that bring Geostorm (2017) to life. Dive into detailed profiles of the cast and their roles, exploring their motivations, relationships, and arcs within the story.
Jake Lawson
Jake Lawson is the chief architect behind the Dutch Boy satellite project, embodying resilience and determination. He faces significant obstacles and challenges authority while seeking to uncover the truth behind the satellite's failures. His character evolves from a disgraced leader to a hero who ultimately saves the world.
Max Lawson
Max Lawson, Jake's brother, is thrust into a complex web of political intrigue and familial loyalty. As he navigates his responsibilities amidst looming disasters, Max must confront his own moral dilemmas, balancing personal relationships and global stakes. His character arc reflects the struggle for redemption and the fight against betrayal.
President Andrew Palma
President Palma is a powerful figure whose motives come into question as the crisis deepens. As the leader of the free world, he has to make difficult choices and navigate through deceit and ambition. His character embodies the complexities of leadership in times of disaster, reflecting on the burdens of power.
Sarah Wilson
Sarah Wilson is a dedicated Secret Service agent and Max's girlfriend, representing strength and loyalty. She plays a crucial role in the unfolding events by supporting Max in securing vital information. Sarah's commitment to her partner and her profession highlights the themes of sacrifice and courage.
Ute Fassbinder
Ute Fassbinder is the commander of the International Climate Space Station, displaying unwavering leadership and expertise. As chaos ensues, she works alongside Jake to unravel the truth about the satellite malfunctions. Her character signifies cooperation in the face of adversity and the importance of clear communication.
Uncover the settings of Geostorm (2017), 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
2019, 2022
The events of 'Geostorm' are set in a near-future world, primarily around the years 2019 and 2022. During this time, advancements in climate-controlling technology raise ethical dilemmas and reveal potential dangers of man-made interventions in nature, culminating in a global crisis that tests international cooperation and responses to climate emergencies.
Location
United States, Afghanistan, Hong Kong, International Climate Space Station
The movie takes viewers across various global settings, including the United States where the Dutch Boy project was initiated, and Afghanistan, known for its harsh desert landscape, where a frozen village presents a mysterious anomaly. Hong Kong features prominently as it experiences extreme weather conditions due to satellite malfunctions. The action also unfolds at the International Climate Space Station (ICSS), which serves as a crucial hub for satellite operations.
Explore the core themes of Geostorm (2017). From its commentary on social issues to its emotional undertones, delve into the deeper messages woven into the film’s story.
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Climate Crisis
The film delves into the theme of climate control versus nature, illustrating the ramifications of technology on the environment. As the world faces unprecedented weather phenomena, it raises questions about human intervention and the ethical implications of altering natural systems. The catastrophic events underscore the urgency of tackling climate issues collectively.
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Betrayal
Betrayal serves as a critical theme throughout the narrative, particularly in political and personal relationships. Characters grapple with trust issues as they navigate treacherous alliances, revealing hidden agendas that threaten not only their lives but also the safety of the planet. The tension between loyalty and self-preservation is palpable.
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Redemption
Redemption is a recurring theme as the protagonist, Jake Lawson, embarks on a quest to rectify his past mistakes associated with Dutch Boy. Throughout the movie, both Jake and his brother Max strive for personal growth while confronting the consequences of their decisions. Their journey symbolizes hope and the possibility of second chances amidst global chaos.
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