Metro 1997
Directed by
Thomas Carter
Made by
Buena Vista Pictures
Plot Summary
Scott Roper, played by Eddie Murphy, ranks as San Francisco’s top hostage negotiator. His girlfriend, Veronica “Ronnie” Tate, is a journalist with a knack for uncovering stories. One fateful day, while Scott is engrossed in a horse race via his car stereo, he receives a distress call about a bank hostage situation involving a man named Earl, portrayed by Donal Logue, who is holding 17 people captive. In a tense standoff, Scott brings the situation to a close by shooting Earl, who survives the encounter.
Following this chaotic event, Scott is assigned to work alongside sharpshooter Kevin McCall. Later that evening, Scott enlists the help of his friend, Lieutenant Sam Baffert, played by Art Evans, to gather intelligence from a notorious jewel thief, Michael Korda. While Sam questions Korda, he becomes the victim of a brutal stabbing, leaving Scott devastated and enraged upon discovering Sam’s body.
Despite Captain Frank Solis, played by Denis Arndt, forbidding him from pursuing Korda, Scott takes matters into his own hands. The pursuit heightens when Scott and Kevin are summoned to a jewelry store where Korda has taken hostages. They engage in a high-octane chase as Korda escapes in a truck. The thrilling pursuit continues onto a runaway trolley, ultimately leading to a dramatic confrontation in a parking garage where the duo successfully captures Korda.
However, the stakes rise when Korda, while jailed, orders a hit on Ronnie through his cousin, Clarence Teal. In a timely intervention, Scott confronts Teal, resulting in a deadly altercation. Furious and determined, Scott warns Korda to steer clear of Ronnie, but the threat escalates as Korda orchestrates a bold escape from prison and kidnaps her.
In an intense showdown at an abandoned shipyard, Korda threatens Ronnie with a gruesome fate if Scott does not comply with his demands. Meanwhile, Kevin, positioned in a nearby building with a sniper rifle, becomes an essential part of the rescue mission. A high-speed chase ensues when Korda attempts to run over Scott with his sports car; however, Kevin’s timely intervention alters the course of the confrontation. Ultimately, Scott faces Korda in a heart-stopping climax involving explosive barrels, leading to Korda’s spectacular downfall.
The film concludes with a serene scene of Scott and Ronnie enjoying their well-deserved vacation at a beautiful Tahitian beach resort, leaving behind the chaos and violence they overcame.
Timeline
Scott Roper's Success
Scott Roper, portrayed by Eddie Murphy, is recognized as San Francisco's top hostage negotiator. His reputation is built on his ability to handle tense situations effectively.
A Distress Call
While listening to a horse race in his car, Scott receives a distress call about a bank hostage situation. A man named Earl, played by Donal Logue, is holding 17 people captive, prompting Scott's urgent response.
The Standoff
Scott engages in a tense standoff with Earl at the bank. In a critical moment, Scott shoots Earl, bringing the hostage situation to a close, although Earl survives the encounter.
Team-Up with Kevin
Following the bank incident, Scott is assigned to work with sharpshooter Kevin McCall. The duo must navigate the challenges of hostage negotiation and apprehending criminals.
A Friend's Tragic Loss
Later that evening, Scott seeks intelligence from jewel thief Michael Korda with his friend Lieutenant Sam Baffert. Tragically, Sam is stabbed during questioning, leaving Scott devastated and seeking vengeance.
Defying Orders
Despite being forbidden by Captain Frank Solis from pursuing Korda, Scott decides to take matters into his own hands. His determination to find justice for Sam pushes him into a dangerous game.
The Jewelry Store Hostage Crisis
Scott and Kevin are called to a jewelry store where Korda has taken hostages. The situation escalates rapidly, showcasing Scott's negotiation skills and the tense environment.
Chase Begins
Korda escapes in a truck, initiating a thrilling pursuit. Scott and Kevin chase him through the streets, demonstrating their exceptional skills in a high-octane adventure.
Confrontation at the Garage
The chase culminates in a dramatic confrontation in a parking garage. Scott and Kevin work together to successfully capture Korda, but the danger is far from over.
Korda's Revenge
While in prison, Korda orchestrates a hit on Ronnie through his cousin Clarence Teal. Scott learns of this deadly plot, intensifying his resolve to protect her at all costs.
Kidnapping of Ronnie
Korda escapes from prison and kidnaps Ronnie, adding another layer of urgency to Scott’s mission. The stakes are raised as Scott must confront Korda to save the woman he loves.
Showdown at the Shipyard
In a tense showdown at an abandoned shipyard, Korda threatens Ronnie, demanding Scott comply with his sinister plans. The atmosphere is charged with danger and desperation.
Kevin's Critical Support
During the confrontation, Kevin positions himself in a nearby building with a sniper rifle, ready to intervene. His strategic role becomes crucial in assisting Scott during the rescue mission.
Final Confrontation
A high-speed chase ensues as Korda attempts to run over Scott with his sports car. Kevin's timely shooting alters the course of events, leading to a thrilling climax of the showdown.
A Peaceful Resolution
The film concludes with Scott and Ronnie enjoying a vacation at a beautiful Tahitian beach resort. After overcoming chaos and violence, they finally find peace and happiness together.
Characters
Scott Roper (Eddie Murphy)
Scott Roper is San Francisco's top hostage negotiator, known for his quick thinking and determination. His relentless pursuit of justice often puts him in perilous situations, particularly as he grapples with personal loss and the safety of his loved ones. Scott's character embodies resilience, intellect, and the emotional weight of his profession.
Ronnie Tate
Ronnie Tate is a resourceful journalist, closely tied to Scott. Her investigative skills play a crucial role in the unfolding story, reflecting her strength and independence. As the story progresses, she becomes a pivotal character whose safety becomes Scott's priority, showcasing her vulnerability amid turmoil.
Michael Korda
Michael Korda is a notorious jewel thief whose actions instigate much of the film's conflict. Clever and ruthless, he orchestrates numerous dangerous situations, making him a formidable antagonist. His character challenges Scott and tests his negotiating skills, intensifying the plot's stakes.
Lieutenant Sam Baffert (Art Evans)
Lieutenant Sam Baffert is Scott's reliable friend and police colleague, providing critical support in dangerous situations. His character embodies loyalty and camaraderie, enhancing Scott's emotional journey as he seeks justice. Sam's demise adds urgency and depth to Scott's quest.
Setting
Time period
The film is set in contemporary times, showcasing a blend of modern police procedures and urban life. The action unfolds in a fast-paced environment, reflecting the immediacy and urgency of Scott's role as a hostage negotiator.
Location
San Francisco, Tahitian beach resort
San Francisco is a vibrant city known for its iconic landmarks like the Golden Gate Bridge and rich cultural history. The urban landscape, with its steep hills and diverse neighborhoods, provides a dynamic backdrop for Scott Roper's high-stakes negotiations. The film also features a beautiful Tahitian beach resort, symbolizing peace and relaxation after the intense action.
Themes
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Justice
Justice is central to the narrative as Scott Roper navigates the complexities of hostage negotiation and personal vendettas. The film explores the lengths one will go to ensure safety and protect loved ones, emphasizing moral dilemmas faced by law enforcement. Scott's determination to confront danger showcases the theme of justice in both personal and professional realms.
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Love
The love between Scott and Ronnie serves as a motivating force throughout the film. Despite the chaos surrounding them, their relationship is a source of strength and vulnerability. This theme underscores the importance of connection and trust in overcoming life's adversities.
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Action
Action defines the film's pacing, with thrilling chases and intense confrontations. The stakes escalate constantly, highlighting the adrenaline-fueled sequences that propel the narrative forward. This theme keeps viewers on the edge of their seats, driving the suspense and excitement.
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