The Rocketeer 1991
Directed by
Joe Johnston
Made by
Buena Vista Pictures
Plot Summary
Discover the intricate plot of The Rocketeer (1991). 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.
The film is set in Los Angeles in 1938, where a flight crew is preparing to launch a new aircraft known as the GeeBee. Pilot Cliff Secord is deep in conversation with his mechanic and best friend, Peevy (Alan Arkin), about their ambitions to showcase the plane in an upcoming national air show. As a good luck charm, Cliff places a piece of Beeman’s chewing gum on the tail of the aircraft before confidently taking off for a test flight.
Unbeknownst to Cliff, a dramatic gunfight is unfolding below him, as a pair of gangsters engage in a fierce battle with FBI agents while escaping in a car. Mistaking Cliff for law enforcement, one gangster shoots at his plane. As Cliff struggles to regain control, the gangsters make their way to the runway, where chaos ensues. Following the collision of Cliff’s plane with a car, the GeeBee crash-lands, and while he escapes the fiery wreckage, his courageous instincts push him to return for a treasured photo of his girlfriend — just as a massive explosion rocks the area when the gangster’s vehicle crashes into a fuel truck.
The unsuspecting FBI lays blame for the crash at Cliff’s feet, especially after they only recover what appears to be an old vacuum cleaner in the wreckage, prompting disappointment from Howard Hughes (Terry O’Quinn). A confrontation with the airfield owner, Bigelow (Jon Polito), leads to Cliff and Peevy being forced into humiliating clown acts that would take ages to clear their debts.
Determined to turn their fortunes around, Cliff discovers a hidden package in the biplane they are to use for the clown show. Inside, they find a mysterious rocket pack, which Cliff excitedly plans to use to make money despite Peevy’s objections about its questionable origins. Meanwhile, gangster leader Eddie Valentine (Paul Sorvino) pressures his employer, Neville Sinclair (Timothy Dalton), for results, as Sinclair eagerly seeks the stolen rocket pack for his sinister purposes.
Cliff’s love life also blossoms as he spends time with Jenny Blake, an aspiring actress who has recently auditioned for one of Sinclair’s films. Their date night turns rocky when Cliff, still trying to cover up the chaotic truth of his test flight, inadvertently lies to Jenny. Conflict arises when she learns the truth, causing a rift in their relationship.
As events escalate, Cliff plunges into a world of espionage and crime as the saga unfolds through daring rescues, unexpected betrayals, and explosive showdowns. Cliff’s rollercoaster ride as the Rocketeer culminates in a thrilling showdown atop a zeppelin, where heroism and love collide amidst the threat of war, leading to a dramatic escape for Cliff and Jenny. In the aftermath, the duo is gifted a bright future, not just as a couple, but also with newfound plans for the rocket pack, ensuring their adventures are far from over.
Timeline
Track the key events of The Rocketeer (1991) with a comprehensive timeline. Perfect for understanding the sequence of major plot points, this feature offers clarity on how the story unfolds.
Preparation for the Air Show
In Los Angeles in 1938, pilot Cliff Secord and his mechanic Peevy discuss their ambitions for showcasing the newly built aircraft, the GeeBee, at an upcoming national air show. Their excitement is palpable as they prepare for what they hope will be a life-changing event.
Test Flight and Chaos Begins
Cliff confidently takes off for a test flight, placing a piece of Beeman's chewing gum on the tail as a good luck charm. However, unbeknownst to him, a fierce gunfight erupts below between gangsters and FBI agents, spiraling into chaos that soon impacts Cliff's flight.
The Shootout
As Cliff soars above, one of the gangsters mistakes him for law enforcement and shoots at his plane. The situation escalates with gangsters fleeing to the runway, causing Cliff to struggle for control of the GeeBee amidst this unforeseen crossfire.
The Crash Landing
Following the collision with a fleeing car, the GeeBee crash-lands in a dramatic scene full of fire and chaos. Despite the wreckage, Cliff's instincts compel him to return to the burning wreck to retrieve a treasured photo of his girlfriend before a massive explosion ensues.
FBI Blame Cliff
In the aftermath of the crash, the FBI mistakenly places the blame on Cliff for the catastrophic events. Their inability to find any substantial evidence other than an old vacuum cleaner leads to disappointment from aviation magnate Howard Hughes.
Humiliation at the Airfield
Faced with financial troubles, Cliff and Peevy confront an irate airfield owner, Bigelow. They are coerced into performing humiliating clown acts to pay off their debts, highlighting the desperate measures they must take amidst their misfortunes.
Discovery of the Rocket Pack
While preparing for their clown show, Cliff discovers a hidden package inside the biplane they are to use. Opening it reveals a mysterious rocket pack, igniting Cliff's excitement for potential profit, despite Peevy's reservations about its origins.
Gangster Threats
Meanwhile, gangster leader Eddie Valentine pressures Neville Sinclair for results, as Sinclair has his eyes set on recovering the stolen rocket pack. Tensions begin to rise as Sinclair's sinister motives come to the forefront, intertwining with Cliff's life.
Cliff and Jenny's Relationship
Cliff's romantic life flourishes as he dates Jenny Blake, an aspiring actress. Their relationship takes a turn when Cliff lies to Jenny about his tumultuous test flight, leading to conflict when she discovers the truth, threatening their budding romance.
Plunge into Espionage
As the chaos escalates, Cliff becomes entangled in a world of espionage and crime. His journey brings daring rescues and unexpected betrayals, while he navigates the pressures of both love and their quest for survival.
Showdown on the Zeppelin
The climax unfolds atop a zeppelin, setting the stage for an explosive showdown where Cliff must confront Sinclair and the gangsters. Amidst the peril of war and the threat to their lives, heroism becomes a beacon of hope for him and Jenny.
Dramatic Escape
In a nail-biting finale, Cliff and Jenny execute a dramatic escape from the zeppelin. Their survival is not only a testament to their love but also solidifies their resolve for a shared future filled with adventures and newfound plans for the rocket pack.
A Bright Future Ahead
The aftermath of the harrowing experience leaves Cliff and Jenny optimistic about their future. The pair embrace their newly cemented bond as they ponder the possibilities of their adventures with the rocket pack now secured.
Characters
Meet the characters that bring The Rocketeer (1991) to life. Dive into detailed profiles of the cast and their roles, exploring their motivations, relationships, and arcs within the story.
Cliff Secord (Bill Campbell)
Cliff Secord is a passionate and daring pilot driven by his passion for aviation and desire for adventure. His determination to prove himself is highlighted when he unexpectedly becomes the Rocketeer. However, his character also grapples with the weight of responsibility and the challenges posed by crime and deception.
Jenny Blake (Jennifer Connelly)
Jenny Blake is an aspiring actress whose love for Cliff grounds her character amidst the chaos of the storyline. Ambitious and determined, she navigates the complexities of her relationship with Cliff while pursuing her dreams in the film industry. Her strength and vulnerability add depth to the film’s romantic narrative.
Setting
Uncover the settings of The Rocketeer (1991), 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
1938
The year 1938 was marked by significant global tensions as the world edged closer to World War II. In America, aviation was becoming a symbol of progress and adventure, where courageous pilots and groundbreaking inventions captured public imagination. This era fostered a spirit of American heroism, seen vividly through Cliff's escapades as he balances ambition and romance.
Location
Los Angeles
Los Angeles in 1938 serves as a vibrant backdrop for the film, embodying the adventurous spirit of the aviation era. Known for its burgeoning film industry and as a hub of innovation, the city is bustling with energy. The clash of gangsters and FBI agents against the glamorous lifestyle of aspiring actors adds to the city's dramatic fabric.
Themes
Explore the core themes of The Rocketeer (1991). From its commentary on social issues to its emotional undertones, delve into the deeper messages woven into the film’s story.
🕵️♂️
Espionage
The theme of espionage plays a crucial role as Cliff finds himself entangled in a web of crime and intrigue. The pursuit of the rocket pack drives the narrative, showcasing the sinister motives of villainous characters. Cliff’s transition from an ambitious pilot to a reluctant hero illustrates the complexities of loyalty and betrayal amid a chaotic backdrop.
❤️
Love
Love is a central theme that evolves through Cliff's relationship with Jenny. Their connection flourishes amidst adventure but is tested by lies and misunderstandings. As they navigate the trials of espionage and danger, their commitment to each other ultimately becomes a beacon of hope and resilience.
✈️
Adventure
Adventure is at the heart of the storyline as Cliff becomes the titular Rocketeer. His thrilling escapades, from daring flights to explosive confrontations, reflect a quest for bravery and excitement. The spirit of adventure drives the characters to overcome challenges and seize opportunities in a rapidly changing world.
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
© 2024 What's After the Movie?. All rights reserved.