True Memoirs of an International Assassin 2016
Directed by
Jeff Wadlow
Made by
Netflix
Plot Summary
Discover the intricate plot of True Memoirs of an International Assassin (2016). 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.
Sam Larson, portrayed by Kevin James, is a solitary figure who has penned a fictional novel titled Memoirs of an International Assassin, but he struggles to find the perfect conclusion, particularly the notable final line. By day, he endures the relentless demands of his boss, who insists he sacrifice his weekends and personal time for work.
After confiding in his friend Amos, played by Ron Rifkin, about his writer’s block, he is regaled with a bizarre tale of an assassin known as Ghost. This character, a Mossad operative, was recruited by the British in 1988 to eliminate a Venezuelan general before making a daring escape via helicopter. Despite the helicopter being shot down, the agent manages to survive, allegedly living in hiding. Inspired, Larson weaves these details into his manuscript. However, unbeknownst to him, the novel is subsequently published online by Kylie Applebaum, leading it to be falsely marketed as nonfiction under the title True Memoirs of an International Assassin. The unapproved alterations leave Larson feeling exposed, fearing that people may assume he is a real-life assassin.
Tensions rise as Amos, furious with Larson for disregarding his warning about the Ghost, confronts him. Amidst the unfolding chaos, Kylie arranges for Larson to appear on a live interview with Katie Couric. Overwhelmed by nerves, Larson falters midway through the segment.
His book skyrockets to bestseller status, drawing unwanted attention. Larson finds himself kidnapped and transported to Venezuela, where he meets the revolutionary El Toro, played by Andy García. El Toro mistakenly believes Larson’s novel is based on reality and presses him to carry out an assassination against Venezuela’s President Miguel Cueto, portrayed by Kim Coates. Initially met with skepticism by Juan, El Toro’s associate, Larson is taken to Caracas to spy on the President and devise a plan.
The CIA agents Cobb and Cleveland monitor the situation, dismissing Larson’s chances for survival. After a daring escape from Juan and an unexpected encounter with corrupt policemen—who turn out to be henchmen of gangster Anton Masovich—Larson finds himself saved by DEA agent Rosa Bolivar, played by Zulay Henao, who has been tracking the drug trafficking operations linked to Masovich.
As events unfold, Masovich pressures Larson into assassinating El Toro, threatening him if he fails to comply. Chaos ensues as General Ruiz, portrayed by Yul Vazquez, seeks to determine Larson’s true intentions while both CIA and military forces close in.
In a series of intense confrontations, Larson is forced to play both sides, developing a precarious alliance with Bolivar, who has her own vendetta against Masovich. Their plans go awry, leading to explosive confrontations where loyalties and lives hang in the balance. Ultimately, in a climactic showdown, Larson embraces his unexpected role as a hero, battling against the oppressive forces around him.
In a twist of fate, as Larson and Bolivar jump from a helicopter after defeating El Toro, they narrowly escape the clutches of General Ruiz, only to face one last threat: the true identity of the Ghost, revealed to him by Amos in a surprising act of heroism months later.
Fast forward six months, and Juan has ascended to the presidency of Venezuela, prompting concern from the CIA agents about his newfound power. As for Larson, he has ventured into new territories as a bestselling author, blending real experiences with fiction in his published works. During another TV interview with Katie Couric, when grilled about the authenticity of his stories, Larson laughs it off, declaring, “It’s just a work of fiction”—a testament to the wild journey he has endured.
Timeline
Track the key events of True Memoirs of an International Assassin (2016) with a comprehensive timeline. Perfect for understanding the sequence of major plot points, this feature offers clarity on how the story unfolds.
Sam's Struggles with Writer's Block
Sam Larson, a solitary writer, grapples with the challenge of completing his fictional novel, *Memoirs of an International Assassin*. His boss continually demands his presence, leaving Sam feeling drained and creatively stifled, unable to find the perfect ending for his story.
Amos Shares the Tale of Ghost
In an attempt to inspire Sam, his friend Amos recounts a captivating story about an assassin known as Ghost, who was an operative for Mossad in 1988. This tale adds depth to Sam's creative process, motivating him to weave these thrilling elements into his manuscript.
Publication of the Novel
Unbeknownst to Sam, his manuscript is published online by Kylie Applebaum, who falsely markets it as nonfiction under the title *True Memoirs of an International Assassin*. This unauthorized release launches Sam into the limelight but also instills in him a fear of being mistaken for a real assassin.
Tensions Rise with Amos
Arguments erupt between Sam and Amos as tensions peak over the unexpected publication of Sam's book. Amos is furious that Sam disregarded his warnings about using the Ghost story and the potential consequences of being perceived as an assassin.
Live Interview with Katie Couric
Sam is invited for a live interview with Katie Couric to discuss his bestselling book. Overwhelmed by the pressure and nerves during the segment, he falters while trying to maintain the façade of being a skilled assassin.
Kidnapped in Venezuela
As his fame rises, Sam finds himself kidnapped and taken to Venezuela by El Toro, who mistakenly believes Sam's book is based on real-life events. El Toro pressures Sam to assassinate President Miguel Cueto, thinking him a true assassin.
Initial Skepticism from Juan
Upon meeting El Toro, many in his circle, including Juan, express doubt about Sam’s supposed abilities. Nevertheless, Sam is taken to Caracas to spy on President Cueto, where he must navigate dangerous waters to survive.
CIA Monitoring Sam
CIA agents Cobb and Cleveland observe the escalating situation and dismiss Sam's chances of survival. They are unaware of his potential to play a pivotal role in the unfolding drama, leading to their underestimation of him.
Saved by Rosa Bolivar
In a twist of fate, Sam is rescued by DEA agent Rosa Bolivar, who has been monitoring the drug trafficking under gangster Anton Masovich. Her intervention is crucial, providing Sam with a desperate ally as he navigates this perilous world.
Threats from Masovich
Under pressure from Masovich, Sam is coerced into the assassination of El Toro, creating a dire situation that forces him to make troubling choices. The stakes have never been higher as he maneuvers through the web of deceit and danger.
Forced Alliances and Explosions
As confrontations intensify, Sam forges an uneasy alliance with Bolivar, each with personal vendettas against Masovich. Together, they execute daring plans, leading to explosive encounters where lives and loyalties are put to the ultimate test.
Climactic Showdown
In a final confrontation, Sam steps into the role of a reluctant hero. He battles against El Toro and Masovich, ultimately embracing his unexpected capabilities and facing the oppressive forces with newfound courage.
Narrow Escape
With Bolivar, Sam leaps from a helicopter, narrowly avoiding capture by General Ruiz. This thrilling escape signifies their triumph over El Toro but introduces a new danger regarding the true identity of the Ghost.
Juan Becomes President
Months later, Juan ascends to the presidency of Venezuela, causing concern among CIA agents. His rise to power signals a new era of uncertainty and potential danger in the region.
Sam's New Journey as Author
In the aftermath of his harrowing adventures, Sam embraces his new identity as a bestselling author. During his subsequent interview with Katie Couric, he nonchalantly dismisses inquiries about the truth of his stories, proclaiming them mere fiction.
Characters
Meet the characters that bring True Memoirs of an International Assassin (2016) to life. Dive into detailed profiles of the cast and their roles, exploring their motivations, relationships, and arcs within the story.
Sam Larson (Kevin James)
Sam Larson is a hapless writer who unwittingly becomes entangled in a deadly situation when his fictional work is mistaken for reality. Initially a meek character, he evolves throughout the movie, displaying newfound resilience and courage as he navigates his unexpected role in a world of espionage and danger.
El Toro (Andy García)
El Toro is a powerful revolutionary leader who mistakenly believes in the authenticity of Larson's book. This character exudes confidence and authority, driven by his mission against corrupt leadership. His ambition and impulsive nature drive much of the conflict in the film.
Rosa Bolivar (Zulay Henao)
Rosa Bolivar is a dedicated DEA agent whose strong sense of justice motivates her actions against drug trafficking in Venezuela. Her character is marked by intensity and determination, as she plays a crucial role in aiding Larson while pursuing her vendetta against crime syndicates.
Amos (Ron Rifkin)
Amos serves as a confidant to Sam Larson, providing him with stories that spark Larson's creative process. His character presents a blend of wisdom and frustration as he attempts to guide Larson, ultimately confronting him about the consequences of his actions.
Setting
Uncover the settings of True Memoirs of an International Assassin (2016), 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
1988, Present Day
The narrative spans across different periods, with a significant flashback to 1988 when the character Ghost was recruited as an assassin. The main events, however, unfold in the present day, highlighting contemporary issues of authorship, identity, and the repercussions of one’s past actions in a rapidly changing political landscape.
Location
Venezuela, Caracas
Venezuela is a country in South America known for its diverse landscapes and rich natural resources. The capital city, Caracas, is a bustling metropolis characterized by a mix of modern skyscrapers and historical architecture. Within this vibrant setting, the story unfolds as characters navigate the complexities of politics and power.
Themes
Explore the core themes of True Memoirs of an International Assassin (2016). 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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Identity
The theme of identity permeates throughout the film as Sam Larson grapples with the public's perception of him as an author versus the reality of his life. His fictional work leads to misunderstandings that blur the lines between fact and fiction. This theme explores the pressures of societal expectations and the search for self amidst chaos.
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Betrayal
Betrayal is a significant theme as loyalties shift unexpectedly among characters, particularly between Larson and those who initially support him. This theme unfolds through the intense interactions with dangerous allies and enemies that force Larson to navigate treacherous waters where trust is a luxury he cannot afford.
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Courage
Courage is exemplified by Larson's transformation from a struggling author to an unlikely hero. Faced with life-threatening situations, he must summon the strength to confront challenges head-on, culminating in a brave stand against oppressive forces. This theme illustrates personal growth and the ability to rise above fear.
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