The Wall 2017

Drama

Thriller

War

Box Office

$4.5M

Runtime

88 min

Language

English

Directed by

Doug Liman

Made by

Roadside Attractions

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Plot Summary

Discover the intricate plot of The Wall (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.

U.S. Army Staff Sergeant Shane Matthews (John Cena), a skilled sniper, is deployed to investigate a pipeline construction site located in the harsh desert of Iraq, alongside his spotter, Sergeant Allen Isaac (Aaron Taylor-Johnson). The duo endures a tense 22-hour wait in overwatch before they determine that the area appears safe. However, as Matthews proceeds to examine the site, he is suddenly shot by an elusive Iraqi sniper.

In the chaos that ensues, Isaac attempts to save Matthews but is himself injured in the right knee, suffering additional setbacks as his radio and water supply are destroyed. Left alone, Isaac seeks refuge behind a precarious wall, where he tends to his injuries. The sniper, cleverly tuned into the American frequency, initiates contact with Isaac, masquerading as a high-ranking allied officer from another location. This deceptive ploy allows the sniper to extract crucial information from Isaac while maintaining his cover.

During this exchange, it becomes evident that the sniper does not embody the notorious figure known as Juba—a name associated with various Al Qaeda snipers infamous for videotaping their assaults on American forces. Isaac’s attempts to summon assistance from headquarters are thwarted when he realizes his radio antenna is damaged. While trying to fix it using parts from a deceased contractor’s radio, Isaac uncovers the sniper’s ruse: the earlier response team was manipulated into a trap designed to ensnare additional forces.

Eventually, Matthews regains consciousness and signals to Isaac that he is still alive. With determination, he begins to crawl towards his rifle amidst the swirling dust. Isaac engages the sniper with casual conversation to buy time. Convinced that the sniper hides atop nearby rubble, Matthews takes aim and fires. As the dust settles rapidly, the sniper retaliates, wounding Matthews in the left shoulder. Tragically, a second shot results in Matthews’ demise.

As the sound of approaching rescue helicopters reaches him, Isaac takes desperate measures. He pushes down the wall and uses Matthews’ rifle in an effort to flush out the sniper or at least provide the rescue chopper with information about the threat. The sniper fires at Isaac twice but misses. Now aware of the sniper’s position, Isaac fires his last remaining round and stands ready for the next shot. However, silence follows.

The helicopters land to extract Isaac and the fallen Matthews, but as they lift off, the sniper skillfully takes aim again, successfully shooting down both helicopters and claiming the lives of Isaac and the American rescue team. In the chilling final moment, the nameless sniper is heard over the radio, calling for another rescue, setting in motion yet another deadly trap to claim more American lives.

Timeline

Track the key events of The Wall (2017) with a comprehensive timeline. Perfect for understanding the sequence of major plot points, this feature offers clarity on how the story unfolds.

Deployment to Iraq

U.S. Army Staff Sergeant Shane Matthews is deployed to Iraq along with his spotter, Sergeant Allen Isaac. Their mission is to investigate a pipeline construction site in a harsh desert environment, as tensions rise around them.

Iraq

Initial Overwatch

Matthews and Isaac endure a tense 22-hour wait in overwatch, assessing the safety of the area. After this prolonged period, they conclude that it appears safe enough for Matthews to proceed with his examination of the site.