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Directed by
Jeremy Rush
Made by
Netflix
Discover the intricate plot of Wheelman (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.
An unnamed getaway driver finds himself in a precarious situation after picking up a BMW intended for a bank heist. Just as he begins his drive, he receives a call from his 13-year-old daughter, Katie, and struggles to connect with his associate, Clayton, who organized the job. Identifying himself simply as the “Wheelman”, he transports the crew to the bank while maintaining an air of mystery about his identity.
As the robbery unfolds, the Wheelman answers a call from the enigmatic “Handler” who has supposedly contracted the crew. The Handler instructs him to abandon the crew once they secure the money, warning him that they have been ordered to eliminate him at the drop-off. Following this ultimatum, the Wheelman takes off with the cash, which amounts to a staggering $230,000, while the crew is left behind in a chaotic scramble.
Following the Handler’s orders, the Wheelman begins counting the stolen money while being subtly followed by an ominous motorcyclist. Ignoring numerous threatening calls and sinister texts from an unknown source, he becomes increasingly wary. An unexpected call from Clay ensues, leading to a confrontation in which Wheelman accuses him of orchestrating a betrayal. The stakes rise when the Handler provides Wheelman with a location for a supposed hand-off, which he soon realizes is actually a drug deal.
Desperate to escape this treacherous situation, Wheelman reaches out to Clay, asking to withdraw from the job. However, Clay threatens to inform the Handler of Wheelman’s actions if he proceeds with his plan. Amidst this tension, the Wheelman receives alarming messages from his ex-wife, Jessica, Katie’s mother, which heighten his anxiety as the motorcyclist intensifies his pursuit. A bloody exchange occurs when Wheelman and Clay find themselves cornered by a rival gang, which leads to a shocking revelation: Clay had originally teamed up with the head of the West End gang, but was double-crossed by the new leader of the Philadelphia crime family who now seeks the stolen money.
Realizing he owes a debt to the West End gang for protecting his family while he was incarcerated, Wheelman takes matters into his own hands, urging Clay to escape town. However, faced with imminent death, Clay tragically takes his own life. The tension escalates when the Philly leader threatens harm against Jessica and Katie. In a frantic bid for their safety, Wheelman contacts Katie, directing her to a parking garage, and attempts to warn Jessica, only to hear her screams during her abduction.
In a shocking twist, the West End leader reaches out to offer assistance, formulating a plan to ambush the Philly gang. Wheelman carries out the plan but is confronted by a member of the opposing gang in a violent showdown, managing to successfully eliminate the threat. After discovering a tracking device hidden within the money bags, he incinerates the cash in an attempt to cover his tracks.
As the climax unfolds, Wheelman meets Katie, who had driven his Porsche 911 to the garage. He instructs her to go to her uncle’s house and await her mother’s call. However, defying his orders, she follows him to a rooftop where he prepares to face the Philly gang. In a clever diversion, Wheelman employs a Molotov cocktail, enabling Jessica to escape her captors.
In a nail-biting finale, Katie instinctively drives away, and Wheelman leads the gang into a carefully laid trap set by the West End crew, culminating in a dramatic confrontation that leaves the Philly leader dead. As peace is restored, Wheelman hands the money over and departs with Katie. They finally arrive at a restaurant where Jessica awaits, allowing a tender reunion to unfold as Wheelman watches the emotional moment between mother and daughter.
Track the key events of Wheelman (2017) with a comprehensive timeline. Perfect for understanding the sequence of major plot points, this feature offers clarity on how the story unfolds.
The Getaway Begins
An unnamed getaway driver, known only as the Wheelman, is thrust into a tense situation after picking up a BMW meant for a bank heist. He receives a call from his 13-year-old daughter, Katie, while preparing to transport the heist crew, adding personal stakes to the already dangerous mission.
The Heist Unfolds
As the bank robbery takes place, the Wheelman keeps his identity a secret while ensuring the crew reaches their target. The tension rises as he answers a call from the Handler, who warns him of a betrayal within the group and instructs him to abandon them after the money is secured.
Double-Crossed
The Wheelman finds himself in a precarious position when the robbery concludes successfully, and he makes off with $230,000. Following the Handler's orders, he drives away, leaving the crew behind amidst chaos while being pursued by a mysterious motorcyclist.
Threatening Calls
As the Wheelman attempts to count the stolen cash, he is inundated with ominous texts and phone calls from an unknown source. His anxiety deepens after a call from Clay, which leads to accusations of betrayal and raises the stakes for both of them.
Tension with Clay
The Wheelman desperately reaches out to Clay, wanting to withdraw from the job. However, threats follow as Clay warns him that the Handler will be informed if he tries to escape from the chaos surrounding them, tightening the noose around the Wheelman's options.
An Alarming Discovery
In a critical moment, the Wheelman receives alarming messages from his ex-wife, Jessica, that heighten his worry as the ominous motorcyclist continues to tail him. This adds a new layer of urgency to his situation, especially as he realizes Jessica and Katie are in potential danger.
Bloody Confrontation
A violent showdown occurs when the Wheelman and Clay are cornered by a rival gang. In this moment of desperation, revelations about alliances and betrayals come to light, revealing Clay's previous ties to the West End gang and his entanglement with the Philadelphia crime family.
A Tragic Ending
Facing imminent danger and the threat to his family, Clay tragically takes his own life, leaving the Wheelman grappling with loss and guilt. The stakes heighten when threats against Jessica and Katie are made, pushing the Wheelman into action to ensure their safety.
Desperate Measures
In a frantic bid to protect his daughter and ex-wife, the Wheelman instructs Katie to meet him in a parking garage while he attempts to warn Jessica about the looming threat. Unfortunately, he hears her screams as she is abducted, intensifying his desperation.
Alliance with the Enemy
In an unexpected turn, the leader of the West End gang reaches out to the Wheelman to formulate a plan against the Philly gang. With new information in hand, the Wheelman prepares to ambush his enemies, even as his personal stakes continue to rise.
Showdown at the Ambush
The Wheelman executes the ambush plan but faces a violent confrontation with a member of the rival gang. In a brutal struggle, he manages to eliminate the threat but realizes that danger still lingers for his family.
Covering His Tracks
Upon discovering a tracking device hidden in the money bags, the Wheelman makes a drastic decision to incinerate the cash to protect himself and his family from further pursuit. This act of desperation signifies the depths he is willing to go to for their safety.
Final Family Meeting
In a heartfelt moment, the Wheelman manages to meet his daughter Katie, who has bravely arrived in his Porsche 911. He instructs her to go to her uncle's house for safety, emphasizing the gravity of their situation even as she expresses her desire to stay with him.
Daring Rescue
The Wheelman cleverly creates a diversion using a Molotov cocktail, allowing Jessica a chance to escape from her captors. This daring act demonstrates his resolve to protect his family at all costs, showcasing his transformation from just a getaway driver to a protective father.
The Climax and Resolution
In a dramatic showdown, the Wheelman leads the Philly gang into a trap set by his newfound allies from the West End crew. The confrontation results in the death of the Philly leader, and as peace is restored, he hands over the remaining money and departs with Katie to finally reunite with Jessica.
Meet the characters that bring Wheelman (2017) to life. Dive into detailed profiles of the cast and their roles, exploring their motivations, relationships, and arcs within the story.
Wheelman (Frank Grillo)
The Wheelman is a skilled getaway driver entangled in a violent crime spree. He embodies resilience and determination as he navigates a series of betrayals while fiercely trying to protect his daughter.
Katie (Caitlin Carmichael)
Katie is the young daughter of the Wheelman, who becomes a symbol of innocence in a perilous situation. Her actions reflect loyalty and bravery as she grapples with the dangerous world around her.
Clayton (Garret Dillahunt)
Clayton is the orchestrator of the heist, whose betrayal adds layers of complexity to the plot. His desperate choices have severe consequences, showcasing his flawed nature.
Jessica (Wendy Moniz)
Jessica, the ex-wife of the Wheelman, is a caring mother entwined in the struggles of her family's safety. Her character adds emotional weight as her well-being and relationship with Katie are threatened.
Uncover the settings of Wheelman (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
The film unfolds in a contemporary setting, reflecting the modern-day challenges and dangers of crime and betrayal. The urgency of the storyline resonates with today's fast-paced world.
Location
Philadelphia
Philadelphia serves as the backdrop for the film 'Wheelman', characterized by its gritty urban landscape. Known for its historical significance and vibrant culture, the city offers a contrasting setting for the film's intense action and crime narrative.
Explore the core themes of Wheelman (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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Betrayal
The theme of betrayal runs deep as the Wheelman grapples with treacherous alliances and double-crosses. This theme is highlighted by the conflicting loyalties of characters, particularly in the relationship between the Wheelman and Clayton.
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Survival
Survival is at the forefront of the Wheelman's experiences as he navigates his escape while protecting his family. The stakes escalate with each twist and turn, demonstrating the lengths one would go to ensure the safety of loved ones.
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Family
Family is a central theme as the Wheelman's motivations are driven by his desire to shield his daughter, Katie, from harm. The complex dynamics between the Wheelman, Jessica, and Katie illustrate the importance of familial bonds amidst chaos.
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