The Postcard Killings Story Analysis: Plot Summary & Character Arcs
Deep dive into the narrative structure and emotional journey of The Postcard Killings.
Quick Plot Summary: Released in 2020, The Postcard Killings is a Drama, Thriller film directed by Danis Tanović, written by Andrew Stern. The narrative explores complex human emotions and relationships through detailed character development. As part of the The Postcard Killings Collection, it provides a scannable look at the movie's central conflict involving Jeffrey Dean Morgan as Jacob Kanon.
What Is the Story of The Postcard Killings?
This character-driven narrative explores the internal and external conflicts that define the human experience. After suffering a personal tragedy, and desperate for justice, Jacob Kanon, a veteran New York City police detective, embarks on the search for a twisted killer who is leaving a bloody trail of elaborate murders across Europe. The screenplay takes time to develop Jeffrey Dean Morgan's journey, allowing audiences to connect emotionally with their struggles and triumphs. Each scene builds upon the last, creating a cumulative emotional impact.
How Is The Postcard Killings Structured?
- Opening Hook: We meet Jeffrey Dean Morgan as Jacob Kanon in their ordinary world, establishing the emotional baseline before the inciting incident disrupts their life. Danis Tanović builds this foundation carefully, and over its 101-minute runtime, the pacing proves deliberate.
- Character Arc: The main character shows growth throughout the story, though some supporting characters could have been more fully realized. Jeffrey Dean Morgan's arc is present but occasionally predictable.
- Climax & Resolution: The emotional climax brings Jeffrey Dean Morgan's arc to its natural conclusion. Danis Tanović's direction provides adequate resolution, providing catharsis while staying true to the story's core themes.