Twelve Monkeys is a 1995 American science fiction thriller film directed by Terry Gilliam, based on a screenplay by David and Janet Peoples.
The film is inspired by Chris Marker's 1962 short film La Jetée. It stars Bruce Willis as James Cole, a convict sent back in time to gather information about a deadly virus that has devastated the human population, forcing survivors to live underground. The film also features notable performances from Madeleine Stowe as Dr. Kathryn Railly and Brad Pitt as Jeffrey Goines, earning Pitt an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actor.
The story is set in a post-apocalyptic future where a lethal virus released in 1996 has wiped out nearly all of humanity. In the year 2035, Cole is chosen to travel back in time to identify the source of the virus, believed to have been unleashed by a mysterious group known as the Army of the Twelve Monkeys. However, due to a malfunction in the time travel technology, Cole is mistakenly sent to 1990 instead of 1996, where he is arrested and placed in a mental institution. During his time there, he meets Dr. Railly and Goines, who may hold crucial information regarding the origins of the virus.
As Cole navigates through his time-traveling mission, he grapples with questions about reality and sanity. The film explores themes of fate, memory, and the nature of time, leaving viewers questioning what is real and what might be a product of Cole's troubled mind. The nonlinear narrative structure and psychological depth contribute to its status as a thought-provoking sci-fi classic.
Upon its release on December 29, 1995, Twelve Monkeys received positive reviews from critics and was commercially successful, grossing over $168 million worldwide against a budget of $29 million. It garnered several award nominations, including two at the Academy Awards. The film is celebrated for its intricate plot, strong performances, and Gilliam's distinctive directorial style, making it a significant entry in the science fiction genre.