The Conspirator

Synopsis

The Conspirator is a gripping historical drama centered around Mary Surratt, the sole female charged as a co-conspirator in the assassination of President Abraham Lincoln. Set in the aftermath of the Civil War, the film follows the efforts of young lawyer Frederick Aiken, portrayed by James McAvoy, who is appointed to defend Surratt amidst widespread public outrage and political tension. As Aiken navigates a military tribunal rife with bias and controversy, he uncovers complexities that challenge the assumptions about guilt and justice. Directed by Robert Redford, the film delves into themes of loyalty, legal integrity, and the turbulent path of American history during one of its darkest moments.

Cast

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  James McAvoy

  Frederick Aiken

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  Robin Wright

  Mary Surratt

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  Evan Rachel Wood

  Anna Surratt

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  Kevin Kline

  Edwin Stanton

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  Alexis Bledel

  Sarah Weston

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  Danny Huston

  Joseph Holt

Reviews

The Conspirator received mixed reviews from critics, reflected in its moderate ratings: 6.9/10 on IMDb, 56% on Rotten Tomatoes, and 55/100 on Metacritic. Critics praised the film for its compelling portrayal of a lesser-known chapter of American history and strong performances, particularly by Robin Wright as Mary Surratt and James McAvoy as Frederick Aiken. The Washington Post lauded the film for "its thoughtful examination of justice and the cost of conviction," appreciating the film's ambitious storytelling and production values. However, some critics found the pacing uneven and the narrative somewhat restrained, limiting the emotional impact. Variety noted that while the film "strives for a sober and sincere tone," it occasionally suffers from "a lack of dramatic tension." Rotten Tomatoes' consensus indicated that the film is "well-acted and historically interesting," but may not fully engage viewers expecting a more thrilling legal drama. Overall, The Conspirator is respected for its historical insights and earnest performances but divides opinion on its storytelling style and emotional resonance.