The Conversation (1974)

Conversation, The (1974, USA) C-113m. *** D: Francis Ford Coppola. Starring Gene Hackman, John Cazale, Allen Garfield, Frederic Forrest, Cindy Williams, Michael Higgins, Elizabeth MacRae, Teri Garr, Harrison Ford, Mark Wheeler, Robert Duvall. Interesting, unusual drama, which Coppola made between his first two GODFATHER films. Hackman plays a self-conscious surveillance specialist, who records a dialogue which may include a reference to a murder. Soon he finds himself faced with the question whether to take actions or keep up his passive role. Regarded a classic by some, film takes too long to elaborate where it's going and is stylistically unexceptional, but becomes fascinating towards the end. Valid statement on privacy and personal commitment must have been especially telling in the light of the Watergate scandal. Coppola also scripted and produced.


BUY THE CONVERSATION ON VHS OR DVD

© Ron Altman