Directed by: Robert Redford
Grade: C+
I personally think that Robert Redford, director of the Conspirator, was so intensely focused in making his film feel so authentic, so genuine, that he forgot about most everything else that makes a film work. Indeed though, I must give the Conspirator the credit for its unfaltering authentic feel and historical accuracy. There is never a moment that loses a valid touch of make us feeling like we are really in the aftermath of the Civil War era.
The film opens with the assassination of one of America’s most beloved presidents, Abraham Lincoln, and then moves beyond that to encompassing the military trials of those accused in the assassination plot. The film pays particular close attention to Marry Surratt, the only woman among the accused, and her initially reluctant defender, Frederick Aiken, a hero of the war, who comes to believe in Surratt’s innocence.
Unfortunately, this is a historical picture that lacks a decently moving storyline, but is successful in its technical production value. This is a film that is well-made, well-shot and well-acted, and yet, what’s gravely missing is an upright ability to completely engage the viewer. I felt coldly distanced from the whole plot of the film. That’s a major problem right there.
Again though, the Conspirator is a technical success as it captures true authenticity. This is the first Redford-directed film I have seen, and I’m already keen to watching a couple of his previous, well-known pics like a River Runs Through It and the Horse Whisperer. However, I really could only recommend the Conspirator if you’re a fan of those historical dramas. C+
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