The Conspirator (2011)

Like many people in their retirement years, Robert Redford's biggest pastime is writing letters to the editor. Unfortunately, his letters are two hour films. The Conspirator could have been a lot more than Redford ranting about injustice, but, unfortunately, it isn't. The story is told in a very heavy-handed sort of way, with no subtleties or grey areas. You never feel that this is an objective account of the trial of Mary Surratt. In addition, much of the movie is padding, making it fairly dull. Also, if you know your Civil War history, as I do, you know how the movie is going to end, meaning that there is no intrigue, and a sense of inevitability about it all.Decent performances though, especially from James McAvoy.

First and foremost this movie is a courtroom drama, but what sets it apart is the topic and theme. Set at the end of the American Civil War it examines the motivations behind the controversial trial of Mary Surratt. It shows us emotions and views of the US after 4 years of civil war. What started as a profound belief in fighting for an obvious cause by both sides has deteriorated into visceral hatred. As all normal convention as gone by the way in the name of war, so has justice, and the assassination of Lincoln and the trials thereafter are merely an extension of that war. I have noted some criticisms in other reviews, such as putting forward Surratt's innocence, or an inaccurate portrayal of the behaviour of the prosecution. The movie does no such thing, and such comments are evidence that the effect that the Civil War has had on American society has still not faded to this day. This movie excellently displays the effect of war on a previously just society.

This movie was intriguing and the setting, costumes, and actors were wonderful. Wright portrayed Mary Surratt in a way that showed the weight of the time and situation which she was in. The film gives insight on how politics and legal systems were in the late 1800s. I've always been fascinated with Lincoln, even as a child, so seeing the aftermath of his assassination was amazing. Before watching this film I had never heard of Mary Surratt and found the whole story to grab my attention from start to finish. Overall I think that this film was very compelling and sparks a greater interest toward the Civil War and Lincoln's assassination.

The movie was good for anyone with interest in history. It follows real events and keeps mostly to the actual story. A few things are added in to the movie, probably to make it easier to understand. I enjoyed watching The Conspirator. I thought the acting was good, the plot was not boring, and kept me entertained through the whole thing (which is difficult for some movies like this). It made me feel invested into the characters and made use of a flashback here and there to fill me in on what actually happened as opposed to what the characters were saying. Even though sometimes I was confused when was the present sometimes. Overall I was satisfied with the film.