The Conspirator DVD
Starring: James McAvoy, Robin Wright, Tom Wilkinson, Evan Rachel Wood, Kevin Kline
Director: Robert Redford
Rating: 3/5
It has been four years since Robert Redford last sat in the director's chair, with Lion For Lambs is you are interested, but he has returned with The Conspirator.
Based on the true story and dramatic real life trial of those accused of the assassination of US President Abraham Lincoln, audiences will be gripped by this fascinating and tragic period in American history.
McAvoy stars as Fred Aiken, an eager, newly qualified Yankee lawyer in this dramatic film, set within the ominous backdrop of post Civil War Washington.
Aiken is convinced by his mentor Reverdy Johnson (Wilkinson) to act as defence lawyer for Mary Surratt (Wright), the only female accused of being involved in Lincoln’s assassination, and the focus of a tense struggle between justice and duty.
Robert Redford has assembled a fine cast to bring this story to the big screen and it is a very solid historical drama.
The major problem is that the film sees so desperate to give a correct historical account that the emotion of the characters and the story is sadly overlooked.
While there are great performances from the cast and the movie looks great it never packs that emotional punch - something which so easily could have been achieved given Mary Surratt's story and dilemma.
Redford does well to depict American as a torn nation after a bloody Civil War with casualties, suffering and anger on both sides.
It is engaging drama about a very interesting time in history but it just lacks that tension and major emotion - which is a real shame.
McAvoy puts in another very solid turn as Fred Aiken who goes against his beliefs to defend Mary only to build up an interesting relationship with her and he desperately seeks the truth.
Robin Wright plays a character who is equally torn as she fights to prove her innocence but without giving up her son.
Wright's performance is controlled and measured and really does show off the talents of this underrated actress.
You don't come away from the Conspirator disappointed as it is solid and beautiful looking effort from Redford - but you feel that it just could have been so much more.
The Conspirator is out now
FemaleFirst Helen Earnshaw