An American Affair

An American Affair

Year: 2009

Runtime: 93 min

Language: English

Director: William Olsson

Drama

In 1963 Washington D.C., a young boy named Adam Stafford navigates the challenges of adolescence while the Cuban Missile Crisis fades from memory. His solitary world changes with the arrival of Catherine Caswell, a mysterious and alluring woman who moves in next door. Drawn to her enigmatic nature, Adam becomes increasingly fixated on uncovering her secrets, finding himself caught between youthful curiosity and the complexities of adulthood. His fascination leads him to confront the potential dangers of getting too close.

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Timeline – An American Affair (2009)

Trace every key event in An American Affair (2009) with our detailed, chronological timeline. Perfect for unpacking nonlinear stories, spotting hidden connections, and understanding how each scene builds toward the film’s climax. Whether you're revisiting or decoding for the first time, this timeline gives you the full picture.

1

Introduction to Adam Stafford

In the year 1963, we meet young Adam Stafford, a teenager living in the politically charged atmosphere of Camelot in Washington, D.C. Portrayed by Cameron Bright, Adam is a curious and impressionable young man navigating the complexities of youth while becoming entwined in a web of political intrigue.

1963 Camelot, Washington, D.C.
2

Adam Meets Catherine

Amidst the backdrop of Camelot, Adam encounters Catherine, played by Gretchen Mol. Catherine's passionate artistry and spirited nature captivate Adam, drawing him into her tumultuous world filled with secrets and intrigue.

Camelot, Washington, D.C.
3

Catherine's Scandalous Affair

It becomes apparent that Catherine is involved in a scandalous affair with President John F. Kennedy. Her romance is shrouded in secrecy, and she keeps a diary that hides crucial, cryptic messages related to JFK's covert operations, drawing Adam deeper into the situation.

1963 Washington, D.C.
4

Adam's Growing Concerns

Despite his parents' warnings about Catherine's dubious reputation and troubled past, Adam's fascination with her intensifies. He grapples with conflicting emotions, torn between his feelings for her and the concerns voiced by those around him.

5

Revelations of Catherine's Past

As Adam learns more about Catherine, he discovers her complicated history, including her recent separation from an ex-husband who worked for the CIA. This revelation casts a shadow over their relationship, as Adam becomes introduced to the darker aspects of her life.

6

Lucian's Mysterious Presence

A mysterious figure named Lucian watches over Catherine, his motivations and intentions shrouded in ambiguity. Inspired by the real-life antagonist James Angleton, Lucian represents the mystique and danger surrounding both Catherine and the political environment of the time.

7

Adam Discovers the Diary

While attempting to learn more about Catherine, Adam stumbles upon her diary. The pages reveal cryptic messages hinting at JFK's covert operations, leading Adam to realize the dangerous implications of the secrets she holds.

8

JFK's Assassination

The pivotal moment occurs when President John F. Kennedy is assassinated, shaking the nation and leaving Adam devastated. This tragic event intertwines with his personal turmoil, as he strives to make sense of the chaos unfolding around him.

November 22, 1963 Dallas, Texas
9

The Aftermath of the Assassination

In the wake of JFK’s assassination, the atmosphere thickens with grief and fear. Adam is left fragmented, struggling to cope with the reality of loss as the complexities of Catherine's life come crashing down around him.

10

Catherine's Chilling Discovery

The tragic conclusion arrives with the horrifying discovery of Catherine's lifeless body at the base of the stairs. This moment serves as a grim reminder of the repercussions of hidden truths and the chaos that ensues from unspoken lies.

Catherine's residence
11

Catherine's Historical Connection

As the story unfolds, it becomes clear that Catherine's character shares ties with the real-life story of Mary Pinchot Meyer. This historical connection enriches the narrative and adds depth to her tragic story.

12

Lucian's Role as a CIA Operative

Lucian Carver represents a fictionalized portrayal of James Angleton, a significant historical figure in the CIA. His presence in the story highlights the intertwining of personal lives with larger political conspiracies.

13

Reflections on Reality and Deceit

As Adam reflects on the events surrounding him, he grapples with the blurred lines between reality and deceit. The chaos instigated by hidden agendas leaves him questioning the nature of truth and trust in the world around him.

Last Updated: November 19, 2024 at 12:30

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The narrative typically follows an unsuspecting individual who stumbles upon a hidden truth. Their initial curiosity or innocence is gradually replaced by dread as they are drawn deeper into a web of lies, culminating in a revelation that often comes at a great personal cost.

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A young character's formative experience is defined by an encounter with a charismatic but tragic adult figure or a dark secret. Their fascination leads them to uncover a painful truth, shattering their worldview and forcing a premature, often sorrowful, maturation.

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These films are united by their heavy emotional weight and focus on the painful transition from childhood naivety to adult disillusionment. They share a somber, nostalgic atmosphere and a steady pacing that builds towards a poignant, often devastating, climax.

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An American Affair Summary

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