Anatomy of a Murder

Anatomy of a Murder

Year: 1959

Runtime: 160 min

Language: English

Director: Otto Preminger

DramaMysteryThrillerCrime

A seasoned lawyer, Paul Biegler, takes on the defense of Army Lieutenant Manion, who is accused of murder and claims self-defense. The case centers around an alleged rape of Manion's wife by the victim. During the intense courtroom proceedings, Biegler confronts a complex web of conflicting testimonies and hidden agendas. He must unravel the truth to determine whether his client acted in self-defense, while also uncovering a surprising revelation that challenges everything he thought he knew.

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Timeline & Setting – Anatomy of a Murder (1959)

Explore the full timeline and setting of Anatomy of a Murder (1959). Follow every major event in chronological order and see how the environment shapes the story, characters, and dramatic tension.

Time period

The film is set in a contemporary yet timeless era, allowing for a focus on the characters and their situations rather than specific historical events. This setting reflects the social dynamics and legal practices of mid-20th century America.

Location

Upper Peninsula of Michigan

The Upper Peninsula of Michigan is known for its picturesque natural landscapes, dense forests, and small-town charm. It offers a serene environment nestled away from urban bustle, making it an ideal backdrop for personal and legal dramas to unfold.

🏞️ Location 🏠 Small Town

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 19:31

Main Characters – Anatomy of a Murder (1959)

Meet the key characters of Anatomy of a Murder (1959), with detailed profiles, motivations, and roles in the plot. Understand their emotional journeys and what they reveal about the film’s deeper themes.

Paul Biegler (James Stewart)

Paul Biegler is a small-town lawyer with a sharp legal mind hidden behind a relaxed demeanor. His folksy charm makes him relatable, but he is deeply affected by past failures in his career. As he navigates a difficult murder case, his determination to seek justice drives his actions.

🔍 Lawyer 🧩 Complexity 🍂 Resilience

Laura Manion (Lee Remick)

Laura Manion is portrayed as a desperate and complex character whose actions and motivations blur lines of innocence and guilt. Her flirtatious nature complicates relationships, especially with Biegler, and raises questions about her credibility throughout the trial.

💔 Femme Fatale 🎭 Manipulation 🤔 Intrigue

Frederick "Manny" Manion (Ben Gazzara)

Manny Manion is a US Army lieutenant charged with murder, grappling with hazy memories of the incident. His defense hinges on the claim of temporary insanity due to provocation, forcing the court to confront themes of jealousy and rage.

🔫 Soldier 😡 Jealousy 👁️ Doubt

Claude Dancer (George C. Scott)

Claude Dancer is the tenacious prosecutor intent on ensuring that justice is served, employing high-pressure tactics throughout the trial. His character embodies the relentless pursuit of legal victory, posing significant challenges for the defense.

⚖️ Prosecutor 💪 Determination 🔥 Tension

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 19:31

Major Themes – Anatomy of a Murder (1959)

Explore the central themes of Anatomy of a Murder (1959), from psychological, social, and emotional dimensions to philosophical messages. Understand what the film is really saying beneath the surface.

⚖️ Justice

Justice is a central theme of the movie, exploring the complexities of the legal system and the moral dilemmas faced by those involved in a high-stakes murder trial. It highlights the conflict between law and morality, especially in the context of mental health defenses.

😔 Regret

The theme of regret permeates the narrative, particularly through the character of Paul Biegler, who reflects on his past choices and how they affect his present. The trial serves as a catalyst for exploring personal regrets that shape relationships and decisions.

❤️ Love and Betrayal

The film intricately weaves love and betrayal through Laura's flirtatious interactions and the underlying tensions with her husband. The dynamics between characters reveal how emotional entanglements can complicate the pursuit of justice.

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 19:31

Unlock the Full Story of Anatomy of a Murder

Don't stop at just watching — explore Anatomy of a Murder in full detail. From the complete plot summary and scene-by-scene timeline to character breakdowns, thematic analysis, and a deep dive into the ending — every page helps you truly understand what Anatomy of a Murder is all about. Plus, discover what's next after the movie.

Anatomy of a Murder Summary

Read a complete plot summary of Anatomy of a Murder, including all key story points, character arcs, and turning points. This in-depth recap is ideal for understanding the narrative structure or reviewing what happened in the movie.

Anatomy of a Murder Summary

Anatomy of a Murder Timeline

Track the full timeline of Anatomy of a Murder with every major event arranged chronologically. Perfect for decoding non-linear storytelling, flashbacks, or parallel narratives with a clear scene-by-scene breakdown.

Anatomy of a Murder Timeline

More About Anatomy of a Murder

Visit What's After the Movie to explore more about Anatomy of a Murder: box office results, cast and crew info, production details, post-credit scenes, and external links — all in one place for movie fans and researchers.

More About Anatomy of a Murder

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