Assassination (1987) Characters, Setting & Themes Explained

The story unfolds primarily across the United States, with key scenes inside the White House and during a cross-country chase. The setting centers on the corridors of power in Washington D.C. and various public spaces as threats emerge. This geographic scope underscores the clash between personal danger and national security typical of political thrillers.

• white house
• washington dc
• united states
• setting
• locations

The White House serves as the primary seat of power where the political conspiracy unfolds. It is where the First Lady's protective detail is based and where the stakes of national security collide with personal danger. The setting highlights the tension between public authority and private vulnerability.

• white house
• government
• political thriller
• power

A political conspiracy uses assassination attempts to manipulate public opinion and hide a deeper secret about the presidency. The threats originate from within circles of power rather than external forces. The film follows Killian's detective-like pursuit to uncover layers of deception and betrayal surrounding the presidency.

• conspiracy
• assassination plot
• political corruption
• deception

The movie reveals how political power is manufactured to sustain leadership, with the President's secret impotence and looming divorce being exploited by conspirators. Staged danger and media manipulation keep public opinion favorable and protect the presidency. The story demonstrates how political theater shapes a nation's fate.

• power
• image
• politics
• media manipulation
• presidency

The film explores the complex relationship between a protector and his charge, testing loyalty and resolve. Killian's professional code collides with Lara's independence, forcing both to adapt under constant danger. It examines the burdens of safeguarding a high-profile figure when every move can become a target.

• duty
• protection
• secret service
• loyalty
• first lady

Jay Killion is a veteran Secret Service agent played by Charles Bronson, recently returned from six-week sick leave. He is assigned to protect First Lady Lara Royce despite wanting the Presidential detail. His experience makes him a relentless and capable protector as he investigates the truth behind the assassination attempts.

• jay killion
• charles bronson
• secret service
• bodyguard
• protector

Lara Royce Craig is the First Lady portrayed as arrogant, condescending, and demanding, which complicates Killian's protective duties. She asserts her independence even as danger closes in, testing her public image. A looming divorce and political intrigue create additional stakes that threaten the presidency.

• lara royce
• first lady
• jill ireland
• president wife

The Zipper is a mysterious assassin played by Jim McMullan who becomes the central adversary in the plot to kill the First Lady. His elusive and dangerous presence drives much of the film's suspense. Killian must outmaneuver this threat to safeguard Lara while uncovering the broader conspiracy.

• the zipper
• assassin
• villain
• jim mcmullan
• threat

President Calvin Craig is portrayed as war-injured and impotent, a secret that his wife's potential divorce could expose. Conspirators exploit this vulnerability to maintain public support and secure another term. Killian's investigation uncovers how this hidden vulnerability motivates the political manipulation behind the assassination attempts.

• president calvin craig
• president
• political manipulation
• conspiracy

Assassination is an action-thriller featuring high-speed chases, explosive shootouts, and tense political intrigue. The film combines spy thriller elements with a 'hero vs villains' dynamic. Its fast pacing is driven by continuous cross-country adventure and frequent assassination attempts.

• action
• thriller
• spy
• political thriller
• car chase
• shootout