Capote

Capote

Year: 2005

Runtime: 114 min

Language: English

Director: Bennett Miller

BiographyDramaCrime

The acclaimed author Truman Capote becomes fascinated by the murder of a Kansas family and travels to the small town where it occurred. He develops a close, complicated relationship with Perry Smith, one of the accused killers, while investigating the crime and uncovering hidden truths about the community and its inhabitants. The experience profoundly impacts Capote, blurring the lines between reporting and personal involvement.

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Timeline – Capote (2005)

Trace every key event in Capote (2005) 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

Discovery of the Clutter Family Murders

In 1959, the bodies of the Clutter family are discovered on their Kansas farm, shocking the nation. This tragic event captures the attention of many, including the renowned writer Truman Capote.

1959 Kansas
2

Capote's Fascination

Truman Capote, upon reading about the murders in *The New York Times*, becomes deeply intrigued by the story. He contacts William Shawn, the editor of *The New Yorker*, to express his intention to document the harrowing events.

3

Journey to Kansas

Capote travels to Kansas and invites his childhood friend, Nelle Harper Lee, to accompany him. Their goal is to gather insights from those connected to the Clutter family, with Lee serving as a helpful intermediary.

Kansas
4

Dinner with Detective Dewey

In January 1960, Capote and Lee are invited to dinner by Detective Alvin Dewey after his wife, Marie, persuades him. During the dinner, Capote shares engaging stories, gradually winning over Dewey and gaining crucial access to the investigation.

January 1960 Dewey's home, Kansas
5

Apprehension of the Suspects

The mood shifts dramatically when murder suspects Perry Smith and Richard Hickock are apprehended. Capote, utilizing his charm, manages to secure visits to the prison where the suspects are held, eager to uncover their motives.

Kansas
6

Emotional Bond with Perry Smith

As Capote interacts with Smith, he forms an unexpected emotional connection. Capote shares his literary ambitions with Shawn, hoping to turn the horrific events into a full-length book despite ongoing legal proceedings.

7

Trial and Death Sentences

The trial concludes with both Smith and Hickock receiving death sentences. Capote’s continued access to them increases due to his dubious generosity, allowing him to delve deeper into their psyches.

Kansas
8

Capote's Compassion

Particularly concerned for Smith, who is in despair, Capote takes steps to comfort him, including feeding him baby food. This reveals Capote's complex feelings towards Smith, blending compassion with a literary pursuit.

9

Turbulent Relationship

As Capote continues to write, his relationship with Smith deepens, while his literary distractions, including a year in Morocco and Spain with partner Jack Dunphy, complicate his emotional involvement.

Morocco & Spain
10

The Legal Struggle

Capote faces frustration as he finds it increasingly difficult to obtain a definitive account from Smith regarding the night of the murders. The mounting tension culminates in Dewey's increasing anger and threats.

11

Smith's Final Confession

After much deliberation, Smith finally reveals the harrowing details surrounding the Clutter family murders to Capote. This moment also leads Capote to confront his own moral dilemmas in his role as an author.

12

Capote's Guilt and Regret

With the completion of Smith's narrative, Capote feels trapped by the legal proceedings, recognizing he cannot publish his account until they are resolved. He confides in Lee about his harrowing decisions and the regret they birthed.

Kansas
13

Moments before Execution

As Smith's execution date approaches on April 14, 1965, he urgently seeks a last meeting with Capote. Compelled by guilt and a heartfelt telegram from Smith, Capote returns to Kansas to face the grim reality of their situation.

April 14, 1965 Kansas
14

The Aftermath

In the wake of the trials, Capote struggles with the success of his book *In Cold Blood*, which brings him fame but also personal demons. This culminates in a battle with alcoholism that takes hold of his life following the publication.

1984
15

The Legacy

Capote's journey through the harrowing events of the Clutter family murders ultimately leads to both critical acclaim and deep personal turmoil. His inability to replicate his success defines the latter years of his life, showcasing the complexity of his legacy.

Last Updated: November 16, 2024 at 14:20

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Capote Summary

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Capote Summary

Characters, Settings & Themes in Capote

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Characters, Settings & Themes in Capote

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