The Conversation

The Conversation

Year: 1974

Runtime: 113 min

Language: English

Director: Francis Ford Coppola

DramaMysteryThriller

A surveillance expert's life is thrown into turmoil when he becomes convinced he may have inadvertently recorded a crime. As he investigates the incident and the mysterious woman involved, his meticulous world begins to unravel, leading him down a dangerous path filled with paranoia, intrigue, and unsettling questions about his own actions and the truth he seeks.

Warning: spoilers below!

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Timeline & Setting – The Conversation (1974)

Explore the full timeline and setting of The Conversation (1974). Follow every major event in chronological order and see how the environment shapes the story, characters, and dramatic tension.

Time period

Location

San Francisco, Union Square

San Francisco is a vibrant city known for its iconic landmarks and diverse culture. Union Square serves as a central gathering place, bustling with activity and surrounded by shops, theaters, and art galleries, making it a focal point for both locals and tourists.

🏙️ City 📍 Landmark

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 21:22

Main Characters – The Conversation (1974)

Meet the key characters of The Conversation (1974), with detailed profiles, motivations, and roles in the plot. Understand their emotional journeys and what they reveal about the film’s deeper themes.

Harry Caul (Gene Hackman)

Harry Caul is a skilled surveillance expert tormented by his past, particularly the three lives lost due to his previous work. His intense privacy and personal struggles create a complex character who battles guilt, paranoia, and a need for redemption.

🎙️ Surveillance 🤫 Guilt 🕵️‍♂️ Expert

Meredith

Meredith is a fleeting presence in Caul's life, representing both comfort and complication. She briefly shares intimacy with Caul, showcasing his struggle to balance personal connection with his guarded nature.

❤️ Intimacy 🔒 Guarded 🌌 Complexity

Martin Stett

Martin Stett serves as the ominous link between Caul and the Director, embodying the threatening aspects of his profession. His role as the Director's assistant reveals the darker side of surveillance, leaving Caul increasingly paranoid and isolated.

👤 Manipulation 📞 Authority 🎭 Deception

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 21:22

Major Themes – The Conversation (1974)

Explore the central themes of The Conversation (1974), from psychological, social, and emotional dimensions to philosophical messages. Understand what the film is really saying beneath the surface.

🔍 Paranoia

Paranoia is a central theme in 'The Conversation,' as Harry Caul becomes increasingly convinced that he is under surveillance. His guilt and past experiences amplify his sense of anxiety, leading him to question the motives of those around him and the ethics of his own profession.

🎭 Betrayal

Betrayal weaves throughout the plot as Caul uncovers the dark secrets of his clients. The revelation of the Director’s wife’s infidelity and the couples' scheme to murder him adds layers of treachery that challenge Caul’s moral compass.

🎷 Isolation

Isolation resonates deeply within Caul's character as he navigates his solitary life as a surveillance expert. Despite being surrounded by the noise of the city, he remains emotionally detached, leading to a profound inner unrest that heightens his sense of loneliness.

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 21:22

Unlock the Full Story of The Conversation

Don't stop at just watching — explore The Conversation 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 The Conversation is all about. Plus, discover what's next after the movie.

The Conversation Summary

Read a complete plot summary of The Conversation, 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.

The Conversation Summary

The Conversation Timeline

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

The Conversation Timeline

More About The Conversation

Visit What's After the Movie to explore more about The Conversation: 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 The Conversation

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Discover movies like The Conversation that share similar genres, themes, and storytelling elements. Whether you’re drawn to the atmosphere, character arcs, or plot structure, these curated recommendations will help you explore more films you’ll love.

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The Conversation (1974) Plot Summary & Movie Recap

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