The Next Man

In November 1976, the geopolitical landscape is unsettled following the Arab Oil Embargo of 1973-1974. This tense atmosphere sets the stage for radical movements within the Arab nations regarding oil pricing.

A group of influential politicians from the Arab world endorse a radical agenda that aims to impose ceilings on international oil prices. This shocking initiative suddenly elevates tensions between major world powers, particularly the United States and Russia.

Within 48 hours of the radical agenda's announcement, chaos ensues with the brutal assassinations of the three key figures involved. The Kuwaiti is thrown from a window, the Saudi is shot, and the Tunisian is eliminated through a cunning plot involving seduction and drugging.

The assassins responsible for the murders swiftly meet their own fates. One assassin is killed by a hitman named Gregory Zolnikov, while the bodyguard Hamid handles the other assassin, showcasing a continuous cycle of violence within the power struggle.

In the midst of the turmoil, Khalil Abdul-Muhsen is appointed as the new Saudi Arabian minister of state, marking a significant shift in power dynamics. He passionately advocates for reform and a 'new global socio-political order' at the United Nations.

Abdul-Muhsen delivers a pivotal speech at the UN, promoting key issues such as a cap on oil prices, alternative energy, and a call for the international recognition of Israel. Quoting Yasser Arafat, he positions himself as a progressive leader, increasing his assassination risk.

Nicole Scott, an Irish aristocrat with a secretive background in assassination, arrives in New York. She organizes a meeting with Abdul-Muhsen, indicating the confluence of personal and political agendas amidst the chaos.

The chemistry between Abdul-Muhsen and Scott intensifies during their time together at an auction and over drinks. Their spontaneous decision to go to the Bahamas marks a significant development in their relationship, highlighting the stark contrast between personal connections and looming danger.

While in the Bahamas, Abdul-Muhsen's life is threatened by commandos disguised as Palestinian terrorists. With quick thinking from both Scott and Hamid, they successfully thwart the attempt on his life, further intertwining their fates.

Abdul-Muhsen makes a triumphant return to the UN, announcing Saudi Arabia's willingness to include Israel in OPEC. This bold move not only escalates international interest but also signals the potential for considerable backlash.

As the situation heats up, Scott receives an urgent message from her handler for immediate action. Conflicted by her feelings and her mission, she grapples with the decision that could change everything, showcasing her internal struggle.

As Abdul-Muhsen's entourage prepares to leave the embassy, adversaries set suitcase bombs among the protesters outside. The tension mounts as Hamid orders Scott to eliminate Abdul-Muhsen, leading to a climax of conflicting loyalties.

In a thrilling twist, Scott unexpectedly shoots Hamid instead of Abdul-Muhsen. This act seals Abdul-Muhsen's fate as she turns her weapon on him, making a pivotal choice that reflects her internal conflict and the high stakes involved.

The film concludes with Scott evading capture and navigating customs in London. The snuffbox she conceals symbolizes her connection to the turmoil she has left behind, hinting at unresolved threads in her story.

As Scott exits the airport in London, Zolnikov's shadow looms behind her, suggesting that her journey is far from over. The ending leaves a sense of foreboding and unanswered questions about the implications of her choices.