The Pelican Brief

The Pelican Brief

Year: 1993

Runtime: 141 min

Language: English

Director: Alan J. Pakula

DramaMysteryThrillerRomanceCrime

While researching Supreme Court assassinations, law student Darby Freeman unknowingly uncovers a dangerous secret. When her mentor is murdered, she realizes she’s become a target and flees for her life. In New Orleans, she finds an unexpected ally in a journalist, and together they work to expose a vast conspiracy and corruption that implicates powerful figures within the government, all while trying to stay one step ahead of the relentless killers pursuing them.

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Timeline & Setting – The Pelican Brief (1993)

Explore the full timeline and setting of The Pelican Brief (1993). Follow every major event in chronological order and see how the environment shapes the story, characters, and dramatic tension.

Time period

The movie is set in contemporary times, capturing the tension and urgency of the legal and political landscape. This period reflects societal issues regarding corruption, justice advocacy, and the influence of powerful corporations in political decisions.

Location

New York City, Washington D.C.

New York City serves as a bustling hub for media and law, where critical information about the assassination plot unfolds. Washington D.C. is the backdrop for political power plays and legal maneuverings, known for being the center of governance in the U.S., including the Supreme Court and the powerful oil lobby.

🌆 City ⚖️ Justice

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 22:54

Main Characters – The Pelican Brief (1993)

Meet the key characters of The Pelican Brief (1993), with detailed profiles, motivations, and roles in the plot. Understand their emotional journeys and what they reveal about the film’s deeper themes.

Darby Shaw

Darby Shaw is a determined and intelligent law student whose investigative skills lead her to uncover a dangerous conspiracy. Her character embodies resilience and courage, as she transforms from a sheltered academic into a key player in a life-threatening legal battle.

👩‍⚖️ Law Student 🔬 Investigator 💔 Loss

Thomas Callahan

Thomas Callahan is Darby’s mentor and lover, a wise and experienced law professor who aids her in her investigation. His tragic death serves as a catalyst for Darby's transformation, highlighting themes of love, loss, and sacrifice.

👨‍🏫 Professor ❤️ Mentor ⚖️ Justice

Gray Grantham

Gray Grantham is an ambitious reporter who aids Darby in exposing the conspiracy surrounding the assassinations. His dedication and journalistic integrity showcase the importance of accountability and truth in the media.

📰 Journalist 👁️ Observer 🤝 Ally

Victor Mattiece

Victor Mattiece is the oil magnate whose greed drives the plot's central conflict. He exemplifies the corrupting influence of power and wealth, willing to resort to heinous acts to achieve his objectives.

💰 Tycoon 🔪 Villain 🎩 Manipulator

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 22:54

Major Themes – The Pelican Brief (1993)

Explore the central themes of The Pelican Brief (1993), from psychological, social, and emotional dimensions to philosophical messages. Understand what the film is really saying beneath the surface.

🔍 Justice

The theme of justice permeates the narrative, showcasing a law student's quest to understand the motivations behind brutal political killings. It highlights the pursuit of truth despite overwhelming odds and the dangerous ramifications of exposing corruption in high places.

💼 Corruption

Corruption is a central theme, as powerful individuals manipulate the justice system for personal gain. The film reveals the dark intersection between wealth, politics, and the undermining of democratic principles, as represented by the oil tycoon’s influence over judicial outcomes.

🔗 Betrayal

Betrayal echoes throughout the story, with characters experiencing profound losses and mistrust. The deaths of key figures and the duplicitous nature of powerful attorneys illustrate how deep personal and professional loyalties can be shattered in the pursuit of power.

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 22:54

Unlock the Full Story of The Pelican Brief

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

The Pelican Brief Summary

Read a complete plot summary of The Pelican Brief, 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 Pelican Brief Summary

The Pelican Brief Timeline

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The Pelican Brief Timeline

More About The Pelican Brief

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More About The Pelican Brief

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