Review of The Conversation (1974) by Todd S — 22 Mar 2011

A masterful and deeply emotional thriller that ranks right up there among Coppola's greatest achievements. Critics have often compared the film to Antonioni's 1966 film 'Blow-Up', but I think this is a much smoother and more affecting work than that one.

Here, surveillance is explored just as precisely, but the story hits on a far more dramatic level. Gradually the film delves deeper and deeper into issues of loneliness, and Gene Hackman's extraordinary performance dares us to look at a human being at its most vulnerable; it's a performance that's all at once pitiable, disgusting, warm and sad.

This is a film that deserves patience and deep, critical analysis, but what's wonderful about it is that it hits a very primal emotional tone at the same time it stimulates the most intellectual parts of us.

Tight editing by Richard Chew and a haunting sound design by Walter Murch make this a totally overwhelming experience for all of the senses.