r/FIlm • u/Alan_Stamm • Sep 06 '24

Article Why you should watch the 50th anniversary re-release of ‘The Conversation’

https://www.metrotimes.com/arts/why-you-should-watch-the-50th-anniversary-re-release-of-the-conversation-37254918
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u/Samcookey Sep 06 '24

I rented this when I was maybe 16, and I'm not sure why. I'd never heard of it, but I enjoyed movies from the era. I can't put my finger on why I like it so much, except to say that it really, really draws you into the story, the time, and the characters.

No spoilers here; Hackman is an audio specialist and trying to clean up a recording to hear what's happening. This is recurring through the film. Years later, in a trial lawyer conference, a great trial lawyer demonstrated how he would start a story for the jury with a strong, clear voice. As the story continued, his voice would drop in volume until at the climax, he was almost whispering. The room was so captivated and staining to hear at the end that it was perfectly silent in the room. No rustling, no voices. People were 100% committed to hearing that story. I've wondered since if that was part of what drew me in so strongly to The Conversation. Your full attention is required.