The Conspirator is a decent movie that will keep you entertained for 2 hours. What it lacks is what every historical drama needs: emotional depth. The injustice of Mary Surratt's trial should have been brought to the forefront. The accused are nothing more than scraps and we aren't emotionally invested in what happens to them. While it's competent in plot structure, the gravitas of the subject matter should have pushed the accused, prosecution, judge to the brink and yet we never explore this side of the story. We never get to see the other accused throughout the process of Mary Surratt's trial and that cheapens the film. 6.5/10

This was about the injustice of what happened to Mary Surratt, and the lawyer who defended her. Everyone in this movie did a great job in their role, except for Justin Long. He just didn't look the part and seemed out of place. But it was such a minor role it didn't really matter. I thought the pacing was just right for a movie like this, and if they had tried to include more about the other accused, it would have felt too long. The movie had additional punch because it has disturbing parallels to today's world, showing that we haven't really grown much as a country in 150 years. We take pride in freedom, but when it's deemed necessary, those freedoms are thrown away for the sake of a quick answer. Then we try to make up for that and we can't because the country is almost constantly divided in beliefs, priorities, and policies. One side blames the other, and nothing gets done. Very disturbing how similar the end of this movie matches what's going on now.

9/10

The Conspirator is a solid courtroom drama as well as a solid period piece that gives a very telling tale of injustice and the fight for revenge instead of for what is right. The entire film does not throw into too many curveballs and is fairly straightforward, but director Robert Redford is able to keep it very compelling from start to finish. James McAvoy displays here why he is one of the best actors in the business today with his strong leading role. Other notable performances go to Tom Wilkinson, Evan Rachel Wood, and Robin Wright. The film is shot quite beautifully for a drama of its sorts as well. A nice little surprise. ***1/2