Z (1969)

Directed by: Costa-Gavras

Based on the novel by: Vassilis Vassilikos

Starring: Jean-Louis Trintignant, Yves Montand, Irene Papas, Pierre Dux, Jacques Perrin, Charles Denner, Francois Perier, Georges Geret, Bernard Fresson, Marcel Bozzuffi, Julien Guiomar, Magali Noel, Renato Salvatori, Clotilde Joanno, Maurice Baquet, Gerard Darrieu, Jean Bouise, Jean-Pierre Miquel, Van Doude, Jean Daste, Jean-Francois Gobbi, Guy Mairesse, Andree Tainsy, Eva Simonet, Hassan El-Hassani, Sid Ahmed Agoumi, Raoul Coutard, Francoise Bonnot

127 minutes

(NR - adult language, adult themes, adult situations, violence)

Country of origin: France

PLOT:

In a mid-sized metropolis (population 500,000) in a right-wing military led country, a pacifist organization, which supports the opposition party in the government, is planning on holding an anti-military, nuclear disarmament rally. The organization's charismatic leader - the deputy - is scheduled to arrive in the town from the capital the day of the rally. Beyond the problems arranging the rally due to the probable incitement of violence at such a rally, the organization learns of an unconfirmed report that there will be an attempt on the deputy's life. The rally does happen, after which a three-wheeled kamikaze runs over the deputy, who eventually passes away from his injuries. The official report is that the incident was a drunken accident. In reality, the deputy's death was murder orchestrated by the secret police, the general for who likens the pacifist organization to mildew killing off agricultural crops. A magistrate is assigned to the case. Although he does have political views, he is more interested in finding out the truth, and as such has to wade through the political rhetoric and politically motivated testimony he hears. Thrown into the mix is a photojournalist who too is looking for the truth, as it, he believes, will make a great front-page story.

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