The Key Contemporary Conspiracy Thrillers

      Hasitha Fernando presents ten must-see conspiracy thrillers…

      Conspiracy thrillers represent a film sub-genre that began with classics like The Manchurian Candidate and The Ipcress File, achieving great success in the 1970s with hits such as Three Days of the Condor, All the President’s Men, Marathon Man, and Executive Action. These films primarily focused on the public’s general mistrust of their governments and the questionable actions they were allowed to undertake. Drawing inspiration from the provocative filmmaking of that era and the anti-government sentiments they portrayed, a new wave of filmmakers has produced outstanding modern conspiracy thrillers in the years since, and here are the key titles…

      JFK (1991)

      Oliver Stone’s JFK can be considered the ultimate modern conspiracy thriller. It is grand in scale and ambitious in its subject matter, effectively captivating the audience for its impressive 188-minute duration. Adapted from Jim Garrison’s book On the Trail of the Assassin and Jim Marrs’ novel Crossfire: The Plot That Killed Kennedy, the narrative follows district attorney Jim Garrison’s investigation into John F. Kennedy’s assassination, rejecting the lone gunman theory in favor of a complex conspiracy. Featuring a star-studded cast led by Kevin Costner and supported by Tommy Lee Jones, Gary Oldman, Joe Pesci, and Donald Sutherland, this film is a contemporary masterpiece not to be missed.

      The Fugitive (1993)

      The film version of the popular TV series, starring Harrison Ford and featuring Tommy Lee Jones, was a significant success with both critics and the audience upon release. Jones’ performance garnered widespread praise, earning him the Best Supporting Actor award at various ceremonies. Like the television show, the film primarily follows Dr. Richard Kimble, wrongly accused and on the run from the law, as he seeks the true killer—a one-armed man. However, it is the intelligent subplot woven into the central storyline that elevates this film to a thought-provoking experience. A superb action thriller, The Fugitive is essential viewing.

      Enemy of the State (1998)

      A gripping political thriller influenced by films like Brian de Palma’s Blow Out and Francis Ford Coppola’s The Conversation, Enemy of the State features strong performances from Will Smith and Gene Hackman, along with a brilliant original script by David Marconi. The suspenseful plot foreshadows the contentious policies emerging in the wake of 9/11, leading viewers to question if 'the end justifies the means' concerning national security. As relevant now as it was two decades ago, Enemy of the State stands out as a unique conspiracy thriller.

      The Bourne Identity (2002)

      The first installment in the acclaimed action franchise, The Bourne Identity sparked renewed interest in conspiracy thrillers while introducing a new action hero, Matt Damon. A loose adaptation of Robert Ludlum’s influential 80s spy novel, the film capitalizes on post-9/11 paranoia by delving into a broader government conspiracy involving spies and their illicit operations overseas. This reimagined tale serves as both a timely political critique and an exhilarating action film that offers significant rewatch value. Don’t forget to check out the sequels as well.

      Captain America: The Winter Soldier (2014)

      While Captain America: The First Avenger was a pulp-inspired action adventure, its sequel took a different direction. Directors Joe and Anthony Russo stated during production that Captain America: The Winter Soldier would unfold like a classic conspiracy thriller, heavily influenced by films such as Three Days of the Condor and All the President’s Men, and they certainly delivered on that promise. This cerebral superhero blockbuster manages to blend sociopolitical commentary, an engaging narrative, and thrilling action.

      Conspiracy Theory (1997)

      It would be impossible to compile a list of modern conspiracy thrillers without including this film. Starring Mel Gibson as a cab driver who sells conspiracy theories, the film takes a turn when one of his outrageous beliefs turns out to be true. Written by Brian Helgeland of L.A. Confidential fame, this entertaining story keeps viewers guessing throughout, showcasing an unhinged performance by Gibson. So, don your tin foil hats and give this film a watch if you haven't already.

      The Manchurian Candidate (2004)

      This remake of the 1962 classic, directed by Jonathan Demme, replaces the communist backdrop of the original novel with a sinister multinational corporation and substitutes the Korean War for the Gulf War. Despite these changes, the fundamental themes and overall story arc remain consistent. With powerful performances from stars like Denzel Washington, Meryl Streep, Jon Voight, and Liev Schreiber, this film is thoroughly engaging and worth your time.

      The Insider (1999)

      Though it may not delve into government conspiracies, The Insider presents a chilling narrative. It features a passionate TV producer for 60 Minutes working alongside a corporate executive to expose the tobacco industry. Al Pacino and Russell Crowe deliver mesmerizing performances