Betrayed, released in theaters on August 26, 1988, delves into the dark heart of American domestic terrorism. The film stars Debra Winger as Cathy Weaver, a young FBI agent who goes undercover as a harvest worker to investigate the murder of a controversial Jewish radio talk show host.
Her mission leads her to the heart of America’s Midwest, where she meets Gary Simmons (Tom Berenger), a seemingly wholesome, widowed farmer and war veteran. Cathy finds herself falling in love with Gary and is initially convinced he and his community are innocent.
However, she soon discovers a horrifying reality: Gary is the leader of a ruthless white supremacist militia.
The film’s tension builds slowly but surely as Cathy uncovers the chilling truth behind Gary’s patriotic facade. The screenplay, penned by the provocative Joe Eszterhas, does not shy away from the ugly and unsettling nature of the group’s ideology and activities.
Winger delivers a powerful and vulnerable performance as a woman torn between her duty and her emotions, while Berenger is captivating as the charismatic and terrifying Gary. He perfectly captures the duality of a man who can be a loving father one moment and a cold-blooded killer the next.
The supporting cast is equally strong, with John Heard as Cathy’s concerned FBI handler, and John Mahoney and Ted Levine in memorable roles as fellow members of the extremist group.
Richard Libertini also has a small role as the murdered radio host.
Costa-Gavras (Missing, Music Box) directed the film.
Reception for Betrayed
Betrayed grossed $5.5 million on its opening weekend, finishing second at the box office.
The film would gross $25.8 million in its theatrical run.
Legacy
The legacy of Betrayed lies in its unflinching portrayal of racial hatred and homegrown terrorism, a topic that was rarely explored in mainstream cinema at the time.
While some critics found the plot implausible and tonally jarring, the film’s powerful performances and timely, unsettling subject matter have solidified its status as a provocative political thriller.
It remains a relevant and disturbing examination of how hate can fester beneath the surface of seemingly ordinary communities, serving as a dark reflection of a deeply rooted American problem.
Betrayed (Photo/United Artists)
