Conspiracy Theory, released in theaters on August 8, 1997, is a frantic and thrilling deep dive into the world of a man who believes he knows too much. The film introduces us to Jerry Fletcher (Mel Gibson), a loud, eccentric New York City cab driver who spends his days creating and sharing elaborate, often ludicrous, conspiracy theories.
While most dismiss him as a harmless nut, Jerry’s life is turned upside down when one of his theories turns out to be frighteningly accurate. A mysterious group of powerful, shadowy figures, led by the chilling Dr. Jonas (Patrick Stewart), kidnaps him and begins to interrogate him using terrifying methods.
Jerry’s only hope for survival lies with the one person who has patiently listened to his ramblings: Alice Sutton (Julia Roberts), a Department of Justice lawyer. Alice, who is still grieving the death of her father, initially believes Jerry is just an annoyance but is gradually convinced by his plight and the escalating violence.
As Jerry and Alice go on the run, a complex plot is unraveled, and Jerry’s seemingly random theories connect to a dark, real-world secret involving mind control and covert government operations.
Conspiracy Theory also features Steve Kahan, Cylk Cozart and Sean Patrick Thomas rounding out the supporting cast.
Julia Roberts in Conspiracy Theory (Photo/Warner Bros.)
Reception for Conspiracy Theory
Conspiracy Theory grossed $19.3 million on its opening weekend, finishing No. 1 at the box office, topping Air Force One, which pulled in $17.8 million in its third week of release.
The film grossed $137 million worldwide.
Roger Ebert gave the film two and a half stars in his review.
Legacy
Conspiracy Theory‘s legacy is a testament to its successful blend of action, romance, and psychological thriller elements. It was a commercial success upon release, capitalizing on the public’s fascination with conspiracy narratives in the late 1990s.
The chemistry between Gibson and Roberts was a major draw, providing a compelling emotional core to the high-stakes plot.
Director Richard Donner, known for his work on action films like Lethal Weapon, expertly balances the film’s breakneck pace with its more intimate character moments.
Conspiracy Theory is remembered as a quintessential 90s thriller that still holds up as an entertaining and surprisingly resonant exploration of paranoia and trust.
