What I’ve always found interesting is the fact that when this was initially released in Perth (Western Australia) during the 1970s, it was part of a double bill with The Parallax View.

This was rare – at the time double bills in the local cinema (as opposed to the drive-ins) were pretty much non existent. So why did this happen? Well, apart from the fact they were both films about paranoia, it linked the eavesdropping Nixon era with the assassination conspiracy one of the previous decade, when JFK’s murder was still up in the air. Perfect marketing for a bored 1970s audience sitting on the edge of the empire, I guess.

Pity Gordon Willis didn’t shoot both films – that might have provided some kind of underlying connection. Interestingly, The Conversation was shot by Bill Butler, the man who photographed Jaws. Any explainable connection, Dan?

I also like the fact his character in Enemy of the State is pretty much the same person

Excellent choice for a topic of conversation!

Not only does ‘The Conversation’ have at its core Gene Hackman’s best, most understated roles. The film is a treat for those who like to take the time and absorb its nuances and revel in the realm of suspense tinged atmosphere. And palpable paranoia delivered through quiet intimidation provided by Harrison Ford.

Hitchcock would have been pleased with Coppola’s efforts.

Oh, BTW. This film was ROBBBED at the Oscars!