Cool Filmz: A review of Conspiracy Theory (1997) starring Mel Gibson

Richard Donner's Conspiracy Theory delivers all the intrigue and action a fan of conspiracy-themed narratives could ask for. This big-budget Hollywood production is packed with familiar thriller tropes, including covert government agents, awe-inspiring stunts, and high-energy chase scenes. If you're someone who thrives on tales of mind control, suppressed memories, and shadowy agents, this film will undoubtedly pique your interest - and as a writer of thriller fiction, I do like a good conspirachy movie. Keep in mind, I find conspiracies entertaining and not reality - but that is a whole other converastion, right? 

So right now I am smoking a cigar, sitting at Cigarro, my Thursday afternoon remote office and found an old review I did about this movie, way back in 2007. So, I can't say I have rewatched it since then, but I am committed to dusting off all these old reviews I originally wrote for a defunct website called Coverups.com. 

In Conspiracy Theory, Jerry Fletcher (played by Mel Gibson) is a New York City taxi driver who has an unsettling obsession with conspiracies. He firmly believes that the world is controlled by powerful secret organizations and is constantly sharing his theories with anyone who will listen. However, his life takes a thrilling turn when he becomes the target of a real conspiracy. When one of his theories turns out to be true, Jerry finds himself entangled in a dangerous web of government agents, mind control experiments, and hidden agendas.  (Note: No, he did end up in MAGA world — at least we think). 

At-A-Glance

• Director: Richard Donner
• Writer: Brian Helgeland
• Cast: Mel Gibson, Julia Roberts, Patrick Stewart
• Genre: Thriller, Mystery
• Release Date: August 8, 1997
• Runtime: 135 minutes
• Budget: $75 million
• Box Office: $137 million
• Ratings: IMDb: 6.7/10, Rotten Tomatoes: 56%
• Production Company: Warner Bros. Pictures
• Language: English
• Filming Locations: New York City, New York, USA

Along the way, he enlists the help of Alice Sutton (played by Julia Roberts), a Justice Department attorney who becomes both his ally and love interest. Together, they embark on a thrilling journey to uncover the truth and evade those who will stop at nothing to silence them.

As the plot unfolds, Jerry's own sanity comes into question, blurring the lines between reality and the conspiracy theories that have consumed his life. Conspiracy Theory is a gripping psychological thriller that keeps audiences on the edge of their seats, blending romance and suspense with a captivating exploration of hidden truths and the power of the human mind.

The story combines a blend of suspense and romance, clearly designed to appeal to a broad audience. Donner, best known for the Lethal Weapon series, smartly included a romantic subplot between Mel Gibson and Julia Roberts—an element that gives the film added mainstream appeal. 

While this may sideline the depth of the conspiracy theme, it keeps the movie entertaining and accessible. For dedicated conspiracy enthusiasts, though, the core elements of hidden truths and cover-ups remain engaging, even if slightly diluted.

The performances are as you'd expect from A-listers. Roberts is radiant, and Gibson brings his signature energy, portraying a paranoid, conspiracy-addled cabbie. Their combined star power ensures the film resonates with a wide array of viewers, including those who may not typically go for thrillers. Interestingly, it’s rumored that Gibson improvised much of his dialogue in the scene where he rattles off conspiracy theories—a fascinating touch for fans of the genre.

Although the Hollywood veneer adds a layer of gloss that sometimes detracts from the rawness of the central conspiracy, the film retains a certain charm. It’s a solidly crafted piece that will especially resonate with audiences who enjoy lighthearted thrillers with an underlying theme of hidden truths.

For viewers who frequent film blogs. like this one, Conspiracy Theory is a film worth watching—intriguing, entertaining, and filled with just enough hidden agendas to keep you hooked. That being said, it's not a great movie. 

So what did other critics think of it... 

• Roger Ebert described it as a "quixotic little indie production" with daffy dialogue and weird characters that create a sense of paranoia and offbeat humor. You can read more on Roger Ebert's website.
• Rotten Tomatoes highlights the film as fast-paced and exciting, effectively mixing drama, comedy, suspense, and a sense of triumph.
• Check out the reviews on Rotten Tomatoes. 
  Metacritic notes that while it's not a terrible movie, the dark, edgy idea is somewhat worn down by the star power of Mel Gibson and others. More details are available on Metacritic. 

All things considered, Conspiracy Theory earns a Queen—solid, appealing, but not quite the King it might have aspired to be. That's 3 out of 5 stars in more traditional terms. Of course, ratings are as personal as the cards in anyone's hand. What resonates with one viewer might fall flat for another. So, my advice to you is this: watch the film yourself and see what card it deals to you. Who knows? You might find a King or a Joker in this quirky, offbeat thriller. And who knows, you may even start to question if there's more going on in the world than meets the eye. But don't worry, we won't tell anyone you got hooked by a conspiracy theory. Your secret is safe with us and if anything it will help punch your credentials to serve in a high-level cabinet positoin with the U.S. Goverment one day.

Ten Intriguing Facts About Conspiracy Theory

Conspiracy Theory, starring Mel Gibson and Julia Roberts, is a thrilling ride through the world of paranoia and hidden agendas. Here are ten cool facts about the film:

1. Improvisation King: Mel Gibson improvised many of the opening scenes where his character, Jerry Fletcher, rattles off his conspiracy theories to unsuspecting taxi passengers. This added a sense of spontaneity and authenticity to his portrayal of a man with a mind full of interconnected ideas.
2. Based on Real Fears: The film touches upon several real-world conspiracy theories, including MKUltra, a real CIA program involving mind control experiments. This grounded the film in a sense of reality, making the fictional elements even more unsettling.
3. Brotherly Love: Donal Gibson, Mel Gibson's younger brother, plays the doctor who allows Julia Roberts' character to see Jerry when he's restrained in the hospital.
4. Earthquake Foreshadowing?: The film references a 7.3 magnitude earthquake on a southern coast during a Presidential visit. Coincidentally, a 7.3 earthquake occurred in Turkey in 1999, followed by a Presidential visit.
5. The "Crazy Credits": The end credits feature humorous disclaimers, a signature of director Richard Donner (known for the Lethal Weapon series).
6. A Script with Many Layers: The screenplay by Brian Helgeland (who also wrote L.A. Confidential) weaves together numerous conspiracy theories, creating a complex and intriguing narrative.
7. New York City as a Character: The film is set and filmed in New York City, with iconic locations like Central Park and the Chrysler Building featuring prominently.
8. Roberts Stepped In: Julia Roberts was not the first choice for the role of Alice Sutton. Several other actresses were considered before she ultimately took on the part.
9. Box Office Success: Conspiracy Theory was a commercial success, grossing over $137 million worldwide.
10. A Product of Its Time: Released in 1997, the film tapped into the growing anxieties of the late 20th century, with concerns about government surveillance, secret societies, and hidden agendas.