Capote Synopsis & Review: Plot Summary

🎯 Quick Overview

😅 Plot Summary – Badly Explained

A flamboyant writer goes to Kansas, befriends murderers, and then cries because his book finally has an ending, but like, also, did he use them?

🍿 Capote: Detailed Plot Synopsis

The Clutter Family Murders

In November 1959, the Clutter family is brutally murdered in their rural Kansas home. The crime shocks the nation and captures the attention of Truman Capote, a celebrated New York writer known for his novella, ‘Breakfast at Tiffany’s.’ Capote sees the potential for a groundbreaking story and decides to travel to Kansas to investigate.

Capote’s Investigation Begins

Capote arrives in Holcomb, Kansas, accompanied by his childhood friend Harper Lee, who later gains fame for ‘To Kill a Mockingbird.’ They begin gathering information, facing initial resistance from the local community and lead investigator Alvin Dewey. Capote uses his charm and celebrity to gain access to the investigation, seeking to understand the motives behind the senseless killings.

Building a Relationship with Perry Smith

After the suspects, Perry Smith and Dick Hickock, are apprehended, Capote focuses his attention on Perry Smith. He cultivates a close relationship with Smith, visiting him in prison and gaining his trust. Capote sees Smith as a complex individual, attempting to understand his background and the circumstances that led him to commit the murders. He becomes deeply involved in their legal defense.

Ethical Dilemmas and Personal Toll

As Capote becomes more enmeshed in Smith’s life, he faces increasing ethical dilemmas. His desire to complete his book, ‘In Cold Blood,’ conflicts with his growing emotional attachment to Smith. The lengthy appeals process frustrates him, as he needs the killers’ fate sealed to finish his story. This creates immense internal pressure and takes a toll on his relationships and well-being.

⚠️ Spoilers and Ending Explained

🎬 Cast & Characters

• Truman Capote (Philip Seymour Hoffman): An ambitious and flamboyant writer who becomes deeply involved in the lives of two murderers while researching his groundbreaking book, ‘In Cold Blood’.
• Perry Smith (Clifton Collins Jr.): One of the murderers of the Clutter family, who forms a complex and intimate bond with Truman Capote.
• Nelle Harper Lee (Catherine Keener): Truman Capote’s close friend and confidante, a fellow writer who accompanies him to Kansas and provides a grounded perspective.
• Alvin Dewey (Chris Cooper): The lead investigator on the Clutter family murder case, who initially distrusts Capote but eventually develops a begrudging respect for him.
• Jack Dunphy (Bruce Greenwood): Truman Capote’s longtime partner, who provides emotional support and observes Capote’s increasingly obsessive behavior.

💬 Memorable Quotes

• Truman Capote: “It’s as if Perry and I grew up in the same house. And one day he stood up and went out the back door, while I went out the front.” – Capote says this reflecting on the parallels between his and Perry’s lives and their different paths.
• Harper Lee: “You didn’t really want to save him.” – Harper Lee confronts Truman, implying his self-interest outweighed his compassion for Perry.
• Truman Capote: “I can’t finish the book without knowing what happened in that house.” – Said to explain why he needs every detail of the crime.
• Alvin Dewey: “People here don’t cotton to strangers, Mr. Capote.” – The initial cold welcome Capote receives in Kansas from law enforcement.

💰Box Office

• Budget: $7,000,000
• Domestic Gross: $28,750,530
• Worldwide Gross: $49,327,405

💥 Capote Reviews

Personal Review

I was completely engrossed in ‘Capote.’ Philip Seymour Hoffman *became* Truman Capote; it was uncanny. The way he moved, spoke, even his expressions…it was all Capote! I felt like I was watching a documentary, not a movie. I also really appreciated the depiction of Harper Lee, as she provided the grounding force, and it made me wonder so much more about her, and her view of the entire situation. Seeing the hangings was absolutely gut-wrenching and left me feeling empty for days. I found myself thinking about the film days later, pondering the ethics of his actions.

• Who would enjoy:
  • “Fans of biographical dramas”
  • “Viewers interested in true crime stories”
  • “Those who appreciate strong acting performances”
  • “Readers of Truman Capote’s ‘In Cold Blood'”
  • “Individuals interested in the complexities of the writer-subject relationship”
• Content warnings ⚠:
  • “Mature themes”
  • “Some violent images”
  • “Brief strong language”
  • “Discussions of murder and capital punishment”
  • “Suggestive themes”

Professional Reviews

• Variety: “Philip Seymour Hoffman embodies Truman Capote with chilling accuracy, capturing the writer’s mannerisms and inner turmoil. The film explores the ethical complexities of Capote’s relationship with Perry Smith, raising questions about exploitation and the price of ambition. A haunting and thought-provoking film that lingers long after the credits roll.
• The New York Times: “Bennett Miller directs a compelling narrative, focusing on Capote’s moral descent as he manipulates the lives of those around him for his art. Catherine Keener delivers a standout performance as Harper Lee, providing a grounded counterpoint to Capote’s self-absorption. A captivating character study.
• Rolling Stone: “Hoffman’s performance is the heart of the film, a transformative portrayal that captures Capote’s wit, vulnerability, and darkness. ‘Capote’ delves into the psyche of a complex individual, exposing the high cost of fame and the blurred lines between truth and fiction. The supporting cast, including Clifton Collins Jr., adds depth to the narrative.

Audience Reactions

Philip Seymour Hoffman’s transformation into Truman Capote is mesmerizing and unforgettable.: Viewers consistently praise Hoffman’s acting and the film’s ability to capture the essence of Capote’s personality.

The movie delves into the complex moral questions surrounding true crime and the cost of literary ambition.: Many appreciate the film’s exploration of ethical boundaries and the impact of ‘In Cold Blood’ on both Capote and the Clutter family.

Overall Consensus: Capote is a well-acted and thought-provoking film that provides insight into the life and work of Truman Capote, particularly the creation of ‘In Cold Blood’. Philip Seymour Hoffman’s performance is universally acclaimed.

Awards

1. Academy Award (Best Actor)- 2006
2. Golden Globe (Best Actor – Motion Picture Drama)- 2006
3. BAFTA Award (Best Actor in a Leading Role)- 2006

🛠️ Behind the Scenes

• “Philip Seymour Hoffman gained 30 pounds for the role to physically resemble Truman Capote.”
• “The film was shot primarily in Manitoba, Canada, to replicate the stark landscapes of Kansas.”
• “Director Bennett Miller initially hesitated to cast Philip Seymour Hoffman, fearing he was too well-known, but Hoffman’s audition convinced him otherwise.”
• “Catherine Keener did extensive research on Harper Lee, including reading her letters and biographies, to prepare for her role.”

🖥️ How to Watch Capote?

Capote is available for purchase or rental on various platforms, including Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV, Google Play Movies, and Vudu. Check local listings as availability may vary by region. Some streaming services may also offer it as part of their subscription library. Keep an eye out for special offers or bundles to get the best deal.

🎥 Similar Movies

If you enjoyed Capote, you might like these similar films:

• Infamous (2006): Another biographical drama about Truman Capote’s investigation of the Clutter family murders and writing of “In Cold Blood”.
• Zodiac (2007): A crime thriller that focuses on the obsessive investigation of a real-life serial killer case, similar to Capote’s intense involvement with the Clutter murders.
• The Social Network (2010): Explores the complexities and ethical compromises involved in achieving great success, similar to Capote’s moral compromises.
• Monster (2003): Features Charlize Theron’s transformative performance as a real-life serial killer, similar to Hoffman’s portrayal of Capote. Explores the humanity of a killer.

🛒 Capote Related Products

• In Cold Blood by Truman Capote: The groundbreaking non-fiction novel that inspired the film, delve into the chilling details of the Clutter family murders and Capote’s captivating writing style. A must-read for true crime enthusiasts and literature lovers.
• Truman Capote: A Biography by Gerald Clarke: Gain deeper insights into the life of Truman Capote with this acclaimed biography. Explore his childhood, relationships, and literary career, providing a comprehensive understanding of the man behind the persona. It’s the book that the movie is based on.
• Infamous (DVD): Another take on Truman Capote writing In Cold Blood, starring Toby Jones, Sandra Bullock, and Daniel Craig.
• Capote [Blu-ray]: Experience the film in high definition with enhanced visuals and sound, bringing Philip Seymour Hoffman’s performance to life like never before. Includes special features with interviews and behind-the-scenes footage.

🎧 Soundtrack

Capote features a captivating soundtrack that enhances the movie’s atmosphere and emotional impact. Here are some notable tracks:

• “Hot Cha Cha” – performed by Bebo Valdés
• “Original Score Selection” – performed by Mychael Danna

You can find the complete soundtrack on Amazon Music and Apple Music.

🤨 FAQ

🔥 Bonus Content

Philip Seymour Hoffman Wins Best Actor: 2006 Oscars

See Philip Seymour Hoffman deliver a tour-de-force performance as Truman Capote, capturing his eccentric brilliance and the intensity he brought to the role.

Truman Capote Talks About In Cold Blood on The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson – Part 1 of 3

Dive into a fascinating conversation with the legendary Truman Capote as he discusses his groundbreaking book, ‘In Cold Blood,’ and the inspiration behind it.

Weekend Update: Truman Capote on Women’s History Month

Get ready for a laugh riot as Bowen Yang channels his inner Truman Capote in this side-splitting SNL skit.

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