Marlowe Synopsis & Review: Plot Summary

🎯 Quick Overview

😅 Plot Summary – Badly Explained

Liam Neeson grumbles around 1930s LA, gets hired to find a missing guy who’s probably dead, stumbles upon a complex web of Hollywood corruption, and mostly just looks tired about it.

🍿 Marlowe: Detailed Plot Synopsis

A Missing Lover and a Web of Deceit

In 1939 Los Angeles, Philip Marlowe, a down-on-his-luck private detective, is hired by the wealthy and alluring Clare Cavendish to find her missing lover, Nico Peterson. Peterson, a prop master at a film studio, is presumed dead, having supposedly died in a hit-and-run accident. Marlowe, however, is skeptical and begins to investigate, uncovering a complex web of deceit and corruption lurking beneath the surface of Hollywood’s glamorous facade. Marlowe’s investigation takes him through smoky nightclubs, opulent mansions, and the backlots of film studios, encountering a cast of shady characters. He navigates a world of gangsters, drug dealers, and powerful figures, all while trying to piece together the truth behind Peterson’s disappearance and presumed death. The deeper he digs, the more dangerous the case becomes.

Unraveling the Truth

As Marlowe delves deeper, he discovers that Nico Peterson was involved in far more than just movie props. He uncovers a drug smuggling operation, blackmail schemes, and hidden connections to some of the city’s most influential people. The investigation leads him to the Corbata Club, a high-end establishment with ties to illicit activities, and to Lou Hendricks, a notorious drug lord. Marlowe must navigate these dangerous waters while dealing with the conflicting agendas of Clare Cavendish and her mother, Dorothy Quincannon, a former film star with her own secrets. He finds himself caught between protecting his client and uncovering the truth, even if it means putting himself in harm’s way.

Betrayal and Revelation

Marlowe’s investigation culminates in a series of betrayals and shocking revelations. He discovers the real Nico Peterson is alive and has gathered evidence of widespread corruption involving Philip O’Reilly, a powerful studio head and soon-to-be Ambassador, and Clare Cavendish. A confrontation occurs, and the true motives of several characters are revealed, leading to a violent and fiery climax.

⚠️ Spoilers and Ending Explained

🎬 Cast & Characters

• Philip Marlowe (Liam Neeson): A world-weary private detective hired to find a missing man, uncovering a web of deceit and corruption in 1930s Los Angeles.
• Clare Cavendish (Diane Kruger): A glamorous heiress who hires Marlowe to find her missing lover, while harboring secrets of her own.
• Dorothy Quincannon (Jessica Lange): A former film star and Clare’s mother, who has her own agenda related to the missing Nico Peterson and studio power.
• Nico Peterson (François Arnaud): A prop master and missing lover whose disappearance sparks a complex investigation involving drugs and studio secrets.
• Joe Green (Ian Hart): A homicide detective and Marlowe’s friend, who is initially reluctant to investigate Peterson’s disappearance.
• Floyd Hanson (Danny Huston): The owner of the Corbata Club, linked to Peterson’s supposed death and illicit activities.
• Cedric (Adewale Akinnuoye-Agbaje): A henchman who becomes an unlikely ally to Marlowe, seeking a way out of his criminal affiliations.

💬 Memorable Quotes

• Philip Marlowe: “I’m too old for this shit!” – Marlowe says this after beating up two thugs, expressing his weariness with the violence.
• Philip Marlowe: “Fuck it!” – Spoken by Marlowe right before hitting someone with a chair, showing his frustration with the case.

💰Box Office

• Budget: €22,300,000
• Domestic Gross: $4,350,243
• Worldwide Gross: $6,377,603

💥 Marlowe Reviews

Personal Review

I really wanted to love this movie, especially with Liam Neeson taking on such an iconic role. The atmosphere was great, and the costumes and set design transported me right back to the 1930s. However, the story felt a bit muddled, and I wasn’t fully invested in the mystery. The scenes with Jessica Lange were fantastic – she totally stole the show! Overall, it’s a decent watch, but not one that will stick with me for long. I kept thinking, ‘Bogart did it better,’ which is tough competition.

• Who would enjoy:
  • “Fans of classic film noir.”
  • “Viewers interested in period crime dramas.”
  • “Those who enjoy Liam Neeson’s more subdued, dramatic roles.”
  • “Individuals interested in stories about Hollywood’s dark side.”
• Content warnings ⚠:
  • “Violence”
  • “Drug use”
  • “Some sexual content”
  • “Strong language”
  • “Mature themes”

Professional Reviews

• Variety: “While ‘Marlowe’ boasts a strong cast and impeccable production design, it struggles to capture the essence of Raymond Chandler’s iconic detective. Neeson’s portrayal lacks the necessary wit and cynicism, resulting in a film that feels like a stylish imitation rather than a genuine interpretation of the noir genre.
• The Hollywood Reporter: “Neil Jordan’s ‘Marlowe’ is a visually stunning but ultimately underwhelming neo-noir. The plot is convoluted and hard to follow, and the dialogue, while attempting to be sharp and witty, often falls flat. Liam Neeson’s performance is competent, but he doesn’t fully embody the character’s iconic persona.
• RogerEbert.com: “‘Marlowe’ is a beautifully shot and well-acted film, but it lacks the spark and originality needed to truly stand out in the crowded noir genre. The plot is predictable, and the characters are underdeveloped, leaving the audience feeling detached from the story.

Audience Reactions

The visuals are stunning and capture the essence of 1930s Los Angeles.: Most viewers appreciated the film’s aesthetic and attention to detail in recreating the noir atmosphere.

Jessica Lange delivers a standout performance.: Many people enjoyed Lange’s scene-stealing portrayal of the former film star.

Overall Consensus: While visually appealing and featuring a talented cast, ‘Marlowe’ ultimately fails to deliver a compelling and memorable noir experience due to a convoluted plot and a lack of originality.

Awards

🛠️ Behind the Scenes

• “The film is based on the novel ‘The Black-Eyed Blonde’ by Benjamin Black (a pen name of John Banville), not one of Raymond Chandler’s original Philip Marlowe novels.”
• “Principal photography took place in Dublin and Barcelona, standing in for 1930s Los Angeles.”
• “Neil Jordan, the director, is known for his work in various genres, including thrillers and dramas, bringing a unique perspective to the noir setting.”

🖥️ How to Watch Marlowe?

Marlowe is available for streaming on platforms such as Prime Video and Apple TV where you can rent or purchase the film. Check your local listings for availability on other streaming services. Physical copies of the movie, including Blu-ray and DVD, can be purchased from major retailers like Amazon and Best Buy.

🎥 Similar Movies

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

• The Big Sleep (1946): A classic adaptation of a Raymond Chandler Philip Marlowe novel, setting the standard for the detective noir genre.
• Chinatown (1974): A neo-noir film set in 1930s Los Angeles, exploring themes of corruption, greed, and deceit in a stylized and atmospheric way.
• L.A. Confidential (1997): A modern neo-noir that delves into the dark underbelly of Los Angeles in the 1950s, featuring complex characters and a twisting plot.
• The Long Goodbye (1973): Another adaptation of a Raymond Chandler novel featuring Philip Marlowe, but with a more cynical and subversive take on the genre.

🛒 Marlowe Related Products

• Raymond Chandler: The Big Sleep (Vintage Crime/Black Lizard): The first novel featuring Philip Marlowe, The Big Sleep is a must-read for any fan of noir and a great introduction to the world that ‘Marlowe’ tries to capture. A perfect companion to deepen your appreciation of the genre.
• LA Noire (PlayStation 4): An interactive crime thriller set in 1940s Los Angeles. Players step into the shoes of a detective, solving cases and uncovering conspiracies. Captures the atmosphere and suspense of the era.
• 1930s Men’s Fedora Hat Vintage Gangster Panama Hat: Perfect for completing a 1930s-inspired look. A classic fedora evokes the style of Philip Marlowe and adds a touch of vintage elegance to any outfit. Available in various colors.
• Whiskey Glasses – Set of 2 – Old Fashioned Cocktail Glasses: Elevate your cocktail experience with these premium whiskey glasses. Perfect for enjoying your favorite spirit while immersing yourself in the world of film noir.

🎧 Soundtrack

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

• “Coubanakan” – performed by Los Lecuona Cuban Boys
• “Jade Vincent’s songs (Original or cover)” – performed by Jade Vincent

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

🤨 FAQ

🔥 Bonus Content

Bruce Lee’s RARE ROLE Marlowe 1969 Clip 1

Whoa, check out this super rare clip of Bruce Lee in the 1969 Marlowe movie! It’s wild to see him in such an early role – totally worth a watch to see his beginnings.

PHILIP MARLOWE in TV & Film

Ever wonder about the history of Philip Marlowe? This video dives into all the different TV and film versions of the character, which is super interesting if you’re into the newest movie. Honestly, I had no idea there were so many!

Liam Neeson thinks a united Ireland may happen in his lifetime

Did you know Liam Neeson, the star of Marlowe, has some pretty strong opinions on Irish reunification? It’s a short but fascinating clip where he shares his thoughts – give it a look!

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