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Cape Fear 1991

“Sam Bowden has always provided for his family's future. But the past is coming back to haunt them.”

★ 7.3/10 · 3,933 votes R DramaCrimeThriller Released
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Quick answer

What is Cape Fear?

The film "Cape Fear" is a thriller that centers around a small-town corporate attorney. The main character, a public defender, was previously assigned to the case of a convicted rapist, who was represented by the attorney at the time of his trial.

Type
Film
Year
1991
Status
Released
Runtime
128 minutes
Release date
Nov 13, 1991
Original language
EN
Origin
United States of America
Studios
Amblin Entertainment, Cappa Productions, Tribeca Productions
Budget
$35,000,000
Revenue
$182,300,000
Genres
Drama, Crime, Thriller
Updated
Availability by region

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Trailer

Overview

The film "Cape Fear" is a thriller that centers around a small-town corporate attorney. The main character, a public defender, was previously assigned to the case of a convicted rapist, who was represented by the attorney at the time of his trial. The attorney made an error during the trial, withholding a document from his client that could have potentially altered the outcome. The convicted rapist has since been released from prison and seeks revenge against the attorney and his family. The film's plot revolves around the cat-and-mouse game between the attorney and his former client, who is driven by a desire for retribution.

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Should you watch it?

“A vengeful ex-convict stalks the attorney who once buried evidence during his criminal trial.”

Reasons to watch
  • intense antagonist performance
  • high-stakes psychological conflict
Keep in mind
  • disturbing subject matter

Watch it if you enjoy suspenseful cat-and-mouse thrillers involving legal ethics and personal vendettas.

This film contains themes of sexual violence and psychological intimidation.

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Cast

Frequently asked questions

Who is the protagonist?

The protagonist is Sam Bowden, a small-town corporate attorney.

Who is the antagonist?

The antagonist is Max Cady, a man recently released from prison.

Why does Max Cady target Sam Bowden?

Cady seeks revenge because Bowden hid a document during his trial fourteen years prior.

What is Max Cady like?

He is described as a tattooed, cigar-smoking, Bible-quoting, and psychotic individual.

What is the central conflict?

The conflict centers on Cady's intent to terrorize Bowden and his family following his release from prison.