The film is set in the aftermath of President Lincoln’s assassination in 1865. Mary Surratt (played by Robin Wright) is a Confederate sympathizer and the owner of a boarding house in Washington, D.C. Her son, John Surratt (played by Johnny Simmons), is a member of John Wilkes Booth’s conspiracy to assassinate Lincoln.
In the climax, following Lincoln’s assassination, a massive manhunt ensues, resulting in the capture and death of Booth and the arrest of several of his co-conspirators, including Mary Surratt. Mary is accused of harboring and aiding Booth and his accomplices, despite her claims of innocence.
As the plot unfolds, Mary is arrested and put on trial before a military tribunal. She is represented by Frederick Aiken (played by James McAvoy), a young Union Army veteran and reluctant lawyer who is initially convinced of her guilt but gradually comes to believe in her innocence as he investigates the case.
In the resolution, despite Aiken’s efforts to defend her, Mary is found guilty and sentenced to death by hanging. Aiken appeals to Secretary of War Edwin Stanton (played by Kevin Kline) for clemency, but his pleas are ignored. On July 7, 1865, Mary Surratt becomes the first woman to be executed by the United States federal government.
The film concludes with Aiken reflecting on the injustice of Mary’s execution and the erosion of civil liberties in the aftermath of Lincoln’s assassination. He vows to continue fighting for justice and the principles of the Constitution, despite the challenges he faces.
“The Conspirator” is praised for its compelling performances, meticulous attention to historical detail, and exploration of themes such as civil liberties, justice, and the rule of law. It sheds light on a lesser-known chapter of American history and raises important questions about the balance between security and freedom in times of crisis.