The film is set in Savannah, Georgia, and follows the story of John Kelso (played by John Cusack), a journalist from New York who travels to Savannah to cover a lavish Christmas party hosted by Jim Williams (played by Kevin Spacey), a wealthy antiques dealer.
During his visit, Kelso becomes intrigued by the eccentric characters and unique culture of Savannah. He strikes up a friendship with Williams and is introduced to the city’s social elite, including Williams’ colorful circle of friends and associates.
However, the idyllic atmosphere is shattered when a young hustler named Billy Hanson (played by Jude Law) is found dead in Williams’ home. Williams is arrested and charged with murder, leading to a sensational trial that captivates the entire city.
As Kelso investigates the murder and delves deeper into Savannah’s dark underbelly, he uncovers a web of deceit, corruption, and scandal. He encounters a cast of eccentric characters, including Lady Chablis (played by herself), a flamboyant drag queen, and Joe Odom (played by Paul Hipp), a charismatic hustler with ties to the local underworld.
As the trial unfolds, Kelso discovers that nothing is as it seems in Savannah, and everyone has secrets to hide. He becomes embroiled in a complex web of intrigue and betrayal, struggling to separate fact from fiction and uncover the truth behind Billy Hanson’s murder.
In a shocking twist, the true killer is revealed to be a member of Savannah’s elite, leading to a dramatic courtroom showdown and a startling revelation about the city’s dark secrets.
In the end, Kelso returns to New York, forever changed by his experiences in Savannah. The film concludes with a sense of ambiguity and mystery, leaving viewers to ponder the true nature of good and evil in the enigmatic city of Savannah.
“Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil” is praised for its atmospheric setting, intriguing characters, and gripping storyline. It offers a compelling blend of mystery, drama, and Southern Gothic elements, making it a memorable and thought-provoking film adaptation of John Berendt’s bestselling book.