Seven Days in May
Seven Days in May

Seven Days in May

1964
Movie
118 min
English

A U.S. Marine Corps colonel alerts the president of a planned military coup against him.

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IMDb7.5/10
Rotten Tomatoes92%
Metacritic78/100
Google Users89%
Director: John FrankenheimerGenres: Drama, Mystery, Thriller, War

Plot Summary

In a near-future America, a controversial treaty granting the Soviet Union significant influence over US nuclear weapons control is on the verge of ratification. Colonel "Jiggs" Casey, a respected Marine officer, discovers evidence of a planned military coup led by the charismatic General Irwin Scott. Casey and his associates race against time to gather irrefutable proof and expose the conspiracy before the coup can be executed, all while navigating a climate of deep suspicion and political intrigue.

Critical Reception

Seven Days in May was critically acclaimed upon its release, praised for its taut direction, compelling performances, and its prescient exploration of political paranoia and the fragility of democracy. It resonated with audiences for its thrilling narrative and the chilling plausibility of its scenario, solidifying its status as a significant political thriller.

What Reviewers Say

  • Praised for its suspenseful plot and strong performances, particularly from Fredric March and Burt Lancaster.
  • Lauded for its timely and chilling portrayal of a potential military coup and the erosion of democratic institutions.
  • Often cited as a masterclass in political thriller filmmaking.

Google audience: Audiences appreciated the film's suspense, political commentary, and the star power of its cast. Many found the plot engaging and thought-provoking, with particular praise for its tense atmosphere and historical relevance.

Awards & Accolades

Nominated for two Academy Awards: Best Supporting Actor (Edmond O'Brien) and Best Film Editing. Also received a Golden Globe nomination for Best Actor – Motion Picture Drama (Fredric March).

Fun Fact

Rod Serling, the acclaimed creator of 'The Twilight Zone,' wrote the screenplay, adapting Fletcher Knebel and Charles W. Bailey II's novel of the same name. Serling's involvement infused the film with its signature sense of creeping dread and moral ambiguity.

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TMDB Reviews

1 reviews
CinemaSerf

CinemaSerf

This is an enthralling political drama that pitches Fredric March ("Pres. Lyman") against the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff - Burt Lancaster ("Gen. Scott") in a battle for control of the United States. When an aide to the General - ...