Cape Fear is a 1991 thriller film directed by Martin Scorsese and starring Nick Nolte, Robert De Niro, Jessica Lange, and Juliette Lewis. It is a remake of the 1962 film of the same name, which was based on the novel "The Executioners" by John D. MacDonald.
The film tells the story of Sam Bowden (Nick Nolte), a successful lawyer living in the fictional town of New Essex, North Carolina, with his wife Leigh (Jessica Lange) and their teenage daughter, Danielle (Juliette Lewis). Their lives are turned upside down when Max Cady (Robert De Niro), a menacing and vengeful ex-convict, is released from prison.
Cady was previously represented by Sam Bowden as his defense attorney in a rape case, and Cady blames Bowden for his conviction and subsequent imprisonment. Upon his release, Cady begins to stalk and torment the Bowden family as a form of revenge. His actions become increasingly menacing, leading to a suspenseful and psychological battle between the two men.
As the Bowden family attempts to protect themselves from Cady's escalating threats, the film explores themes of justice, vengeance, and the moral dilemma faced by Sam Bowden. The tension builds throughout the movie as Cady's relentless pursuit of revenge creates a sense of dread and danger for the Bowden family.
Robert De Niro's portrayal of Max Cady earned critical acclaim, and the film is known for its intense and suspenseful sequences. Cape Fear is a psychological thriller that delves into the dark and unsettling aspects of obsession, revenge, and the limits of the legal system.
Cast
- Robert De Niro as Max Cady
- Nick Nolte as Sam Bowden
- Jessica Lange as Leigh Bowden
- Juliette Lewis as Danielle Bowden
- Joe Don Baker as Claude Kersek
- Robert Mitchum as Lieutenant Elgart
- Gregory Peck as Lee Heller
- Illeana Douglas as Lori Davis
- Fred Thompson as Tom Broadbent
- Martin Balsam as Judge
- Zully Montero as Graciela
- Domenica Cameron-Scorsese as Dani's friend
Director: Martin Scorsese
Writers: Wesley Strick
Box Office Gross: $182,291,969
Distributor: Universal Pictures
Release Date: November 15, 1991
