The Postman Always Rings Twice (1981)

Film Overview
"The Postman Always Rings Twice" from 1981 is a suspenseful romantic crime drama directed by Bob Rafelson. The screenplay by David Mamet is an adjustment of a 1934 novel by James M. Cain which has been remade in 2 earlier film versions, initially in 1946 and later in 1981. The film includes Jack Nicholson as Frank Chambers and Jessica Lange as Cora Papadakis in leading roles.

Plot Summary
The movie begins with Frank Chambers, a shiftless drifter who comes across a roadside restaurant in a rural area near Los Angeles. There, he satisfies Cora, a discontented young other half wed to Nick Papadakis, the much older and duller Greek immigrant who owns the restaurant. Frank and Cora's immediate attraction causes an enthusiastic and unstable love affair.

Desperate to be together and free from her tedious marriage, Cora and Frank conspire to murder Nick. Their initial effort proves not successful, landing Nick in the healthcare facility rather of the morgue. Undeterred, they ultimately be successful in their 2nd attempt, making it look like an awful mishap.

Events Post Murder
After the murder, the narrative shifts to the court where Cora and Frank are pursued their criminal offense. They are defended by a deceitful but clever legal representative, Katz. Katz, observing inconsistencies in their case, controls the situation, causing a stunning plea bargain. Cora pleads guilty to manslaughter charges, prevents a capital punishment, however ends up getting a suspended sentence.

Life After The Trial
Following the trial, Frank and Cora attempt to resume their lives and make their relationship work. However, regret, skepticism, and jealousy plague their relationship. This backdrop presents Madge Gorland, a middle-aged lady with whom Frank participates in a short-term affair. This affair creates more stress between Cora and Frank.

Climax & Conclusion
The climax arrives when Cora, driven by jealousy and not able to trust Frank, decides to leave him and the diner. Nevertheless, Frank, in an effort to reconcile, proposes that they go on a journey together. They triggered in high spirits, confessing their faults and when again promising love for each other. Just as they will evaluate their newfound willpower, they satisfy a deadly cars and truck accident. Frank makes it through, but Cora unfortunately dies.

In the end, Frank is implicated of killing Cora, the very same method they eliminated Nick. The movie closes with a twist revealing that the postman describing the title is symbolic of fate, which "always rings twice", indicating it delivers two blows; one to Cora and another to Frank.

Overall, "The Postman Always Rings Twice" captures a narrative full of dramatic twists turned by the hands of fate. The movie explores styles of lust, betrayal, and the consequence of actions through its intricate characters and their tragic romance.

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