The Next Man 1976
Directed by
Richard C. Sarafian
Made by
Allied Artists Pictures
Plot Summary
Discover the intricate plot of The Next Man (1976). From unexpected twists to emotional highs and lows, this detailed summary breaks down every moment to give you a deeper understanding of the film’s story.
The film unfolds in November 1976, shortly after the Arab Oil Embargo of 1973–1974. A cadre of politicians in the Arab world endorses a radical agenda that includes imposing a ceiling on international oil prices. Within 48 hours of this initiative becoming known to the Americans and Russians, the three main figures in this group are brutally eliminated: the Kuwaiti is thrown from a window, the Saudi is shot dead, and the Tunisian, portrayed by Adolfo Celi, falls victim to seduction, drugging, and asphyxiation. In the first two murders, the assassins meet their end shortly after — one is dealt with by another hitman named Gregory Zolnikov (played by director Richard C. Sarafian in an uncredited appearance), while the bodyguard Hamid, played by Albert Paulsen, takes care of the other.
In this chaotic atmosphere, Khalil Abdul-Muhsen, played by Sean Connery, ascends to the role of Saudi Arabian minister of state, stepping up as the “next man.” He passionately addresses the United Nations, advocating for a “new global socio-political order” that includes a cap on oil prices, the exploration of alternative energy sources, international recognition for Israel, the establishment of a Palestinian state, and Saudi Arabian support for disadvantaged third-world nations. He concludes this pivotal speech by quoting Yasser Arafat’s 1974 UN General Assembly address: > “I hold neither a symbol nor a gun. My hands are empty. They reach out to you. Which of you will take them?” His police bodyguard quickly informs him that this bold declaration has elevated his assassination risk from a “C-minus” to an alarming “A.”
Simultaneously, Nicole Scott, the part-time assassin and Irish aristocrat portrayed by Cornelia Sharpe, travels to New York, where she arranges a meeting with Abdul-Muhsen at an evening gathering. Their flirtation continues at an auction, where despite being outbid for a snuffbox, Abdul-Muhsen wins it and gifts it to her. Their chemistry deepens over drinks and a game of backgammon, leading them to a spontaneous trip to the Bahamas to escape the harsh New York winter. However, their getaway takes a perilous turn when a group of commandos, masquerading as Palestinian terrorists, attempts to assassinate Abdul-Muhsen. With the help of Hamid and Scott, who chooses to save Abdul-Muhsen by taking out his attacker instead of fulfilling her potential hit, he narrowly escapes.
Returning to the UN, Abdul-Muhsen gives yet another fervent speech, declaring that Saudi Arabia is prepared to invite Israel to join OPEC. Meanwhile, Scott receives an urgent message from her handler instructing her with a single word: “Now!” Despite this, she hesitates. Abdul-Muhsen professes his love for her and encourages her to accompany him back to Saudi Arabia. As events unfold, the NYPD uncovers Zolnikov’s presence in New York. As Abdul-Muhsen and his entourage leave the Saudi embassy to head to the airport, their adversaries plant four suitcase bombs among the protesters gathered outside. Just as the bombs detonate around Abdul-Muhsen’s limousine, a crucial decision puts him in a different vehicle, thanks to his wise police escort. However, their car becomes ensnared in traffic. Hamid suddenly reveals a gun, commanding Scott, “Now. Kill him now.” In a shocking twist, Scott reacts swiftly—she shoots Hamid in the temple, then turns her weapon on Abdul-Muhsen, ending his life.
The movie closes with Scott navigating customs in London, concealing the snuffbox and revealing it as “a gift.” As she exits the airport, we see Zolnikov shadowing her, suggesting that her tumultuous journey is far from over.
Timeline
Track the key events of The Next Man (1976) with a comprehensive timeline. Perfect for understanding the sequence of major plot points, this feature offers clarity on how the story unfolds.
Arab Oil Embargo's Aftermath
In November 1976, the geopolitical landscape is unsettled following the Arab Oil Embargo of 1973-1974. This tense atmosphere sets the stage for radical movements within the Arab nations regarding oil pricing.
Radical Political Agenda
A group of influential politicians from the Arab world endorse a radical agenda that aims to impose ceilings on international oil prices. This shocking initiative suddenly elevates tensions between major world powers, particularly the United States and Russia.
Assassinations Begin
Within 48 hours of the radical agenda's announcement, chaos ensues with the brutal assassinations of the three key figures involved. The Kuwaiti is thrown from a window, the Saudi is shot, and the Tunisian is eliminated through a cunning plot involving seduction and drugging.
Elimination of Assassins
The assassins responsible for the murders swiftly meet their own fates. One assassin is killed by a hitman named Gregory Zolnikov, while the bodyguard Hamid handles the other assassin, showcasing a continuous cycle of violence within the power struggle.
Khalil Abdul-Muhsen's Rise
In the midst of the turmoil, Khalil Abdul-Muhsen is appointed as the new Saudi Arabian minister of state, marking a significant shift in power dynamics. He passionately advocates for reform and a 'new global socio-political order' at the United Nations.
Daring UN Speech
Abdul-Muhsen delivers a pivotal speech at the UN, promoting key issues such as a cap on oil prices, alternative energy, and a call for the international recognition of Israel. Quoting Yasser Arafat, he positions himself as a progressive leader, increasing his assassination risk.
Nicole Scott's Arrival in New York
Nicole Scott, an Irish aristocrat with a secretive background in assassination, arrives in New York. She organizes a meeting with Abdul-Muhsen, indicating the confluence of personal and political agendas amidst the chaos.
Escalating Romance
The chemistry between Abdul-Muhsen and Scott intensifies during their time together at an auction and over drinks. Their spontaneous decision to go to the Bahamas marks a significant development in their relationship, highlighting the stark contrast between personal connections and looming danger.
Assassination Attempt in the Bahamas
While in the Bahamas, Abdul-Muhsen's life is threatened by commandos disguised as Palestinian terrorists. With quick thinking from both Scott and Hamid, they successfully thwart the attempt on his life, further intertwining their fates.
Return to the UN
Abdul-Muhsen makes a triumphant return to the UN, announcing Saudi Arabia's willingness to include Israel in OPEC. This bold move not only escalates international interest but also signals the potential for considerable backlash.
Urgent Message for Nicole
As the situation heats up, Scott receives an urgent message from her handler for immediate action. Conflicted by her feelings and her mission, she grapples with the decision that could change everything, showcasing her internal struggle.
Final Assassination Order
As Abdul-Muhsen's entourage prepares to leave the embassy, adversaries set suitcase bombs among the protesters outside. The tension mounts as Hamid orders Scott to eliminate Abdul-Muhsen, leading to a climax of conflicting loyalties.
A Shocking Betrayal
In a thrilling twist, Scott unexpectedly shoots Hamid instead of Abdul-Muhsen. This act seals Abdul-Muhsen's fate as she turns her weapon on him, making a pivotal choice that reflects her internal conflict and the high stakes involved.
Scott's Escape to London
The film concludes with Scott evading capture and navigating customs in London. The snuffbox she conceals symbolizes her connection to the turmoil she has left behind, hinting at unresolved threads in her story.
Zolnikov's Ominous Presence
As Scott exits the airport in London, Zolnikov's shadow looms behind her, suggesting that her journey is far from over. The ending leaves a sense of foreboding and unanswered questions about the implications of her choices.
Characters
Meet the characters that bring The Next Man (1976) to life. Dive into detailed profiles of the cast and their roles, exploring their motivations, relationships, and arcs within the story.
Khalil Abdul-Muhsen (Sean Connery)
Khalil Abdul-Muhsen is a charismatic and ambitious Saudi Arabian minister of state, marked by his passion for advocating political reform and unity among nations. He embodies leadership and idealism, yet faces life-threatening situations as he speaks out against established norms. His complex relationship with Nicole Scott adds layers to his character, balancing love and the pressures of his position.
Nicole Scott (Cornelia Sharpe)
Nicole Scott is a cunning part-time assassin and Irish aristocrat, torn between her duty and her growing feelings for Abdul-Muhsen. Her character oscillates between seduction and survival, showcasing her resourcefulness in dangerous situations. Throughout the film, her conflicted loyalties culminate in a pivotal moment that defines her arc.
Hamid (Albert Paulsen)
Hamid serves as Abdul-Muhsen's loyal bodyguard, embodying strength and allegiance. His fierce dedication to protecting his charge ultimately leads to a turning point in the story, as he reveals a darker side under the pressure of impending danger. His character highlights the themes of betrayal and imminent danger in this politically fraught environment.
Setting
Uncover the settings of The Next Man (1976), from iconic locations to the time period that shapes its world. See how these elements add depth and context to the movie’s narrative.
Time period
November 1976
The film is set in November 1976, a period marked by geopolitical tension due to the aftermath of the Arab Oil Embargo of the early 1970s. This time saw shifts in global power dynamics, especially concerning oil prices and Middle Eastern politics, creating a fertile ground for the film's plot involving assassination and diplomacy.
Location
Saudi Arabia, New York, Bahamas
The movie primarily takes place in Saudi Arabia, where significant political maneuvers occur, and in New York, showcasing bustling urban life intertwined with international intrigue. The Bahamas serves as a brief escape destination representing a contrast to the underlying tension the characters face. These locales are characterized by their rich cultural backgrounds and are central to the unfolding drama.
Themes
Explore the core themes of The Next Man (1976). From its commentary on social issues to its emotional undertones, delve into the deeper messages woven into the film’s story.
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Political Intrigue
The film navigates complex political landscapes, highlighting themes of diplomacy and power struggles among nations. Khalil Abdul-Muhsen's rise to a significant ministerial position symbolizes the urgent need for change in a turbulent era. Additionally, the personal relationships intertwining with these political tensions add depth to the narrative.
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Betrayal and Loyalty
Betrayal is a crucial theme as characters grapple with loyalty and personal connections amidst their dangerous lives. Nicole Scott's struggle between her feelings for Abdul-Muhsen and her role as an assassin showcases the inner conflict and moral dilemmas faced by those entrenched in a life of deception. This tension drives the narrative towards a climax of shocking choices.
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