The Big Sleep (1978)

Based on Raymond Chandler’s 1939 novel, The Big Sleep (1978) is a neo-noir film. Set in 1970s England, the story follows private detective Philip Marlowe as he is summoned to the lavish estate of General Sternwood. The general enlists Marlowe’s help to expose his blackmailer. During his time at the mansion, Marlowe crosses paths with the general’s spoiled daughter Charlotte and her spirited sister Camilla. As he delves into the case involving homosexual pornographer Arthur Geiger, Marlowe meets Agnes Lozelle, a worker at Geiger’s establishment, and Joe Brody, a man who has caught Agnes’ eye. It is during this investigation that Marlowe discovers Camilla posing for risque photographs and escorts her back home where she is welcomed by a grateful Charlotte.

After revisiting the crime scene, Marlowe is interrupted by gambler Eddie Mars, the owner of the house where Geiger’s body was discovered. His wife, Mona, has been missing and there are suspicions that she may have eloped with Rusty Regan, Charlotte’s absent husband. It seems that Mars holds some power over Charlotte due to her gambling debts. Meanwhile, Camilla attempts to retrieve her pictures from Brody, who now possesses them. Marlowe steps in but tragedy strikes when an unknown assailant fatally shoots Brody. Suddenly, a man named Harry Jones presents Marlowe with an offer. He is collaborating with Agnes who is willing to provide information on Mrs. Mars’s whereabouts.