The Manipulators

A lecture on Pavlov's Dogs. A room full of women being computer-tested for their typing skills. Two blokes, in a flat above a butchers' shop have been watching the young couple in the flat opposite, and their baby, taping their conversations. The couple's nerves are frayed. "They're getting close to breaking point" says one watcher. "Thanks to you" replies the other, more experienced watcher. As they continue to interfere, something terrible happens. One watcher wants to put a stop to it. His superior feels otherwise. But who, exactly is the manipulator and who is the manipulated?

Directed by Mike Hodges, The Manipulators leans on a strong ensemble — Stanley Lebor, Bryan Marshall, Brian Grellis — to carry a story that balances spectacle with character.

The film landed with audiences for its craft and performances, and remains one of the most talked-about thriller titles of 1972.