On November 16, 1959, Truman Capote reads about the murder of a Kansas family. There are no suspects. With Harper Lee, he visits the town: he wants to write about their response. First he must get locals to talk, then, after arrests, he must gain access to the prisoners. One talks constantly; the other, Perry Smith, says little. Capote is implacable, wanting the story, believing this book will establish a new form of reportage: he must figure out what Perry wants. Their relationship becomes something more than writer and character: Perry killed in cold blood, the state will execute him in cold blood; does Capote get his story through cold calculation, or is there a price for him to pay?

Mark Wahlberg was originally attached to play Perry Smith, but dropped out in August, 2004. He was replaced in October, 2004 by Mark Ruffalo until he dropped out as well.

Marella Agnelli:
So you think your book is worth a human life?

Anachronisms: Vacuum-formed yellow "Dollar General" sign visible as Perry and Dicky are being brought in by the police. The Dollar General name was not used until 1968.

Written by John Klenner and Al Hoffman
Performed by Mark Rubin Band