1984, an adaptation of George Orwell's dystopian novel, stars John Hurt and Richard Burton. Released in 1984, the film tells the story of Winston Smith (John Hurt), a government worker who lives in London, which is now part of the totalitarian state of Oceania. Winston spends his days at the Ministry of Truth, where he erases historical records and replaces them with narratives approved by Big Brother (Bob Flag), the face of the party that controls Oceania. Winston meets Julia (Suzanna Hamilton) and the two fall in love, renting an apartment and enjoying life with each other away from the constant gaze of Big Brother. The government forbids romantic relationships, however, and the Thought Police soon arrest and separate the lovers. Winston finds himself in the Ministry of Love, where an agent named O'Brien (Richard Burton), whom Winston believed to be a fellow dissident, tortures him. Winston fights back, but he quickly learns just how difficult it is to resist Big Brother.moreless