Classic Film Review- The Verdict
Paul Newman heads to court.
The Verdict is a 1982 courtroom drama directed by Sidney Lumet with a screenplay by David Mamet. It is based on the 1980 novel by Barry Reed. As of the writing of this review, I have not read the book so I will focus on the film.
Boston attorney Frank Galvin (Paul Newman) is an alcoholic after a career downturn. His old partner Mickey Morrissey (Jack Warden) sends him a medical malpractice case against a hospital that puts a patient into a coma. While researching the case, he meets Laura (Charlotte Rampling) and they begin dating. As they go to trial, they encounter the hostile Judge Holye (Milo O’Shea) who seems to favor defense attorney Ed Concannon (James Mason) and his team. Frank realizes that the case seems daunting, but when he gets to know the victim’s family, he decides to press on.
Mamet’s writing truly brings this story to life. He is one of the best screenwriters and you can tell by how he crafts this film. It is thrilling at each moment. The same is true of Lumet who was the right choice for this movie and he directs it with precision.
Newman is at the top of his game here. He was an actor that defined a specific era of Hollywood and that is made plain here. He is visceral as the alcoholic lawyer who is struggling to find a redemption he did not even know he wanted. It was an excellent performance and one that is often overlooked amongst his many other roles.
The rest of the cast does a fantastic job as well. Rampling truly shines in her role and steps into her part with grace. Mason is just as excellent. He provides a worthy trial attorney opponent who provides a worthy for before the jury. You also get frustrated with O’Shea as the judge, who seems to have it in for the protagonists.
I am a sucker for courtroom dramas and this one was a cut above. It was enthralling, engaging, and compelling. The plot meets you on a human level, showing you the dark side of life, but also the hope that can come in darkness.
Bottom line, The Verdict is fascinating, not just as a courtroom drama, but as a look into the human condition. Mamet brings it to life as a script and Newman displays the humanity of it.
PARENTAL CONCERNS: Foul language, Violence, Disturbing topics
FAVORITE QUOTE: The court doesn’t exist to give them justice? The court exists to give them a chance at justice.
Check out the trailer below:
What do you think? Let me know in the comments below. Tell me if there is a comic book, anime, movie, or novel you would like me to review.