A must see for anyone interested in the justice system.
Reginald Rose’s script commences entirely within a jury room. Twelve jurors weigh the fate of an inner-city teen accused of murder. Only Juror Number Eight (Henry Fonda) possesses reasonable doubt, citing unconvincing eyewitness testimony and unreliable evidence. The eleven jurors remaining contrive to convince him, but are soon swayed by Number Eight’s arguments.
12 Angry Men has a narrative that speaks in the light of each of our voices which matter. Due to our diverse personalities and different experiences, we can all bring something to the table in some shape or form. To put it simply, it is a story that claims we all have value. Prejudices are capable of blinding us and how foolish it is to stick to them despite all evidence to the contrary. The direction is somewhat surprising, as the single setting is made an asset. Given its constraints, it’s exceptionally cinematic. Henry Fonda delivers a credible performance – using reason rather than passion to persuade. The dialogue is filled with not only idioms and expressions, but also words that keep bringing to mind the case they are deciding. Not only are they deciding a murder case, but they are deciding whether or not a young man will be sentenced to death.
Ultimately, 12 Angry Men is a powerful drama; different from what you will have witnessed before. Treat yourself to this rare experience if you’re looking for something completely unique. It’s quite remarkable taking into account it is all talk and no action. No special effects or fancy gimmicks – just first class acting. An extremely good study of human character.
My 2nd favorite film of all-time!
Have you seen the TV film remake from the 90s?
LikeLiked by 1 person
No, I’m afraid I haven’t! I must check this out! Is it good?!
LikeLike
It’s…different, but still not bad to see. They update it by having some non-white actors. One of the things I don’t like is that they have a few people who are just as old as Juror #9, so he doesn’t stand out as the eldest in the room anymore.
LikeLiked by 1 person
This was definitely a very fun film. The writing was certainly a lot better back in the 50’s and I don’t think that a modern version would work quite as well.
LikeLiked by 2 people
Yes, it certainly was! Very well written. I agree, a modern version wouldn’t quite have the same effect. Thanks for reading!
LikeLike
Very great review. I haven’t seen this movie since school, but I think it’s time to revisit it.
In regards to some of the comments:I don’t think a modern version would have the same American optimism, but I would love to see someone really ballsy take it on. Especially with everything going on politically.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank You! Yes, I highly recommend you revisit this one, you won’t regret it! That’s a great thought – a director who could pull something like that off to modern day would be simply exceptional.
LikeLike
A great classic! Many old movies gets a little boring at some point but boy this movie was much entertaining.
LikeLiked by 1 person