Dad's Movie Lists
 

The Verdict (1982), Director: Sidney Lumet, rated R for language

Frank Galvin Has One Last Chance At A Big Case.

Film ClipStarring: Paul Newman, Charlotte Rampling, Jack Warden, James Mason, Milo O'Shea, Lindsay Crouse, Edward Binns, Julie Bovasso

DML Rating: ★★★★★★★★★★ - perfect

"All I wanted in this case is an even shake. You rushed me into court in five days... my star witness disappears, I can't get a continuance, and I don't give a damn. I'm going up there and I'm going to try it. Let the jury decide." – Frank Galvin

Why watch this? Paul Newman is spectacular in this tense, courtroom drama.

Plot Summary: Has-been lawyer Frank Galvin, facing the end of his career, receives an opportunity to handle a seemingly straightforward medical malpractice suit. Initially inclined to settle, he decides to take the case to trial against a powerful hospital and the Archdiocese of Boston, seeking justice and a chance at personal redemption.

Dad's Preview: Newman portrays a worn-down, broken, alcoholic lawyer who only takes on a medical malpractice case, just to make a quick buck. All is going fine until he starts really diving into the facts of the case. He uncovers a lot more than he, or the judge, ever expected him to find. It all culminates in one of the best courtroom showdowns on film. I really believe that this is Newman's greatest performance. He perfectly portrays a man broken, at the end of his rope, but finally resolved to take a stand and see that justice is achieved. It was nominated for five Oscars, but came away empty-handed.


The Zanuck/Brown Company; 20th Century Fox

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