The Verdict

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Plot: An alcoholic lawyer, named Frank Galvin, whose only income is making money off of being an "ambulance chaser" has his life changed when his friend Micky Morrissey gives him an "easy" case. The case is a woman who is brain dead thanks to the negligence of a doctor. Frank is ready to pick up his settlement check to keep this horrific news out of the papers and the hospital's name clear, until his conscience changes his mind. Frank now has to fight a major hospital and an esteemed law firm in order to appease his morality and perhaps give himself honor.

Characters/Actors of Note: 

Paul Newman playing Frank Galvin: This character was quite interesting. He was going to funerals begging for cases, his office was a mess, and he was essentially alone. The watcher learns what his back story was that caused his alcoholism and lack of hope in the justice system. Paul Newman's voice has more low tones to it, giving this character a grave mood. I enjoyed the end of this movie as he trades places with someone that sued to be as desperate as him, which makes the watcher understand that he is changed for the better. This character never gives inspirational speeches and often does the wrong actions but despite it all, Frank isn't too disheartened and knows that he is fighting for the right side. 

James Mason playing Ed Concannon: This villain is the typical posh rich guy with the mustache. Everyone hates him right off the bat and all the underhanded tricks he uses makes me frustrated. I thought James Mason's posh voice gives the right effect as it reminded me an overbearing father. He was in charge, he was experienced, and he knew the tricks. Ed Concannon never backed down and when he had the chance to go easy on Frank, hits him in the gut... metaphorically speaking. I thought the legal fight he put up was refreshing from today's theater and for that I commend him.

Music: I actually don't remember the movie having any music but it was there! This is a good sign though, as the music blended in well with the film to the point that I didn't notice it. So I suppose, good on you Johnny Mandel!

Camera Work/Cinematography: Movies made in the 1980s are blurry due to the way filming was done at that time. There were moments of sharpness though. The effect I noticed the most were the use of shadows. This created depth and brought us into Frank Galvin's mind. Frank was in a dark place himself and the shadows and darkness made us see his situation. I noticed that the court sessions had the most light as that was the only place Frank could find a way out of his sad past.

RECAP:

I thought this film was a nice change from today's cinema. I liked seeing an intellectual battle instead of a physical one. It wasn't too complex in the legal terms either which makes it easy to understand. The acting was quite good and the way the director brings us to Frank's miseries and then brought us out, which was great. It is a good law movie to watch with anyone in my opinion. I think it's similar to this other great law movie. 

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