Review of A Time to Kill (1996) by Matthew D — 25 Nov 2018

A gripping emotional courtroom drama.

Joel Schumacher's straight forward direction leads A Time to Kill (1996) to compelling courtroom drama that dives into the heart of American racial politics and the ethics of murder. It is upsetting movie material, but ever so important and relevant to present day America dynamics. The tensions between black and white communities feels just as crucial as when A Time to Kill first released.

The direction is smooth and full of fascinating shots to squeeze every bit of intense emotion out of the actors and the audience. Schumacher's style is fairly basic and not groundbreaking, but his directorial vision is still present to demonstrate the injustices of America's legal systems. Schumacher shines a light on the numerous flaws of lawyers, courts, judges, and ethics all thanks to Akiva Goldsman's script adaptation of John Grisham's novel A Time to Kill.

Samuel L. Jackson is the standout performer in A Time to Kill. He is so serious and sympathetic. You are on his side the whole time and Jackson gives the most passionate speeches you'll ever hear in A Time to Kill. I would put this performance from Jackson up against any in his career.

Similarly, Matthew McConaughey is brilliant as the young lawyer representing Jackson's character. He adds a warmth and likability to the story, while portraying the more intriguing aspects of lawyer defense.

On the other hand, A Time to Kill features three excellent villainous performances from Kevin Spacey, Kiefer Sutherland, and Kurtwood Smith. Spacey's Southern corrupt prosecutor is so slimy and repulsive played with a callous charisma that is infectious. Spacey is pretty impressive here. Likewise, Sutherland is such a vicious racist that you are shaken by his contempt for black people. Lastly, Smith's KKK leader role is quite chilling in his cruel portrayal. Smith is fantastic as always.

I must mention the fine supporting cast of A Time to Kill. Donald Sutherland is thoughtful and fun in his pleasant nature. Ashley Judd is excellent as McConaughey's wife. She gives an aloof sweetness and supportive dramatic appeal.

Unfortunately, Sandra Bullock and Oliver Platt are way over the top. They are the type of cheesy schmaltz stereotypes you can count Schumacher to put into his films. The movie is about a half hour too long as well as this story could have been condensed. I wish Schumacher needed to take a more serious and intricate show of the relations in the movie. The harrowing nature of this crime narrative is played seriously at least.

Overall, Samuel L. Jackson is the main appeal of A Time to Kill, but McConaughey and Spacey's roles are worth watching too. It is a shocking and intense film that could have been whittled down a bit, but is certainly worth seeing.