Review of Philadelphia (1993) by Ian V — 20 Jul 2011

This is a movie targeting the social prejudice of AIDS and race. I heard many things about this movie before I watched it, how sad it was, how good it was. And I'd have to agree with both. It really is a good movie.

Starting off with a superb introduction (Bruce Springsteen's "Streets Of Philadelphia") we are entertained by a comic scene between Andy (the ever superb Tom Hanks) and Joe Miller who later fights for Andy's case (magnificently played by Denzel Washington). It really is a true and deep movie, accurately portraying all the things society looks down on yet still does sub-consciously themselves. Particularly in a scene where he is fired, it really shows; prejudice is an unwanted part of society and natural reaction. Yet it is still there, deep beneath the surface.

This movie has everything. All in all, it is a poignant, scarily accurate drama that is powerfully spreading the word of peace and acceptance. It is only weighed down slightly by one ludicrous opera scene. Well worth watching.