Review of The Verdict (1982) by Adrian B — 27 Jan 2013

An irresponsible, alcoholic lawyer Frank Galvin (Paul Newman) is in the beginning process of entering into a new case, despite many of his peers' reluctance. The purpose of this case to fight for justice of the family of a woman who given improper treatment by a doctor and get them the compensation for which they deserve.

However, support by all, including the judge (Milo O'Shea) is minimal due to Frank's constant lateness and inappropriate requests, which demonstrate a potential lack of commitment. Doesn't rank alongside the best of courtroom dramas (which were in the late 1950's and early 1960's) or as one of Sidney Lumet's best, but it still works.

It has the special characteristic of progressing with mainly silence in order to acknowledge the characters concentration of the topics of concern. The performances by Newman and James Mason, who plays a doctor that is assisting the defendant, are quite good.