Review of The Verdict (1982) by Melvin W — 19 Sep 2011
After reading Lumet's book, one can see how much prudent precision goes into every single shot, scene, and sequence. The Verdict is the epitome of this claim. We are involved with a drunkard-attorney who has nearly hit rock bottom with his practice in shambles, wife divorced, and his reputation as "an ambulance chaser" at its apex.
The opening pinball sequence (while sipping on a beer) acts as a foundation to a film about playing games and the consequences of losing your discipline. From the red-lettering to the transitioning transitions (soft dissolve to sharp cutting) to the unrelentingly immaculate crane shots and painstaking framing, The Verdict is a technical masterpiece.
The denouement delivers audience satisfaction in regard to morals and even our newly reengineered protagonist who has nonchalantly switched from booze to coffee. And the endlessly ringing phone symbolizes the omnipresent force of former vice, which Newman abnegates without breaking a sweat.
As the credits roll, a viewer comes to terms that despair is a bitch, esp. when it's self-induced, but it usually takes arduous resilience to reach heights again. But it is so so sweet once you arrive there.
This review of The Verdict (1982) was written by Melvin W on 19 Sep 2011.
The Verdict has generally received very positive reviews.
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