Review of The Verdict (1982) by Brandon H — 08 May 2010

One of Newman's best performances. Plays washed up, alcoholic Boston attorney trying to save his practice. Gets a shot at redemption. A very long shot going up against high powered lawyers in a medical malpractice lawsuit. He suffers set back after set back, and one huge cold blooded betrayal. All in the pursuit of justice. The type of justice he lost faith in long ago, and hopes to regain again.

Director Sidney Lumet, working off a screenplay by David Mamet, incorporates the theme of quasi Biblical redemption throughout the movie. Starts off with the opening credits. The font is almost Medieval style. There are no modern buildings seen. All buildings and interiors used are pre-turn of the century in age, Even the music score has religious overtones. PS : Bruce Willis can be glimpsed as a spectator in the courtroom during the final verdict.