Review of The Verdict (1982) by Leighton T — 31 Aug 2009
A simple, straightforward redemption story that's exceptional due to its focus on Newman's character and the obstacles to his salvation rather than falling back on the well-trodden groove of the courtroom drama.
In a film about court procedure, the resolution would be a deus ex machina, but here it's a satisfyingly desperate hail-mary that underlines the film's theme. Newman isn't redeemed by anything so simple as his skill as a lawyer or his uncompromising morality, but rather by his last-straw decision to face judgment for good or ill rather than carefully avoid it.
It's also extremely well shot and paced, it makes me wish there were more Lumet/Mamet team-ups.
This review of The Verdict (1982) was written by Leighton T on 31 Aug 2009.
The Verdict has generally received very positive reviews.
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