Review of Witness for the Prosecution (1957) by Steve G — 20 Aug 2008
This was a FANTASTIC movie. Didn't see it coming. Thought it'd be a run of the mill 50s courtroom drama. But it's so much more. Charles Laughton proves he is one of the greatest actors of all time with this performance. If anyone doubted it before, they certainly didn't after the film.
I love when he yells out to Dietrich "...are you not in fact a chronic and habitual LIAR!!!!!!!!?". The extras did not know that delivery was coming and you can see them literally jump up from their chairs at the sheer intensity & volume of the last word. That was the Laughton touch.
I should add that Tyrone Power, not particularly renowned for acting, gives a wonderful turn here as the defendant. Vulnerable, yet scheming. And Dietrich is rock solid. I recommend this to anyone. Amazing story, and one of the best cinematic plot twists ever! Courtroom drama at its best.
This review of Witness for the Prosecution (1957) was written by Steve G on 20 Aug 2008.
Witness for the Prosecution has generally received very positive reviews.
Was this review helpful?
