My favorite Paul Newman performance. Manages to be both a courtroom and a captivating character driven drama. One of those films that holds up really really well.
Lumet, Mamet, Newman... The Verdict has an embarrassment of riches both behind and in front of the camera, which also includes veterans like James Mason and Jack Warden, and relative newcomers like Charlotte Rampling and (naming him for fun because he's just an extra in the background), Bruce Willis. But while everyone does a good job, it's really Newman's show. He gives an incredible performance (the dry mouth alone...) as an alcoholic attorney who can't possibly win a case against the Catholic Church in Boston, but has nothing else going for him. Well, the case is one of medical malpractice, but by making it a Catholic hospital, a religious resonance is achieved that equates the churches and court houses, laws and morality, and the verdict with a chance at redemption, which isn't without devilish temptation along the way. Newman's soul is in turmoil, and only by doing good can he hope for rest. Setting this nearing the Christmas season (without ever referencing it) isn't just a random choice, is it? Not with Lumet.
As said, weak story but wonderful performance by Newman and Mason. Also, I love watching Jack Warden in the background. Underrated performance by him as well.
Really great movie, and i totally agree with tigh66, what a stunning performance by Newman! But there are some flaws in the storyline which prevents it from being one of the best. But still, Newman is fantastic.
Paul Newman's best performance. This film is mesmerizing, maybe the best courtroom drama of all time. Sidney Lumet is a genius, an underrated director.
Judge Hoyle: Frank, what would you and your client take - right now, this very minute - to walk out of here, let this damn thing drop?
Frank Galvin: My client can't walk, your honor.
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Gilles Debil
This must be the only Lumet film not set in New YorkRonet
My favorite Paul Newman performance. Manages to be both a courtroom and a captivating character driven drama. One of those films that holds up really really well.boulderman
Rewatched after a couple of decades as some books reference it alot. 7-10- now 9/10. Newman was AceSiskoid
Lumet, Mamet, Newman... The Verdict has an embarrassment of riches both behind and in front of the camera, which also includes veterans like James Mason and Jack Warden, and relative newcomers like Charlotte Rampling and (naming him for fun because he's just an extra in the background), Bruce Willis. But while everyone does a good job, it's really Newman's show. He gives an incredible performance (the dry mouth alone...) as an alcoholic attorney who can't possibly win a case against the Catholic Church in Boston, but has nothing else going for him. Well, the case is one of medical malpractice, but by making it a Catholic hospital, a religious resonance is achieved that equates the churches and court houses, laws and morality, and the verdict with a chance at redemption, which isn't without devilish temptation along the way. Newman's soul is in turmoil, and only by doing good can he hope for rest. Setting this nearing the Christmas season (without ever referencing it) isn't just a random choice, is it? Not with Lumet.The_Comatorium
As said, weak story but wonderful performance by Newman and Mason. Also, I love watching Jack Warden in the background. Underrated performance by him as well.devilsadvocado
Love me some 1982 Paul Newman.Duval Spit
Great performances by Newman and Mason, but the story was weak.arunraj
yeah thats rt stunning performance from him!!!!!!!!sureup
Really great movie, and i totally agree with tigh66, what a stunning performance by Newman! But there are some flaws in the storyline which prevents it from being one of the best. But still, Newman is fantastic.tigh66
Paul Newman's best performance. This film is mesmerizing, maybe the best courtroom drama of all time. Sidney Lumet is a genius, an underrated director.Paul
Judge Hoyle: Frank, what would you and your client take - right now, this very minute - to walk out of here, let this damn thing drop?Frank Galvin: My client can't walk, your honor.