12 Angry Men

Release Year: 1957
Review: A superb courtroom drama focusing on twelve jurors trying to come to a conciseness on a murder case. The entire film takes place in the confines of one room. Sidney Lumet manages to make this one room as dynamic and exciting as any movie. From the opening scene, a beautiful, long, moving, single take shot taking us into the jury room, to the final verdict, it is a completely engrossing examination of guilt and doubt. The twelve men that make up the jury are all distinct and have strong characteristics, making them uniquely identifiable. The deliberation takes place on one of the hottest days of the year, and none of them want to be stuck in the room sweating out something which they perceive to be a clear case of murder. The heat plays an important role in creating tension and fueling short tempers. Each of the the jurors is played brilliantly by some of the most talented actors of the time. Chief among them is the one juror who starts questioning the supposed facts of the case, played by Henry Fonda. Fonda is the calming voice of reason throughout and gradually persuades each juror to question what is certain. There are several shots of him giving a piercing, judgmental gaze to the doubtful jurors that says so much. It was a wonderful performance which stands out amongst a great cast.

Each juror started out certain of the guilt of the accused, and indifferent to the severity of the consequences of their decision. Through a masterful series of examinations the jurors, led by Fonda, unwind the 'open and shut' case to expose gaping holes and introduce the possibility of doubt. Lumet expertly questions perceptions and stereotypes and makes each juror struggle with their own prejudices and inner demons. This is a masterpiece. From beginning to end it is utterly gripping and ranks as one of my favorite films of all time.
Rating: 5/5