12 Angry Men (1957), Director: Sidney Lumet, Rated: Approved

Life Is In Their Hands -- Death Is On Their Minds!

Starring: Henry Fonda, Lee J. Cobb, Jack Warden, Jack Klugman, Martin Balsam, John Fiedler, E. G. Marshall, Edward Binns, Joseph Sweeney, Ed Begley, George Voskevec, Robert Webber

DML Rating: ★★★★★★★★★★ - perfect

DML Top 50 #26 - Dad's Full (Spoiler) Review and Deep Dive of 12 Angry Men

"You don't really mean that you would kill me, do you?" Juror #8

Why watch this? A superb character study about a jury deciding a boy's fate.

Plot Summary: This film focuses on a jury's deliberation during a murder trial for a young man accused of killing his father. Initially, the vast majority of the jurors believe the defendant is guilty, but one juror raises doubt, prompting a heated debate and re-examination of the evidence. The film explores themes of justice, prejudice, and the power of individual conscience as the men must decide whether or not to reach a unanimous decision.

Dad's Preview: One fascinating aspect of our judicial system is how a jury works. Twelve complete strangers will hear the evidence and render a verdict. This masterful film takes us through the whole process. Though it features a host of familiar character actors (who all render great performances, with different personalities and motives), the film focuses on Jurors #3 and #8. They are polar opposites - one fiery and damaged by personal issues; the other, calm and rational. Fonda and Cobb dominate this courtroom drama that will leave you wondering, "How would perform my duty if a boy's life was on the line?"

Orion-Nova Productionsl; United Artists