12 Angry Men

12 Angry Men

I had to watch this movie in class for a group assignment. The movie is about 12 men on a jury debating the facts in a murder case involving a young child supposedly killing his father. 12 was made back in the 50s, and some would say it was the golden age of Hollywood. I can see why. This movie is a wonderfully crafted piece of art that slowly builds until the inspiring ending. We get a prolonged peek into how the other side of the American court system works. With a great script and legendary actors, a single set doesn’t seem boring at all.

Henry Fonda plays the main star in the film. His character has a kind heart and attempts to sway the other jurors in the trial to reconsider the case. Fonda carries himself extremely well in this classic. There is an appearance of grace and dignity in his performance that makes you want to side with his cause. Behind the scenes, Fonda didn’t like the pressures of being both a producer and actor. This would be his first and last role as a producer. Just looking at this movie, Fonda was one of the greats.

There are plenty of character and political layers to the storyline. While we never get to know their complete names, we know from their opinions what kind of background each one of them had. We see how these backgrounds form the decisions they have about the case. And, these backgrounds also help them seek answers in the case. It shows that we all have something to offer to the greater group.

There are some great character moments in this film that I won’t even talk about here because I want people to watch this movie. 12 is a brilliant look into what makes film-making and democratic system great, despite the flaws in the justice system. I highly recommend this film.

Grade A

______________________________________________________There are many great moments between Fonda and Lee J. Cobb. These are some of best moments in the film.

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Another name for the movie: 12 guys in white shirts and smoking a lot, while sweating.

Okay, I take back what I just said in the above caption. Just stop looking at me that way...