mitchelltowens
Hearing about the concept of a film where 12 men are in one room for the entire film, you would think it would be a boring experience. However, the result we get is one of the most compelling stories every told in film. Performances, camera work, writing, just about everything is met with incredible talent and purpose. The way the camera shots slowly become more zoomed in on the characters as the movie progresses and the situation becomes more intense. Realistic reactions and viewpoints over the court case. This movie puts you in their shoes, and you will likely end up discussing with your friends what you would have done if you were part of this story. Truly a masterpiece and a must watch for anyone who enjoys a good dialogue driven narrative.
jonahcybarra-82318
Dialogue-driven movies are not often written, even less are made, and even less than that are considered to be good. 12 Angry Men is a film that not only beats the odds and is good, it is considered by many to be one of the best films ever made. Sporting a cast led by the always fantastic Henry Fonda, this movie presents the seemingly simple idea that when put in a position of power over another, one should consider the other's position and understand where they are coming from. A very forward-thinking film for its time, 12 Angry Men takes on some of the biggest issues our world has faced, continues to face, and will continue to face more than likely until the end of time such as racism, prejudice, abuse, apathy, cowardice, and other, darker aspects of humanity. Despite confronting this darkness head on, this film manages to do so without seeming either preachy or making the audience feel hopeless. Instead this film keeps the audience on the edge of their seats until the very end. As these twelve jurors go over every little aspect of the murder trial they've been assigned to, more and more doubt is cast upon the prosecution's case and slowly but surely, the vote in the room begins to turn towards a verdict of not guilty until it is unanimous and it has been proven that there is reasonable doubt, thereby acquitting the defendant. The screenplay is worthy of an Oscar as it naturally builds the tension, allows it to climax, and then brings it back down to a simmer all in a very believable, realistic way. My only complaint is that at times the dialogue seemed a touch forced and there were a few instances of over-acting but these didn't truly affect the film as a whole. This film is not only used in film school classes, it is utilized throughout various different aspects of the collegiate curriculum and for good reason. Standing as a testament to great filmmaking that is actually meaningful and carries with it an important message, 12 Angry Men is a movie that has stood the test of time and will continue to do so, proudly sporting a legacy that will continue on for generations to come.
