“12 Angry Men” is a lesson in the early art of filmmaking. This gem – written by Reginald Rose and directed by Sidney Lumet – earns the high degree of praise and status it has associated with it since its creation in 1957. It has gone on to be regarded as one of the best films ever made and with good reason. The story is intriguing. The acting is excellent. The direction is state of the art.
We’ve seen reinventions of this plot many times since. In fact, the 1997 version was my first foray into this story. Set in a smoldering New York City courthouse on one of the hottest days of the year; “12 Angry Men” follows a group of random strangers; jurors deliberating the fate of a young man accused of murdering his father. An obvious guilty verdict and trip to the electric chair proves to be anything but as they begin their deliberations.
To call it ahead of its time is an understatement. The story itself pens a variety of themes and traits amongst its characters; an eclectic mix whose personalities are subtly revealed as the story progresses. Classism, racism, standing up for your beliefs in the face mob opposition. All are integral parts to the treatment.
The deciders of Fate
One could write a thesis on each of the twelve jurors based on only a handful of lines they speak. That it plays out in real time in a single room is literal brilliance.
Sidney Lumet had a career that spanned fifty years with this being his directorial debut. Lumet crafts a marvelous picture working with an incredibly limited scope. Twelve men in a room discussing a trial. It sounds like a dull Court TV reality show. Yet it plays out as one of the most gripping and tense movies one can watch. Lumet masks cuts with crisp blocking creating a one take feel. The framing is excellent with close-ups and wide shots included where needed. All of the aforementioned give the production an artistic spice to couple with a great story. Shame on me for not realizing another film I loved “Before the Devil Knows You’re Dead” was Lumet’s final film. I’ll now be checking out his entire collection.
Henry Fonda and Lee J Cobb square off in “12 Angry Men”
The cast – all men – is what pushes an otherwise simple narrative far past compelling. Titans of the era like Henry Fonda, Ed Begley and Lee J Cobb lead the ensemble. Also included are personal favorites from episodes of “The Twilight Zone” Jack Klugman, Martin Balsam, and Jack Warden. It’s hot in the room – figuratively and literally. You’ll feel the sweat and the tension begin to boil as the drama unfolds over 96 minutes. Each character is portrayed with an emotional feel. Some of the men are governed by justice. Others by what’s logical. Some sway with the crowd. Some are simply evil. Nothing is forced upon the audience. It’s up to the viewer to decide which side to be on.
“12 Angry Men” is absolutely amazing. As a writer, the story is impossible to behold. The film is flawlessly crafted. The remake is excellent, but the original is, as always, the best.
