The Verdict

In this 1982 courtroom drama written by David Mamet and directed by Sidney Lumet, Paul Newman found the perfect role as alcoholic Boston lawyer Frank Galvin, an aging, weary legal eagle whose best years are behind him, staring into a shot-glass future that looks very bleak indeed. But when Galvin is given a chance to redeem himself—by proving medical negligence in the case of a comatose woman—he makes one final effort to regain his self-respect and overturn his tarnished reputation. Handed the case by his newly retired attorney friend (Jack Warden), Galvin is the proverbial underdog—facing a powerful, politically-connected adversary (James Mason) who will do anything to win the case, regardless of professional ethics. Further complicating matters is a woman (Charlotte Rampling) who may or may not be worthy of Galvin's trust and love. Excellent as both courtroom drama and riveting character study, The Verdict crackles with Mamet's sharp dialogue, while Lumet's direction is a brilliant example of forceful restraint. Nominated for five Academy Awards (including Best Actor), The Verdict debuts on Blu-ray with extras including audio commentary by Lumet and Newman (the latter offering only separately-recorded sparse comments), interviews with Lumet and Newman, and behind-the-scenes featurettes. Highly recommended. (J. Shannon)