and justice for all movie review

… and Justice for All

Here’s an angry comedy crossed with an expose and held together by one of those high-voltage Al Pacino performances that’s so sure of itself we hesitate to demur. Pacino plays an aggressive young Baltimore lawyer who has worked within the system for 12 years or so — he’s not a reformer fresh out of law school — but who, during the course of this movie, is driven to advise the American system of jurisprudence to stick its head where the sun don’t shine.

Pacino’s immediate inspiration is a judge named Fleming ( John Forsythe ) who rather unexpectedly becomes his client. Forsythe looks marvelously like a judge. He has the razor-cut grey hair and the tired, thoughtful eyes and the gentleman’s vague sneer when addressing a lawyer in his courtroom.

We get the impression that he saved himself a lot of time, early in his time on the bench, by resolving never to allow considerations of simple humanity to interfere with his handling of a case.

That angers Pacino, because Pacino has a client who has been in jail for months because of Forsythe. The client, as it happens, is innocent. Everyone seems agreed on that point. But the client was in the wrong place at the wrong time, and was filed away in a cell during a hiccup in standard police procedure, and cannot get out again until Pacino and Forsythe can agree on several meaningless technicalities.

They cannot. Forsythe seems to take a quiet sadistic pleasure in frustrating Pacino while his client goes through a crack-up in jail. Meanwhile, Pacino’s life is complicated on other fronts. It is, in fact, complicated on too many other fronts: “…and Justice for All” has so many characters doing so many things to, with and against Pacino that it’s a triumph of film making when all the stories end in the same movie.

There is a girlfriend, and a neurotic law partner, and another nutty client, and a stark raving mad senior judge ( Jack Warden ) who indulges his suicidal impulses by eating his lunch on a fifth-floor window ledge and seeing if his helicopter will fly without gasoline.

These subplots are all thrown into the story’s way without much regard as to whether they’re serious and subtle or broad and comic; the movie is a compromise involving various approaches to the material. But Pacino’s performance forces a kind of logic on the events.

We somewhat suspiciously accept the movie’s swings of tone because Pacino remains consistent, and because he seems to remember what the basic issues are even when the movie detours into irrelevant episodes like the helicopter flight.

Then things tighten up just in time: When the movie seems about to become a series of sketches, it turns out that Forsythe is a prime suspect in the brutal rape and beating of a young girl.

Is he innocent, as he claims? Guilty? He wants Pacino to handle his defense: Inevitably, it’s going to look as if the fix is in unless the defense is conducted by a lawyer who’s clearly on record as despising Forsythe.

But . . . what if Forsythe’s guilty? What does Pacino do then? What he does is borrowed from “ Network ” and “ One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest ” and other recent celebrations of the manic rebel personality in confrontation with the immoral establishment. The closing courtroom scenes are constructed as a machine to make the audience cheer, and the machine works.

Whether it works a little cynically is left for the audience to decide: “…and Justice for All” has been so many things and struck so many tones by the ending that it’s not a statement, it’s an anthology. Maybe, when Pacino’s courtroom scene gathers force, we just forget the farce and soap opera and romantic comedy that went before, and take the scene as self-contained.

Roger Ebert

Roger Ebert was the film critic of the Chicago Sun-Times from 1967 until his death in 2013. In 1975, he won the Pulitzer Prize for distinguished criticism.

• Christine Lahti as Gail Packer
• John Forsythe as Judge Fleming
• Sam Levene as Arnie
• Al Pacino as Arthur Kirkland
• Lee Strasberg as Grandpa Sam
• Jeffrey Tambor as Jay Porter
• Jack Warden as Judge Rayford

Screenplay by

• Barry Levinson
• Valerie Curtin
• Dave Grusin

Produced by

• Patrick Palmer
• John F. Burnett

Directed by

• Norman Jewison

Photographed by

• Victor J. Kemper

Leave a comment

Now playing.

Speak No Evil (2024)

Saturday Night

The Killer’s Game

Girls Will Be Girls

The 4:30 Movie

Sweetheart Deal

¡Casa Bonita Mi Amor!

Latest articles

TIFF 2024: On Swift Horses, Meet the Barbarians, All of You

Natasha Rothwell Finds New Life in Hulu’s Winning “How to Die Alone”

Starz’ “Three Women” Stumbles Through Its Tale of Stifled Female Passion

TIFF 2024: Table of Contents

The best movie reviews, in your inbox.

Common Sense Media

Movie & TV reviews for parents

• For Parents
• For Educators
• Our Work and Impact

Or browse by category:

• Movie Reviews
• Best Movie Lists
• Best Movies on Netflix, Disney+, and More

Common Sense Selections for Movies

50 Modern Movies All Kids Should Watch Before They're 12

• Best TV Lists
• Best TV Shows on Netflix, Disney+, and More
• Common Sense Selections for TV
• Video Reviews of TV Shows

Best Kids' Shows on Disney+

Best Kids' TV Shows on Netflix

• Book Reviews
• Best Book Lists
• Common Sense Selections for Books

8 Tips for Getting Kids Hooked on Books

50 Books All Kids Should Read Before They're 12

• Game Reviews
• Best Game Lists

Common Sense Selections for Games

• Video Reviews of Games

Nintendo Switch Games for Family Fun

• Podcast Reviews
• Best Podcast Lists

Common Sense Selections for Podcasts

Parents' Guide to Podcasts

• App Reviews
• Best App Lists

Social Networking for Teens

Gun-Free Action Game Apps

Reviews for AI Apps and Tools

• YouTube Channel Reviews
• YouTube Kids Channels by Topic

Parents' Ultimate Guide to YouTube Kids

YouTube Kids Channels for Gamers

• Preschoolers (2-4)
• Little Kids (5-7)
• Big Kids (8-9)
• Pre-Teens (10-12)
• Teens (13+)
• Screen Time
• Social Media
• Online Safety
• Identity and Community

How to Help Kids Build Character Strengths with Quality Media

• Family Tech Planners
• Digital Skills
• All Articles
• Latino Culture
• Black Voices
• Asian Stories
• Native Narratives
• LGBTQ+ Pride
• Best of Diverse Representation List

Multicultural Books

YouTube Channels with Diverse Representations

Podcasts with Diverse Characters and Stories

...and justice for all.

• Common Sense Says
• Parents Say 0 Reviews
• Kids Say 0 Reviews

Common Sense Media Review

'70s courtroom drama has swearing, violence, sex.

Parents Need to Know

Parents need to know that ...And Justice for All is a 1979 courtroom drama with strong language and adult themes. The movie tackles ethical and moral issues -- as well as the abuse of power -- with renegade defense attorney Arthur Kirkland (Al Pacino) made to represent the arrogant and dismissive Judge…

Why Age 15+?

Innuendo. Kissing. Reference to having sex. Couple shown in bed together, partly

Language used includes "s--t," "goddamn," "son of a bitch," "douche bag," and "f

Sexual violence discussed in relation to a legal case. Minor scuffles and violen

Several wealthy characters, including one who takes others for a ride in their o

Social drinking and smoking. Character appears drunk.

Any Positive Content?

Standing up for what you believe in, defending others who can't defend themselve

Arthur is courageous and compassionate, but often shows contempt for authority f

The main cast is predominantly White and male, with some ethnic and gender diver

Sex, Romance & Nudity

Innuendo. Kissing. Reference to having sex. Couple shown in bed together, partly under covers. One appears shirtless. Character emerges from swimming pool in shorts. Woman shown fully nude in photos of a sex party, other characters shown in fetish wear.

Did you know you can flag iffy content? Adjust limits for Sex, Romance & Nudity in your kid's entertainment guide.

Language used includes "s--t," "goddamn," "son of a bitch," "douche bag," and "f--k." Also use of the "N" word. Non-inclusive language directed toward a transgender character. Some swearing is played for comedic effect.

Did you know you can flag iffy content? Adjust limits for Language in your kid's entertainment guide.

Violence & Scariness

Sexual violence discussed in relation to a legal case. Minor scuffles and violent outbursts. References to punches being thrown. A gun is fired to quieten a courtroom dispute. References to murder and other reported violence, including sexual violence. Bloody injuries and bruises shown. Intentional property damage and intimidation. Shots fired in a standoff. Sexual harassment.

Did you know you can flag iffy content? Adjust limits for Violence & Scariness in your kid's entertainment guide.

Products & Purchases

Several wealthy characters, including one who takes others for a ride in their own helicopter.

Drinking, Drugs & Smoking

Did you know you can flag iffy content? Adjust limits for Drinking, Drugs & Smoking in your kid's entertainment guide.

Positive Messages

Standing up for what you believe in, defending others who can't defend themselves. Criticizing corruption. These themes are all set against a backdrop of abuses of power and a flawed legal system.

Positive Role Models

Arthur is courageous and compassionate, but often shows contempt for authority figures and due process. Other institutional figures -- such as police officers and judges -- openly disregard problems with their own due process and those who are wronged by the legal system.

Diverse Representations

The main cast is predominantly White and male, with some ethnic and gender diversity among the supporting cast. A transgender character appears in a supporting role. An older character's mental and cognitive health is shown to be declining. Further discussions around mental health, include characters breaking down and feeling suicidal. Character has a violent outburst when suffering a period of intense mental distress, which plays on stereotypes.

Did we miss something on diversity? Suggest an update.

Parents need to know that ...And Justice for All is a 1979 courtroom drama with strong language and adult themes. The movie tackles ethical and moral issues -- as well as the abuse of power -- with renegade defense attorney Arthur Kirkland ( Al Pacino ) made to represent the arrogant and dismissive Judge Fleming ( John Forsythe ), who stands accused of rape. Sexual violence is discussed in relation to the case. There are also scuffles and the firing of a gun inside a courtroom. While there is little diversity among the main cast, there is some in the supporting roles. Arthur's fellow lawyer, Gail ( Christine Lahti ), is a credible love interest who is treated with respect for being good at her job. Arthur also helps a transgender suspect, Ralph (Robert Christian), who receives no sympathy or support from others. While the language is sporadic, it does include the "N" word, used by Ralph, when talking about how police officers view Black men. Ralph is also on the receiving end of non-inclusive language. Sex is implied both directly and through innuendo. A couple are seen lying in bed together and photos from a sex party show a woman naked and others in fetish wear. Characters drink alcohol and, in one scene, Arthur's colleague, Jay ( Jeffrey Tambor ), appears drunk, in response to a stressful incident at work. To stay in the loop on more movies like this, you can sign up for weekly Family Movie Night emails .

Where to Watch

Videos and photos.

Parent and Kid Reviews

• Parents say

There aren't any parent reviews yet. Be the first to review this title.

What's the Story?

…AND JUSTICE FOR ALL tells the story of idealistic lawyer Arthur Kirkland ( Al Pacino ) who is forced to defend a judge he has frequently clashed with in the past.

Is It Any Good?

This slightly chaotic judicial drama might lack the neatness of other movies in the genre or the realism of other movies from the same era. But … And Justice for All remains an ambitious attempt to show how authority figures both struggle against and manipulate a flawed legal system. Pacino does a dependable job as courageous everyman Kirkland, revisiting the kind of role he was able to explore with greater nuance in Serpico . He's also able to raise the roof and the volume in the movie's more combustible moments without wildly overacting, which is where several of his co-stars come unstuck.

The "main" plot line revolving around Kirkland being forced to defend the monstrous Judge Fleming ( John Forsythe ) gets slightly buried in the melee, but does fuel the fire of Kirkland's discontent. This drives ...And Justice for All toward a final act that makes no attempt to hide the irony of its title. While undercut slightly by some misjudged comedic scenes along the way, this is still one for Pacino completists to tick off their watch lists.

Talk to Your Kids About ...

Familes can talk about how the judicial system is portrayed in ...And Justice for All . What do you think the filmmakers were trying to say about the legal process? Did you think it was an accurate portrayal?

Discuss the violence in the movie. Much of it was discussed rather than shown. Did that make it any less shocking? Why, or why not? Does exposure to violent media desensitize kids to violence?

Talk about Arthur Kirkland. Would you describe him as a good role model ? What were his positive/negative attributes?

Discuss the strong language used. Did it seem necessary or excessive? What did it contribute to the movie?

How was sex portrayed? Was it affectionate? Respectful? Parents, talk to your teens about your own values regarding sex and relationships.

Movie Details

• In theaters : October 19, 1979
• On DVD or streaming : December 7, 2010
• Cast : Al Pacino , John Forsythe , Jack Warden
• Director : Norman Jewison
• Studio : Columbia Pictures
• Genre : Drama
• Run time : 119 minutes
• MPAA rating : R
• Last updated : October 11, 2023

Did we miss something on diversity?

Research shows a connection between kids' healthy self-esteem and positive portrayals in media. That's why we've added a new "Diverse Representations" section to our reviews that will be rolling out on an ongoing basis. You can help us help kids by suggesting a diversity update.

Suggest an Update

What to watch next.

12 Angry Men

A Time to Kill

A Few Good Men

Courtroom dramas, political movies.

Common Sense Media's unbiased ratings are created by expert reviewers and aren't influenced by the product's creators or by any of our funders, affiliates, or partners.

The Definitive Voice of Entertainment News

Subscribe for full access to The Hollywood Reporter

site categories

‘and justice for all’: thr’s 1979 review.

On October 19, 1979, Columbia unveiled the R-rated legal drama in theaters.

By Robert Osborne

Robert Osborne

• Share on Facebook
• Share to Flipboard
• Send an Email
• Show additional share options
• Share on LinkedIn
• Share on Pinterest
• Share on Reddit
• Share on Tumblr
• Share on Whats App
• Print the Article
• Post a Comment

On October 19, 1979, Columbia unveiled the R-rated legal drama …And Justice for All in theaters. The film went on to earn two Oscar nominations at the 52nd Academy Awards, for its screenplay and for Al Pacino in the lead actor category. The Hollywood Reporter’s original review is below.

…And Justice for All is one ironic title and one terrific movie. With Al Pacino starring and Norman Jewison directing, the Joe Wizan presentation for Columbia release socks across an often scathing, surprisingly funny and constantly terrifying scan of today’s judicial system: it’s a cinch to not only raise some hackles and stir controversy, but simultaneously entertain audiences and make them think — and that adds up to big box office.

Related Stories

'better off dead': thr's 1985 review, 'saratoga': thr's 1937 review.

For Pacino, it’s a return (after 1977’s Bobby Deerfield ) to the kind of role he plays best: the scruffy rebel, strong but vulnerable, low-key but easily ignited, fighting in a slick society for simple rights and a fair shake. This time he’s a lawyer, a 12-year vet in the courts, battling not only one-on-one injustices but, apparently, a whole system gone bonkers. “Being honest doesn’t have much to do with being a lawyer,” he dejectedly advises at one point. But, as played by Pacino, you know he may believe it but won’t accept it. That’s what makes …And Justice for All hold interest and crackle.

The story line by Valerie Curtin and Barry Levinson opens with Pacino in jail, serving time for taking a swing at an important judge (John Forsythe) he despises for the latter’s inequities, then follows him through several cases: defending a transvestite (Robert Christian) who’s terrified of going to the pokey; attempting to spring an innocent kid (Thomas Waites) from an unfair incarceration; coping with a partner (Jeffrey Tambor) who freaks out; helping a rich client (Dominic Chianese) who’s always in hot water; and finally being blackmailed into defending his arch-enemy Forsythe, who’s charged with rape — and is guilty. Pacino’s only compensations seem to be visits with his grandfather (Lee Strasberg), communication with a rascally judge (Jack Warden) and bedding down with Christine Lahti. But grandpa’s senile, the judge is bent on suicide and his bedmate is at opposite poles on the subject of law.

How it all turns out is not as important as the questions being raised along the route, especially the one of keenest interest (and impact) to us all: Are any of us safe today, with the way the law — and lawyers — work? Apparently not, according to . ..And Justice for All , unless you can find a Pacino clone in your corner. Or until the Bar Assn. films a rebuttal.

The film is loaded with virtues — strong direction, bright performances, stinging script, ace camera work (by Victor Kemper), jaunty music score (by Dave Grusin) — but it is not without its flaws. Some of the story line stretches credibility, especially the character played by Forsythe, who is almost too villainous under the circumstances; it’s also tough to believe he would place his own defense in the hands of a man like Pacino who’s been indelibly painted as a lawyer-rebel who’s unorthodox, uncontrollable and an island. Reasons for the Pacino-Forsythe affiliation should have been much stronger.

Character line assigned to Lahti (the only femme with any real footage) also dilutes without explanation, robbing the film of a chance to say some important things about those who feel the law is a rigid and unbendable thing. It starts to, but dissolves before making any points or conclusions. Warden’s kooky judge makes for some good laughs but he seems almost too dingbat for believability, especially since the other characters are basically written in flesh-and-blood strokes. Warden plays it well; the problem is the script, which has his many suicide attempts verge too much on a Roadrunner level.

Strasberg, as Pacino’s aging grandfather, gives a beautiful interpretation of the hazards of time, and Sam Levene has good moments as his equally old ally. Forsythe, despite the severity of his role, is impressive in a triumph against typecasting. Performances by Pacino’s clients (Christian, Waites, Chianese) are absolutely first-rate, as is the work by Tambor (in his screen bow), Larry Bryggman as a fellow lawyer and Craig T. Nelson as an ice-cold prosecuting attorney.

The picture opens, under credits, with the voices of three kids individually saying the Pledge of Allegiance ending, naturally, with “…and justice for all.” That makes what follows all the more chilling. Rating of R is for language, most of the stronger words delivered within the confines of a court session. Mark this as a hit. Assisted by Pacino’s persona and draw, it has all the makings of an enormously popular movie. — Robert Osborne, originally published on Sept. 17, 1979

THR Newsletters

Sign up for THR news straight to your inbox every day

More from The Hollywood Reporter

Nicole kidman expresses gratitude for “outpouring of love and kindness” after mother’s death, francis ford coppola says donald trump’s comments about pet-eating immigrants are “so outrageously insulting”, justin timberlake admits to drunken driving and avoids jail time as judge accepts plea deal, devastated lil wayne releases emotional video after losing super bowl halftime show to kendrick lamar, “in our kamala era”: taylor swift ads launch after her endorsement, john legend addresses trump’s attack on haitian immigrants in singer’s ohio hometown: “how about we love one another”.

Log in or sign up for Rotten Tomatoes

Trouble logging in?

By continuing, you agree to the Privacy Policy and the Terms and Policies , and to receive email from the Fandango Media Brands .

By creating an account, you agree to the Privacy Policy and the Terms and Policies , and to receive email from Rotten Tomatoes and to receive email from the Fandango Media Brands .

By creating an account, you agree to the Privacy Policy and the Terms and Policies , and to receive email from Rotten Tomatoes.

Email not verified

Let's keep in touch.

Sign up for the Rotten Tomatoes newsletter to get weekly updates on:

• Upcoming Movies and TV shows
• Rotten Tomatoes Podcast
• Media News + More

By clicking "Sign Me Up," you are agreeing to receive occasional emails and communications from Fandango Media (Fandango, Vudu, and Rotten Tomatoes) and consenting to Fandango's Privacy Policy and Terms and Policies . Please allow 10 business days for your account to reflect your preferences.

OK, got it!

• About Rotten Tomatoes®
• Login/signup

Movies in theaters

• Opening This Week
• Top Box Office
• Coming Soon to Theaters
• Certified Fresh Movies

Movies at Home

• Fandango at Home
• Prime Video
• Most Popular Streaming Movies
• What to Watch New

Certified fresh picks

• 87% Speak No Evil Link to Speak No Evil
• 77% Beetlejuice Beetlejuice Link to Beetlejuice Beetlejuice
• 95% Rebel Ridge Link to Rebel Ridge

New TV Tonight

• 80% How to Die Alone: Season 1
• 59% Emily in Paris: Season 4
• 57% The Old Man: Season 2
• 20% Three Women: Season 1
• -- Universal Basic Guys: Season 1
• -- My Brilliant Friend: Story of the Lost Child: Season 4
• -- Lego Star Wars: Rebuild the Galaxy: Season 1
• -- The Circle: Season 7
• -- Jack Whitehall: Fatherhood with My Father: Season 1
• -- In Vogue: The 90s: Season 1

Most Popular TV on RT

• 93% The Penguin: Season 1
• 60% The Perfect Couple: Season 1
• 85% The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power: Season 2
• 75% Kaos: Season 1
• 100% Slow Horses: Season 4
• 100% Dark Winds: Season 2
• -- Into the Fire: The Lost Daughter: Season 1
• 93% Bad Monkey: Season 1
• Best TV Shows
• Most Popular TV

Certified fresh pick

• 93% The Penguin: Season 1 Link to The Penguin: Season 1
• All-Time Lists
• Binge Guide
• Comics on TV
• Five Favorite Films
• Video Interviews
• Weekend Box Office
• Weekly Ketchup
• What to Watch

50 Best New Horror Movies of 2024

Best Movies of 2024: Best New Movies to Watch Now

What to Watch: In Theaters and On Streaming

Awards Tour

Transformers One First Reviews: The Best Transformers Movie Yet

The Penguin First Reviews: Colin Farrell’s Wild Performance Makes the Series a Must-Watch

• Trending on RT
• Best Horror Movies
• Top 10 Box Office
• Toronto Film Festival
• Free Movies on YouTube

...And Justice for All Reviews

The codification of Pacino’s movie star persona, the first time he started treating that magnificent head of hair as a co-headliner and when his squeaky Michael Corleone whisper got gruff.

Full Review | Jan 22, 2024

And Justice For All is an excessive film. It has a lot to say and sometimes loses its breath, chokes and stutters. But it is good, and at times excellent. [Full review in Spanish]

Full Review | Jan 17, 2024

...AND JUSTICE FOR ALL is a blistering satirical commentary on the American judicial system in general and specifically the correctly perceived two sets of rules for society's haves and the have-nots.

Full Review | Original Score: 4/5 | Mar 31, 2022

While undercut slightly by some misjudged comedic scenes along the way, this is still one for Pacino completists to tick off their watch lists.

Full Review | Original Score: 3/5 | Dec 8, 2021

...the actor's completely convincing, impressively lived-in turn as the sympathetic protagonist effectively anchors the proceedings and carries it through its sporadic less-than-enthralling stretches...

Full Review | Original Score: 3.5/4 | Jun 10, 2021

A courtroom drama that traces an interesting speech about the ethical contradictions of the American legal system, but not even the decent performance of Al Pacino can rescue a plot that sinks in the jail of emptiness. [Full review in Spanish]

Full Review | Original Score: 5/10 | Jan 23, 2021

As it moves towards its stunning conclusion, it's difficult not to become completely immersed in this tragic tale of the search for truth and justice.

Full Review | Original Score: 9/10 | Aug 27, 2020

Biting humor and dynamic drama blend well in this episodic story of an honest lawyer's struggle with the corruption, technicalities and loopholes of the American judicial system.

Full Review | May 27, 2020

With Al Pacino starring and Norman Jewison directing, the Joe Wizan presentation for Columbia release socks across an often scathing, surprisingly funny and constantly terrifying scan of today's judicial system

Full Review | Oct 21, 2019

Pacino does his best with a well-meaning but unfocused script, which often concentrates too much on politics, thus failing to do justice to its characters.

Full Review | May 8, 2013

Justice is seldom as deep or trenchant as it wants to be, but there's abundant pleasure to be gleaned from skating along its surfaces.

Full Review | Original Score: B+ | Jan 24, 2013

Attempts to alternate between comedy and drama, handling neither one incompetently, but also not excelling at either task.

Full Review | Jan 24, 2013

A tiresome and pointless film where Pacino is wasted as a witness to a parade of lunatics.

Full Review | Original Score: 2/4 | Jan 24, 2013

If an uneasy mix of humour and sadness never quite gels, its message is clear and its cast uniformly strong.

Full Review | Original Score: 3/5 | Jan 24, 2013

Pacino alternando com fluidez entre momentos intensos e outros de introspeco, um roteiro bem construdo e um clmax inesquecvel.

Full Review | Original Score: 4/5 | Jul 24, 2010

years after watching it you'll have no idea what the central trial was all about... but you'll certainly remember that, whatever it was, it was out of order!

Full Review | Original Score: 3.5/5 | Mar 21, 2008

Pacino at the top of his game...[but] the film's lack of faith in its audience is glaringly apparent. [DVD review]

Full Review | Original Score: 2.5/4 | Mar 9, 2008

Al Pacino gives a dominant performance as a lawyer whose morals are compromised, but director Norman Jewison can't find the right balance between the critical and satirical elements of the legal system.

Full Review | Original Score: B- | Mar 1, 2008

Entertaining, with a vintage Pacino performance that only occasionally lapses into grandstanding.

Full Review | Original Score: B | Jul 23, 2007

Aims to do for the American judicial system what All the President's Men did for the presidency, and if Jewison had only maintained the tone of the superb original screenplay, he might have succeeded.

Full Review | Jun 24, 2006

And Justice for All (1979)

• User Reviews

Awards | FAQ | User Ratings | External Reviews | Metacritic Reviews

• User Ratings
• External Reviews
• Metacritic Reviews
• Full Cast and Crew
• Release Dates
• Official Sites
• Company Credits
• Filming & Production
• Technical Specs
• Plot Summary
• Plot Keywords
• Parents Guide

Did You Know?

• Crazy Credits
• Alternate Versions
• Connections
• Soundtracks

Photo & Video

• Photo Gallery
• Trailers and Videos

Related Items

• External Sites

Related lists from IMDb users

Recently Viewed

...And Justice for All (United States, 1979)

As common as lawyer-bashing has become, the most vicious cinematic attack on the profession occurred in 1979, when director Norman Jewison, writer Barry Levinson, and actor Al Pacino combined their talents to rake law and order across the coals in ...And Justice for All . Strictly speaking, the film is neither a satire nor a black comedy, but there are heavy shadings of each woven into the narrative. ...And Justice for All 's bleak, absurd look at lawyers would be hilarious if it wasn't so true-to-life.

Since the dawn of the talkie, there have been countless courtroom dramas, most of which have tended towards the sensationalistic side of mediocre. ...And Justice for All is not one of those movies. Although some of the action takes place in court, including one of the best-known trial sequences in the history of film (Pacino screaming, "You're out of order! This whole trial is out of order!"), the movie is more about morality and ethics than courtroom shenanigans. ...And Justice for All has no part in the stock trade of shock witnesses and surprising revelations. This is about how too many guilty people walk while the innocent take their places in overcrowded jails.

Pacino plays Arthur Kirkland, a defense attorney who has been in practice for twelve years. He has a good reputation, so his caseload is heavy. However, Kirkland isn't in the game for money, prestige, or power. He's one of those rare lawyers who believes in the judicial system and wants to help people. He'll spend a night in jail for contempt of court rather than let a judge ignore a crucial piece of evidence. Yet all of Kirkland's principles are about to be called into question when he is asked to defend a hard-line justice, Judge Fleming (John Forsythe), who is accused of rape. Kirkland's dislike of Fleming runs deep, but circumstances force the lawyer to take this case, which he should stay far away from.

Pacino earned an Academy Award nomination for his work in ...And Justice for All . However, of all his Oscar nominations, this is probably the least-deserved. Pacino's intensity is undeniable, but the actor, who always works on the seam between restraint and overacting, crosses the line a few times too often. In a scene where Kirkland learns that a client has hanged himself, Pacino's histrionics strike a false chord. Certainly, there are times when Pacino is excellent, but he is not consistently so.

...And Justice for All ends with the kind of bravura outburst by Pacino that one might easily assume is designed to entice cheers and applause from the audience. But there's a subtle difference between this finale and the cornball conclusion of a later Pacino picture, Scent of a Woman , which also featured a dynamic speech. Here, the actor's words radiate real outrage, and what he says caps the film's central ethical dilemma about a lawyer defending a man he knows to be guilty. This is a powerful, cathartic moment that's neither exhilarating nor uplifting. Like most of what precedes it, the climax of ...And Justice for All underscores Jewison's message about how hollow and diseased the process of law has become. We need look no further than the O.J. Simpson trial to understand everything this film is trying to say.

Comments Add Comment

• Cider House Rules, The (1999)
• Citizen Kane (1941)
• War Zone, The (1999)
• Hole in My Heart, A (2005)
• Neon Demon, The (2016)
• Showgirls (1995)
• Godfather Part II, The (1969)
• Godfather, The (1972)
• Glengarry Glen Ross (1992)
• 88 Minutes (2008)
• Righteous Kill (2008)
• Heat (1995)
• Charlie's Angels (2000)
• (There are no more better movies of John Forsythe)
• (There are no more worst movies of John Forsythe)
• Bullets over Broadway (1994)
• Bulworth (1998)
• 12 Angry Men (1957)
• While You Were Sleeping (1995)
• (There are no more worst movies of Jack Warden)

And Justice For All Review

01 Jan 1979

119 minutes

And Justice For All

Forced to defend a corrupt judge (John Forsythe) who actually confesses he's guilty of rape, Al Pacino offers a typically powerhouse performance ("This whole trial is out of order!") as the Baltimore attorney battling the corruption and mindless bureaucracy of the United States legal system in this sometimes successful satire.

Jewison directs with an overlit reportage style, while husband-and-wife writing team Barry Levinson and Valerie Curtin deliver a screenplay that for the most part resorts to cliché. Pacino's scorching performance won him an Oscar nomination for Best Actor, although he lost out to Jon Voight in Hal Ashby's Coming Home.

And Justice for All (1979)

Directed by norman jewison.

• AllMovie Rating 5
• User Ratings ( 0 )
• Your Rating
• Overview ↓
• User Reviews ↓
• Cast & Crew ↓
• Awards ↓
• Streams ↓
• Related ↓

Description by Wikipedia

...And Justice for All is a 1979 courtroom drama film, directed by Norman Jewison, and starring Al Pacino, Jack Warden, and John Forsythe. Lee Strasberg, Jeffrey Tambor, Christine Lahti, Craig T. Nelson, and Thomas G. Waites appear in supporting roles. The Oscar-nominated screenplay was written by Valerie Curtin and Barry Levinson.

The film includes a well-known scene in which Pacino's character shouts, "You're out of order! You're out of order! The whole trial is out of order! They're out of order!" It was filmed in Baltimore, including the courthouse area. It received two Academy Award nominations: Best Leading Actor (Pacino) and Best Original Screenplay (Curtin and Levinson).

Related Movies

Alternate Titles

. . . And Justice for All

Directed by Norman Jewison • 1979 • United States Starring Al Pacino, Jack Warden, John Forsythe

“You’re out of order!” Al Pacino electrifies in this scorching indictment of the justice system, a rousing blend of scathing satire and impassioned drama from socially conscious director Norman Jewison. Pacino plays Arthur Kirkland, a controversial young lawyer who has often butted heads with the corrupt judge Henry T. Fleming (John Forsythe). When the judge is accused of rape, Kirkland is surprisingly enlisted to defend him—plunging him into an explosive legal and ethical quagmire that will shake up the courtroom.

Share with your friends

“You’re out of order!” Al Pacino electrifies in this scorching indictment of the justice system, a rousing blend of scathing satire and impassioned drama from socially conscious director Norman Jewi...

🙌 Awesome, you're subscribed!

Thanks for subscribing! Look out for your first newsletter in your inbox soon!

Get us in your inbox

Sign up to our newsletter for the latest and greatest from your city and beyond

By entering your email address you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy and consent to receive emails from Time Out about news, events, offers and partner promotions.

Awesome, you're subscribed!

The best things in life are free.

Sign up for our email to enjoy your city without spending a thing (as well as some options when you’re feeling flush).

Déjà vu! We already have this email. Try another?

Love the mag?

Our newsletter hand-delivers the best bits to your inbox. Sign up to unlock our digital magazines and also receive the latest news, events, offers and partner promotions.

• Things to Do
• Food & Drink
• Arts & Culture
• Time Out Market
• Coca-Cola Foodmarks
• Los Angeles

...And justice for all

Time out says, release details.

• Duration: 119 mins

Cast and crew

• Director: Norman Jewison
• Screenwriter: Valerie Curtin, Barry Levinson
• Jeffrey Tambor
• Christine Lahti
• Jack Warden
• John Forsythe
• Lee Strasberg

Been there, done that? Think again, my friend.

Discover Time Out original video

• Press office
• Investor relations
• Work for Time Out
• Editorial guidelines
• Privacy notice
• Do not sell my information
• Cookie policy
• Accessibility statement
• Terms of use
• Modern slavery statement
• Manage cookies
• Advertising

Time Out Worldwide

• All Time Out Locations
• North America
• South America
• South Pacific

...And Justice for All (1979)

Movie Details

Stream & watch ...and justice for all.

Cast & Crew

Featured news.

Similar Movies

Movie Reviews

Follow Moviefone

Latest trailers.

• Small Law Firms
• Legal Technology
• Legal Tech Non-Event
• Job Listings
• Newsletters
• Law Schools
• The Legal Tech Non-Event
• Law Firm Transparency Directory
• Law Firm Rankings
• Law School Rankings
• Resource Library
• Practice Management
• CRM for Law Firms
• Legal Operations
• Clio App Integrations
• Practice Mgmt. by Practice Area
• Document Management
• Time, Billing & Payments
• Law Firm KPIs
• Cybersecurity
• Spend Management Software
• Legal AI Software
• Legal Tech Directory
• Appellate Court Blog

Above The Law In your inbox

Subscribe and get breaking news, commentary, and opinions on law firms, lawyers, law schools, lawsuits, judges, and more.

Standard Of Review: Revisiting The Classic Film '...And Justice For All'

Coming into the film, all i knew about …and justice for all was pacino’s famous and often spoofed “you’re out of order” speech..

If Al Pacino were a lawyer, he would be a venerable, respected senior partner at a law firm who had not actually done anything of note in decades. His colleagues would wax nostalgic about that amazing doc review he oversaw as a first year associate and that time he found a perfect case on point during his third year. However, his career would have devolved to merely walking up and down the halls yelling at everyone. Now that I think about it, that sounds a lot like a few senior partners at my firm.

Indeed, Al Pacino had perhaps the most auspicious beginning to his career as any actor in history. His third movie was The Godfather , and within a three-year span also starred in classics Serpico , The Godfather Part II , and Dog Day Afternoon .  Over the next 25 years, he gave great performances in Scarface , Glengarry Glen Ross , Scent of a Woman , Carlito’s Way , Heat , Donnie Brasco , and The Insider .

But then things began to slip. In 1999, he starred in Any Given Sunday , which is quite possibly my least favorite movie of all time (if I was not writing a legal-related column, I would certainly love to write a 5000-word opus on my issues with that film; I could probably write 1000 words alone on the opposing team in Any Given Sunday whose uniforms do not contain numbers in the front), and followed it up with such dreck as The Recruit , Gigli , Two for the Money , 88 Minutes , Righteous Kill , and Jack and Jill (though, to be fair, in 2003 he co-starred in the excellent HBO miniseries Angels in America ). Whenever I want to feel sad (but don’t feel like listening to “Transatlanticism” by Death Cab for Cutie), I peruse Pacino’s IMDB page and think about the career he could have had if he had picked better roles over the past 15 years.

Referral Fees The Key To Growing A Modern Practice? Overture Thinks So.

But I recently realized that I had never seen Pacino’s 1979 legal thriller …And Justice for All , for which Pacino was nominated for an Academy Award (he lost to Dustin Hoffman for another legal-related film, Kramer vs. Kramer ). I have not reviewed an older work since my inaugural column, so I thought that …And Justice for All would be a perfect film to watch over the holiday weekend.

Coming into the film, all I knew about …And Justice for All was Pacino’s famous and often spoofed “You’re out of order!” speech. I therefore read the film’s Netflix description, which is as follows:  “America’s justice system comes under indictment in director Norman Jewison’s penetrating film starring Al Pacino as upstanding attorney Arthur Kirkland, who’s tasked with defending a hard-line — and tainted — judge (John Forsythe) standing trial for rape.”

I wish that I had eschewed reading the Netflix description, because it is not particularly accurate (then why am I restating it for you, dear reader? If I had to suffer by reading the description, then you will also have to suffer!). Yes, it is true that tough Baltimore Judge Henry Fleming is accused of rape, and hires Arthur Kirkland (Pacino) as his defense attorney, despite the fact that the judge had refused to consider evidence that would have exonerated one of Kirkland’s other clients. But the movie is barely about the defense of Judge Fleming. The judge isn’t even accused of rape until 39 minutes into the film. Kirkland does not agree to take his case until almost 20 minutes later. Kirkland probably spends less than 15 minutes of the film’s running time investigating and trying the case.

Instead, the film actually follows a plethora of Kirkland’s cases in order to examine the inefficiencies of the Baltimore legal system. One of Kirkland’s clients unfairly receives jail time because of arbitrary deadlines. Another of Kirkland’s clients receives jail time because Kirkland’s colleague shows up late to a hearing. The city’s ethics committee blackmails Kirkland. Kirkland’s partner Jay Porter (Jeffrey Tambor, with a full head of hair and awesome sideburns) slowly descends into madness due to the realization that he helped violent criminals avoid prison. All of these vignettes, while short, act a precursor to The Wire , as it scathingly explores institutional failure in the justice system.

How To Maximize Productivity With Westlaw Precision With CoCounsel

New Report - Are Small Firms Achieving Their Legal Tech Goals?

Not all of it works. Occasionally the film is a bit heavy-handed, particularly the opening credits, in which children read the Pledge of Allegiance over scenes of an empty courtroom. On the other end of the spectrum, Jack Warden plays wacky Judge Francis Rayford, who (among other things) literally shoots a gun in a courtroom, crashes a helicopter because he intentionally did not fuel it properly, eats lunch with his feet dangling over the courtroom roof, and attempts to shoot himself with a rifle (all played for laughs). Every scene with Judge Rayford is farcical and tonally inconsistent with the rest of the film’s verisimilitude. The scene where Judge Rayford shoots a gun in court à la Yosemite Sam is especially egregious, as everyone shrugs it off like it is a normal occurrence. It almost makes the “Die Bart, Die” courtroom scene from the classic The Simpsons episode “Cape Feare” look realistic by comparison (“That’s German for ‘The Bart, The.’”).

As for Pacino, while his performance is famous for the iconic “You’re out of order!” scene, he does more than just yell. My favorite moment was when he delivers an intense and searing (and calm!) monologue to his girlfriend Gail Packer (Christine Lahti) about the miscarriage of justice that has befallen his clients. It was refreshing to be reminded that Pacino was once one of the finest actors in the world, and …And Justice for All makes great use of his talents. I guess I should give the senior partners at my firm more credit for being great lawyers…

Harry Graff is a litigation associate at a firm, but he spends days wishing that he was writing about film, television, literature, and pop culture instead of writing briefs. If there is a law-related movie, television show, book, or any other form of media that you would like Harry Graff to discuss, he can be reached at [email protected] . Be sure to follow Harry Graff on Twitter at @harrygraff19 .

Attention Buyer: Not All Legal AI Models Are Created Equal

Powerful Branding Strategies and Marketing Tips for Small Law Firms

...And Justice For All , Al Pacino , Harry Graff , Movies

300+ Provider Organizations Urge Feds To Prevent Leaked DEA Rule From Going Into Effect

More from above the law.

Alina Habba Gets Her Own Hush Money Agreement

One Of America's Most Consequential Lawyers Officially Endorses Kamala Harris For President

Australia’s Anti-Misinformation Laws Target Twitter

The Power Of Self-Advocacy 

From the above the law network.

• A Law Firm Checklist For Successful Client Portals Source: Thomson Reuters
• A Law Firm Checklist For Successful Transaction Management Source: Thomson Reuters
• Document Automation For Law Firms: The Definitive Guide Source: THOMSON REUTERS
• The Secrets Of Small Firm Success Source: Above The Law
• 5 Things To Consider Before Hiring A Legal Marketing Partner Source: THOMSON REUTERS
• How You Can Use Tech To Strengthen Client Ties Source: Thomson Reuters And Above The Law
• Differentiating Your Solo Firm In A Crowded Marketplace Source: Thomson Reuters & Above the Law
• This Is Why You Don’t Take Law Advice From Twitter — See Also Source: Associate Center

Love ATL? Let's make it official. Sign up for our newsletter.

Friend's Email Address

Your Email Address

Once upon a screen…

…a classic film and tv blog.

• Posted on July 28, 2015 June 14, 2016

…AND JUSTICE FOR ALL (1979)

As much as I love Coppola ‘s Godfather films and  Lumet ‘s Serpico (1973) and Dog Day Afternoon (1975), films that star Al Pacino and that helped distinguish him among the best actors of his generation, it is without fail that the first film that comes to mind when Pacino is mentioned is the 1979 satirical courtroom drama …And Justice For All directed by Norman Jewison .  While not a perfect film by any means . ..And Justice For All features one of my favorite Pacino performances, an impressive supporting cast and one of the most iconic, memorable and most parodied endings in film.

Before I get started…and housekeeping for all…

• I don’t want you to yell about my being “Out of order” so I warn that you should proceed with caution – spoilers lie ahead!
• This post is my contribution to the Argumentative August Blogathon , which features a compilation of commentaries on cinema’s best courtroom dramas.  Hosted by MovieRob and Ten Stars or Less  this event is sure to entertain so please visit the host sites lest they hold you in contempt.

So – is …And Justice For All one of the greatest courtroom dramas of all time?  Probably not, but it is memorable.  And while the title of the blogging event is “argumentative” I think this particular film offers a somewhat unique perspective or spin on that.  I mean the film is undeniably argumentative, but it is in effect “arguing” throughout its narrative instead of during a particular courtroom scene.  In fact, the film’s famous, tumultuous ending, which features Arthur Kirkland (Al Pacino) losing control while defending a guilty client on a rape charge encompasses no argument at all.  It ends with his opening statement, which is a doozie!  More on that in a bit.

To start – what …And Justice For All argues against is the system, justice itself, which as we see and hear is not blind and can be easily bought.  What matters in this world is not justice, but power.  The latter often disguised as the former.  In addition, the film shows in no uncertain terms that even when system participants follow the letter of the law, do their jobs because they care the system still fails.  Unless you have power.  So the film’s title, which is taken from the last line of the “Pledge of Allegiance”…

“I pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America, and to the republic for which it stands, one nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all .”

…is clearly satirical once you view the movie.  “Justice for all” doesn’t exist and while Jewison’s film, which has an Oscar-nominated screenplay by Valerie Curtin and Barry Levinson , does an effective job demonstrating that fact one can argue that it is also its flaw.  This movie throws a lot at you and there’s no mistaking the flaws in the system, which result in comedy of the most grotesque kind.  If you even want to call it comedy, which many do.  And perhaps that’s how this was intended.  I, however, can’t quite get there.  While there are many outrageous moments of the comedic kind I take this film seriously.  It breaks my heart in many instances each and every time I see it.  One scene is particularly heartbreaking – Arthur Kirkland reacts to the fact that one of his clients hanged himself needlessly, due to the negligence of another lawyer who tries to shrug it off.  And Arthur’s cries of “they’re people” hits home every time.  The system has taken precedence over why they are all there.

Arthur Kirkland’s world…

The entire sordid legal world of …And Justice For All revolves around Pacino’s character.  Arthur Kirkland is a young idealistic defense attorney who’s put twelve years into a profession that consistently tests morals and ethics, if it doesn’t destroy them completely.  We are made privy to Kirkland’s family, which is made up of one man, his grandfather Sam (played by Pacino mentor and collaborator, Lee Strasberg ).  Sam raised Arthur and put him through law school.  Arthur’s becoming a lawyer was Sam’s dream and the younger man’s standards are based on the importance the elder places on honesty, what being a lawyer “should” stand for.  These standards stay true in Arthur who still believes in the idea and possibility of justice for all despite all he’s experienced that proves the contrary.  It’s no coincidence that when Arthur begins to fall apart, when he’s no longer sure of why he practices law that it coincides with his grandfather’s deteriorating health and increased memory loss.  The old man can no longer even remember that Arthur is a lawyer and so the younger has no one to hurt but himself if his career is threatened.

By the way a special mention must go to Sam Levene who plays Arnie, Arthur’s grandfather’s best friend at the old-age home where the two reside.   …And Justice For All is Levene’s last film, ending a stage and screen career that lasted six decades.  Levene’s is a recognizable face in many classic films as was the case with so many of our favorite character actors.  He also originated the Nathan Detroit part in the original, 1950 Broadway production of “Guys and Dolls,” which is fairly fantastic.

Anyway – back to the movie – next we meet Arthur Kirkland’s partner and best friend, Jay Porter ( Jeffrey Tambor in his first feature film).  We see definitive signs of the wear and tear caused from being a caring defense attorney in Jay Porter whose sanity is frayed upon learning a man he’d defended successfully for murder killed two children.  We get some of the film’s comedy by way of the Porter character, but Jay also serves up some heartbreak as his pain is clearly visible through the mania.

Mr. Kirkland also has dealings with the prominent Judge Francis Rayford played by one of my favorite actors, Jack Warden .  Rayford is a freak, to put it mildly.  Stern and authoritative on the bench this Judge gets his thrills by trying out all sorts of suicide methods from spending time in his chambers with a rifle in his mouth straining to reach the trigger (or whatever you call it), having lunch out on the ledge of his several-story-high office window to flying helicopters to the point where he might run out of gas just to see if he can make it.  Judge Rayford is the most outrageous character in the movie, quite unbelievably so in fact, but he serves to prove how those who judge the system do so disproportionately and unfairly.

Among those whose job it is to judge the system is Arthur Kirkland’s love interest, Gail Packer ( Christine Lahti ) who’s on the ethics committee.  She and those of her ilk have a major issue with lawyers like Jay Porter who may be temporarily incapacitated due to job-related difficulties, but ignore suicidal judges who regularly carry guns into the courtroom like Rayford.  We must stand on Arthur’s side on this – how does any of it make sense?

And then there’s the all-powerful, highly regarded, honorable Henry T. Fleming ( John Forsythe ) who goes so far up the letter of the law that people mean absolutely nothing to him.  The ethics committee deems Judge Fleming a pillar among his peers, but the judge is detested by most everyone else.  Arthur Kirkland in particular.

When …And Justice For All opens Arthur Kirkland is in jail for contempt of court after having thrown a punch at Judge Fleming.  Arthur was in Fleming’s court arguing the case of one Jeff McCullaugh ( Thomas G. Waites ), a young man who was stopped for a busted tail light, was mistaken for another man with the same name and arrested for murder.  McCullaugh has been jailed by this time for a year and a half and Arthur has proof of his innocence, which Fleming refuses to allow because it was presented two days late.  So an innocent man sits in jail because of Fleming’s penchant for the letter of the law.

As the main storyline unfolds – the Arthur Kirkland-Judge Fleming rivalry – we see innocent Jeff McCullaugh succumbing to the systematic abuse inherent in most prisons.  Until Jeff finally snaps.  Eventually the young man is killed after a hostage situation that results from his abuse.  He cannot take it anymore.  All the while proof of his innocence is available.

In the meantime Judge Henry T. Fleming is arrested and accused of the brutal assault and rape of a young woman.  This pillar of the system is accused of a heinous crime.  To everyone’s surprise Fleming requests Arthur Kirkland as his defense attorney.  The Judge’s thinking is that if he is represented by the ethical Kirkland who also happens to detest him then surely most would buy into his innocence.  Kirkland resists defending the Judge at first, but the system shows up to bite him when Fleming’s people blackmail him with an old violation of lawyer-client privilege for which he’d be disbarred.  In addition, Arthur is reminded by both Judge Rayford and Gail Packer that he should just do his job, which is to defend a client to the best of his ability.  It shouldn’t matter who the client is.  And so Arthur Kirkland signs up to defend the Honorable Henry T. Fleming, who it must be said is played exceptionally slimy by John Forsythe.

So the preparations for Fleming’s defense are under way and the Judge makes it clear to Arthur that he’s still in charge treating the attorney like a law clerk while the accused dictates the terms.  Arthur is not thrilled with the arrangement to put it mildly, but he can’t complain about the strength of his case.  It’s airtight.  There are eye witnesses, a successful polygraph and…well, you name it.  In fact, it’s all too clean.  And while Arthur can’t put his finger on what smells he knows Fleming’s guilty.  Or – at the very least – wants him to be guilty so badly that he can taste it.  Then one day Arthur’s suspicions are proven right when one of his other clients, Carl Travers ( Dominic Chianese ) gives him photographs of Judge Fleming in rather incriminating bondage-style sexual escapades with a prostitute.   Not good, right?  Well, the Judge is not bothered at all when Arthur shows him the photos.  In fact, with a smug smirk smeared on his face the Judge freely admits to the assault and rape he is being tried for.  Fleming adds fuel to the ever-sickening fire when as the trial opens he looks over to the frightened young woman who he’s accused of battering and raping and casually admits to Arthur he wouldn’t mind doing it again.  That’s just before Arthur Kirkland has to deliver his opening remarks in defense of the Honorable Henry T. Fleming.

Kirkland stands in front of the jury and starts off his memorable monologue in classic style.  Everything points to an effective defense during which he mocks the state’s case.  Then the tides turn.  It’s subtle.  He goes to motive.  What has kept him up at night – he says – is wondering  why the young woman would lie about being raped by a powerful judge.  She has nothing to gain by doing that.  It’s still subtle, but Arthur Kirkland is suffering – the end of his law career is near.  The only sign of his torment at this point are the tears that stream down his face.  Otherwise he remains impassive.

Then Arthur does the unthinkable.  And one of the most memorable courtroom scenes in cinema results.

Al Pacino received a well-deserved Oscar nomination for his portrayal of Arthur Kirkland.  And he just delivered an opening statement.

Share this:

• Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Pinterest (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Reddit (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Pocket (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Tumblr (Opens in new window)
• Click to email a link to a friend (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on LinkedIn (Opens in new window)

Very good movie! I saw it when it first came out and didn’t realize it had all those “future stars” in it. Good review!

Haven’t seen this one yet, but love Pacino.

You definitely should and let me know what you think. 🙂

It’s a bit sandbagged by all the flaws coming one on top of the other, but it is very entertaining and dramatic. Once in a while it is great to see a character just lose it and rant about what is true, regardless of the consequences. This is the first post I’ve seen in the argumentative blogathon. I have one going up for that project by Thursday. This was a great post on the theme.

Reblogged this on Ten Stars or Less .

Reblogged this on and commented: As we’re getting very close to the end of this Argumentative August Blogathon, Here’s a great review of And Justice For All (1979) by Aurora of Once Upon A Screen

• Pingback: MOVIE REVIEW | …And Justice for All (1979) – Bored and Dangerous
• Pingback: I Challenge You to #PayClassicsForward for Christmas – Once upon a screen…
• Pingback: Cuba in the Movies – Once upon a screen…

Leave a comment Cancel reply

• Already have a WordPress.com account? Log in now.
• Subscribe Subscribed
• Copy shortlink
• Report this content
• View post in Reader
• Manage subscriptions
• Collapse this bar

• Share full article

Advertisement

Supported by

Screen: Al Pacino in '...and Justice for All':Sorts of Breakdowns

By Vincent Canby

• Oct. 19, 1979

NORMAN JEWISON'S new comedy about the bitter awakening of an idealistic young Baltimore lawyer, ". . . and Justice for All," pretends to be about the shortcomings in our judicial system, but it's really an extended introduction in how to lose control, have a nervous breakdown, go crazy, commit suicide and perform other antisocial acts.When we first see Arthur Kirkland (Al Pacino), the selfless young lawyer who still believes in the theoretical possibility of justice, he is spending a few hours in the lockup for contempt of court. That afternoon, during a hearing, Arthur had lost his temper and threatened the judge with bodily harm. Clearly Arthur doesn't have a grip on himself. Nor, for that matter, does his friend Judge Rayford (Jack Warden), who is a good jurist but a bad risk. When he's not sitting on the bench, Judge Rayford plays Russian roulette with — among other things — a shotgun because, we are led to believe, a judge's life is such a terrible one. Decisions. Decisions.Then there's Arthur's partner, Jay Porter (Jeffrey Tambor), who, like Arthur, spends his life defending people who are often guilty. Poor Jay once prided himself on winning an acquittal for a man he knew to be guilty of murder. When Jay learns the same man has run right out and disemboweled two small children, he suddenly goes to pieces. First he shaves his head. A few days later, he runs amok in the Criminal Court Building, throwing crockery at the guards, other lawyers, judges, policemen and casual passers-by.With the exception of two old men, one of whom is senile, all of the characters in " . . . and Justice for All" have such low thresholds of emotional distress that I wouldn't trust one of them to see "The Sound of Music" unless accompanied by a parent or adult guardian. They dress sloppily. They talk dirty. Yet they are of an innocence that boggles the mind and sinks the movie.I suspect that Valerie Curtin and Barry Levinson, who wrote the original screenplay, and Mr. Jewison, who directed it, might have conceived " . . . and Justice for All" as what Hollywood rather loosely calls "a black comedy," because it attempts to locate humor in matters that are obviously grotesque. I also imagine there were more than a few references to "Catch-22" and "M*A*S*H" in the course of interminable story conferences. What they've come up with, though, is not a satire, but a demonstration of hysteria that, being hysterical, satirizes nothing, having no direction and no point of view.Everybody in this movie is at his wit's end: Arthur because Judge Fleming (John Forsythe) won't release an innocent prisoner for technical reasons; the innocent prisoner (Thomas Waites) because he has been in prison for almost two years, on a traffic violation, and is getting raped frequently; Judge Fleming because he's psychotyic and has just been charged with the rape of a very young woman; a black transvestite (Robert Christian) because he's being sent to prison for three years on a robbery charge and doesn't want to go, as well as Judge Rayford and Jay Porter for the reasons cited above.Nearly sane are a pretty lawyer (Christine Lahti), though she sleeps with Arthur while sitting on a committee that is investigating Arthur's ethics; Arthur's senile old grandpa (Lee Strasberg), and grandpa's best friend (Sam Levene).The big moral question facing Arthur is whether or not he should defend the rapist-judge. Because the judge has political connections, Arthur is threatened with disbarment if he stands by his principles and refuses. This might be a valid quandary if Arthur weren't such a hyperventillating idiot to start with. In this movie, it's not a moral problem, only one of plot.With the exception of Mr. Strasberg and Mr. Levene, the actors are as hysterical as their material. When the movie opens, Mr. Pacino is behaving as if he were at the end of his rope, which leaves him no place to go except crazy with moral indignation. Miss Lahti is attractive but, along with everyone else, has been directed to play it as if she were in the last act of "Three Men on a Horse."The screenplay has one funny exchange. When Arthur is called before the ethics committee, he asks why they have to use microphones when there are only five people in a small room. "Well," one of the inquisitors says, "this is a hearing."Other than that, the screenplay and the direction are a complete muddle. If you follow what seems to be the film's feeble point to its logical end, it is that our judicial system is rotten not only because of the people who administer it, but also because it provides safeguards for the accused. The next step, one should think, is a nice, predictable law-and-order state.I can't be sure, however. " . . . and Justice for All," which opens today at Loews Tower East and other theaters, is in the throes of a nervous breakdown from beginning to end.

Sorts of Breakdowns

. . . AND JUSTICE FOR ALL, directed by Norman Jewison; written by Valerie Curtin and Barry Levinson; director of photography. Victor J. Kemper; edited by John F. Burnett; music by Dave Grusin; produced by Mr. Jewison and Patrick Palmer; released by Columbia Pictures. At Loews Tower East, 72d Street and Third Avenue; Loews State 2, Broadway and West 45th Street, and other theaters. Running time: 120 minutes. This film is rated R.Arthur Kirkland . . . . . Al PacinoJudge Rayford . . . . . Jack WardenJudge Fleming . . . . . John ForsytheGrandpa Sam . . . . . Lee StrasbergJay Porter . . . . . Jeffrey TamborGail Packer . . . . . Christine LahtiArnie . . . . . Sam LeveneRalph Agee . . . . . Robert ChristianJeff McCullaugh . . . . . Thomas WaitesWarren Fresneli . . . . . Larry BryggmanFrank Bowers . . . . . Craig T. NelsonCarl Travers . . . . . Dominic ChianeseLeo Fauci . . . . . Victor ArnoldOfficer Leary . . . . . Vincent BeckElderly Man . . . . . Michael GorrinLarry . . . . . Baxter HarrisPrison Doctor . . . . . Joe Morton

We are having trouble retrieving the article content.

Please enable JavaScript in your browser settings.

Thank you for your patience while we verify access. If you are in Reader mode please exit and  log into  your Times account, or  subscribe  for all of The Times.

Thank you for your patience while we verify access.

Already a subscriber?  Log in .

Want all of The Times?  Subscribe .

38 Facts About The Movie …and Justice For All.

Written by Licha Sheehan

Modified & Updated: 01 Jun 2024

Reviewed by Jessica Corbett

If you’re a fan of courtroom dramas, then you’re probably familiar with the iconic film “…And Justice for All”. Released in 1979, this gripping legal thriller directed by Norman Jewison has captivated audiences for decades. Starring Al Pacino in a powerful performance, the movie delves into the flawed justice system, exposing corruption and the struggle for truth.

In this article, we will take a deep dive into the movie and uncover 38 fascinating facts that you may not know . From behind-the-scenes anecdotes to interesting trivia about the cast and crew, we’ll provide you with an in-depth look into the making of this acclaimed film . So, grab your gavel, put on your legal cap, and get ready to learn some intriguing tidbits about “…And Justice for All”!

Key Takeaways:

• Al Pacino’s mesmerizing performance and the thought-provoking script of “…And Justice for All” shed light on the flaws and moral dilemmas within the legal system, sparking important discussions about justice and corruption.
• The film’s intense courtroom scenes, powerful performances, and relevant themes continue to captivate audiences, making it a must-watch for legal drama enthusiasts and anyone who appreciates thought-provoking films.

Al Pacino delivers a mesmerizing performance.

Al Pacino, known for his intense acting style, brings his A-game to the role of Arthur Kirkland, an ethical defense attorney caught in a web of corruption.

The screenplay was written by Barry Levinson and Valerie Curtin.

Barry Levinson and Valerie Curtin teamed up to create a thought-provoking script that explores the flaws and injustices within the legal system.

Norman Jewison directed the film.

Renowned director Norman Jewison skillfully captures the tension and moral dilemmas faced by the characters in “…And Justice for All.”

The movie tackles controversial themes.

“…And Justice for All” delves into subjects like corruption, moral ambiguity, and the struggle for justice, sparking important discussions.

Arthur Kirkland is faced with an impossible choice.

In the film, Kirkland must decide whether to defend a judge he despises or let an innocent man suffer the consequences of a rigged trial.

The movie showcases Al Pacino’s exceptional courtroom monologues.

Pacino’s powerful speeches have become some of the most iconic moments in film history, showcasing his incredible talent and range as an actor.

The film received two Academy Award nominations.

“…And Justice for All” was nominated for Best Original Screenplay and Best Actor in a Leading Role for Al Pacino’s compelling performance.

The score was composed by Dave Grusin.

The captivating musical score adds depth and emotion to the film’s intense courtroom scenes and dramatic moments.

The movie explores the concept of moral decay in society.

“…And Justice for All” shines a light on the erosion of ethics and values within the legal system and beyond.

The script was inspired by real-life experiences.

Barry Levinson drew inspiration from his own encounters with the legal system, adding an authentic touch to the film.

The film features a talented ensemble cast.

Aside from Al Pacino, the movie boasts an impressive cast including Jack Warden, John Forsythe, and Christine Lahti , who deliver stellar performances.

The movie’s famous line: “You’re out of order!”

One of the most memorable lines from “…And Justice for All” is Al Pacino’s passionate outburst in the courtroom, becoming an enduring cinematic moment.

The film’s cinematography captures the intensity.

The camerawork and lighting techniques heighten the tension, creating a visually gripping experience for the audience.

“…And Justice for All” has become a cult classic.

The film has garnered a dedicated following over the years for its thought-provoking themes and powerful performances.

The movie had a significant impact on the legal profession.

“…And Justice for All” prompted discussions among lawyers and legal professionals about the flaws and corruption present in the system.

Al Pacino’s portrayal of Arthur Kirkland is ranked among his best performances.

Pacino’s complex and nuanced depiction of the morally conflicted attorney remains a standout performance in his illustrious career.

The movie’s title is derived from the Pledge of Allegiance.

The title reinforces the concept of justice being a fundamental tenet of a fair and democratic society .

The film explores the concept of injustice within the legal system.

“…And Justice for All” exposes the inequities and failures of the criminal justice system , raising important questions about its integrity.

The movie features tense courtroom scenes.

The courtroom sequences are filled with suspense and drama, keeping viewers on the edge of their seats.

The film raises ethical dilemmas for the characters.

The characters in “…And Justice for All” are faced with tough choices that challenge their principles and integrity.

The movie’s release sparked conversations about the legal system.

“…And Justice for All” ignited discussions about the need for reform and fairness within the justice system.

The film emphasizes the importance of fighting for justice.

“…And Justice for All” serves as a reminder to stand up against corruption and oppression in pursuit of a just society.

The movie received critical acclaim.

Critics praised the film for its powerful performances, gripping storytelling, and thought-provoking themes.

The set design meticulously recreates courtrooms and law offices.

The attention to detail in the film’s production design adds authenticity to the legal settings depicted in the movie.

Al Pacino’s performance is filled with intensity and emotional depth.

Pacino’s portrayal of Arthur Kirkland is a tour de force, showcasing his ability to convey a wide range of emotions.

The movie explores the consequences of compromising one’s values.

“…And Justice for All” delves into the moral dilemmas that arise when individuals abandon their ethical principles for personal gain.

The film’s climactic courtroom scene is a memorable moment.

The tension reaches its peak as the trial reaches its climax, leaving audiences captivated by the outcome.

The movie’s narrative explores the limits of the legal system.

Through its gripping storyline, “…And Justice for All” challenges the idea of justice being solely achieved through the law.

The film’s pacing keeps audiences engaged.

“…And Justice for All” expertly balances moments of intense drama with lighter comedic touches, ensuring viewers remain invested throughout.

The movie’s themes remain relevant today.

The issues raised in “…And Justice for All” still resonate in modern society, reminding us of the ongoing fight for justice.

The film highlights the power dynamics within the legal system.

“…And Justice for All” sheds light on the hierarchy and manipulation that often occur behind the scenes in courtrooms.

The movie’s ending leaves room for interpretation.

The open-ended conclusion of “…And Justice for All” allows viewers to reflect on the characters’ choices and the complexities of justice.

The film serves as a critique of the justice system.

“…And Justice for All” raises important questions about the flaws and biases that can undermine the pursuit of truth and fairness.

The screenplay is filled with witty and thought-provoking dialogue.

The sharp and intelligent writing adds depth to the characters, making their conversations compelling and memorable.

The movie’s critical success led to a boost in legal dramas.

Following the release of “…And Justice for All,” there was an increase in the production of films and TV shows centered around legal themes.

The film’s costume design reflects the characters’ personalities.

The costumes in “…And Justice for All” help visually distinguish the characters and convey their individual traits and motivations.

The movie challenges the audience’s perception of right and wrong.

“…And Justice for All” blurs the boundaries between moral absolutes, forcing viewers to question their own beliefs about justice.

The legacy of “…And Justice for All” lives on.

As a groundbreaking legal drama, this film continues to captivate audiences and spark discussions about the flaws and complexities of the justice system.

So, there you have it – 38 fascinating facts about the movie “…And Justice for All.” Whether you’re a fan of legal dramas or simply appreciate thought-provoking films, this courtroom thriller is a must-watch. Immerse yourself in the gripping performances, the morally charged storyline, and the unforgettable moments that make this movie a true cinematic gem.

…and justice for all is a gripping legal drama that captivates audiences with its powerful performances, thought-provoking storyline, and exploration of the flaws within the justice system. Through its compelling characters and intense courtroom scenes, the movie sheds light on the complexities of the legal world and challenges viewers to question the notion of justice itself.

With its unforgettable performances by Al Pacino and an ensemble cast, …and justice for all continues to be celebrated as a timeless classic that delves deep into the moral dilemmas faced by lawyers, judges , and defendants. The film’s exploration of corruption, moral ambiguity, and the pursuit of justice remains relevant even decades after its release.

Whether you’re a fan of legal dramas or simply interested in thought-provoking movies, …and justice for all is a must-watch. It will leave you pondering the state of the justice system and the ethical choices individuals face within it.

1. Who directed …and justice for all?

…and justice for all was directed by Norman Jewison .

2. When was …and justice for all released?

The film was released on October 19, 1979.

3. Who are the main cast members of …and justice for all?

The main cast includes Al Pacino, Jack Warden, John Forsythe , Lee Strasberg, and Christine Lahti.

4. Is …and justice for all based on a true story?

No, the movie is a work of fiction.

5. What is the genre of …and justice for all?

The film falls into the genres of drama, crime, and thriller.

6. Did …and justice for all receive any awards?

Yes, the film received two Academy Award nominations – Best Actor for Al Pacino and Best Original Screenplay.

7. Where was …and justice for all filmed?

The movie was primarily filmed in Baltimore, Maryland.

8. What is the runtime of …and justice for all?

The runtime of the film is approximately 1 hour and 59 minutes.

If you're captivated by the world of cinema and legal dramas, don't miss our other fascinating articles. Dive into the life and career of the incomparable Al Pacino , explore the gripping twists and turns of the legal thriller "The Firm" , and uncover the riveting secrets behind the iconic courtroom drama "The Verdict" . Each article offers a wealth of intriguing facts and insights that will deepen your appreciation for these cinematic masterpieces and the talented individuals who brought them to life.

Was this page helpful?

Our commitment to delivering trustworthy and engaging content is at the heart of what we do. Each fact on our site is contributed by real users like you, bringing a wealth of diverse insights and information. To ensure the highest standards of accuracy and reliability, our dedicated editors meticulously review each submission. This process guarantees that the facts we share are not only fascinating but also credible. Trust in our commitment to quality and authenticity as you explore and learn with us.

Share this Fact:

FOLLOW US ON

Officer Black Belt (Korean) Movie Review: Kim Woo Bin and Kim Sung Kyun ditch fun for justice to navigate morality and duty in compelling crime drama

OFFICER BLACK BELT is a good mix of great performances and a thought-provoking story.

Officer Black Belt (Korean) Review {3/5}

Star Cast: Kim Woo Bin, Kim Sung Kyun

Officer Black Belt Movie Review Synopsis: OFFICER BLACK BELT tells the story of Lee Jeong Do (Kim Woo Bin), a young fellow who seeks fun in anything he does. He knows all types of martial arts, plays e-sports, and helps his father at the restaurant, only because he thinks it brings him fun. He is reliable and honest in his approach. One day on his way back to e-sports from his father’s restaurant, he sees a former now-released criminal physically injuring his parole officer. Jeong Do rushes to help and is rewarded. He is offered a job as a martial arts officer to keep tabs on recently released criminals. He takes a trial run and finds that the job gives him satisfaction like never before. He diligently works towards keeping the criminals in check. Along with his boss Kim Seon Min (Kim Sung Kyun) and his team, he fights against a serial offender and succeeds in saving young girls.

Officer Black Belt Movie Story Review: OFFICER BLACK BELT is a decent watch to kick off the weekend. The movie is an action comedy that moves into a much more serious territory as the story progresses. The once-laid-back Lee Jeong Do (Kim Woo Bin) matures and leaves his pursuit for ‘fun’ behind when he sees wrong happening in front of his eyes. The movie shows what happens within the legal system once any criminal completes their sentence. What makes the movie further great is that it gives an unbiased view of both sides. We see criminals who want to restart their life and we also see criminals who do not learn their lesson at all.

Officer Black Belt Movie Performances: Seeing Kim Woo Bin return to the screen is indeed a cinematic pleasure. His portrayal of Lee Jeong Do is a testament to his skill, bringing depth and nuance to the role. At first glance, Jeong-do might evoke memories of Kim Woo Bin’s earlier character in Twenty , who was marked by a carefree attitude and a penchant for seeking fun. However, Jeong Do’s evolution showcases a broader range, revealing a more complex and introspective side.

Kim Sung Kyun, known for his roles as a paternal figure or senior office worker, steps into the shoes of Kim Seon Min with a compelling sense of justice and dedication to securing safety for future generations. His portrayal enriches the narrative by infusing it with a strong moral compass and a genuine concern for societal well-being. Despite the brevity of the character’s arc, Kim Seon Min’s development is marked by a credible and heartfelt commitment to his principles.

The supporting cast complements the leads with solid performances, steering clear of cliché or stereotype. Their portrayals add authenticity and depth to the narrative, contributing to a well-rounded ensemble.

Officer Black Belt Movie music and other technical aspects: Director Jason Kim’s storytelling, while predictable in parts, effectively highlights the protagonist’s gradual moral awakening, aligning with his previous works in creating a relatable hero’s journey. Most of the movie gets its music from the sounds we hear in daily life. Some soundtracks are attached to the scenes that have more of non-verbal cues. Movies like OFFICER BLACK BELT relies on minimal sound score to elevate the intensity of any scene. The editing and transition between the scenes is crisp and clean, and keeps the viewer engaged throughout. Jason Kim, who gave us hits like MIDNIGHT RUNNERS, THE DIVINE FURY, BLOODHOUNDS, gives another jolting story with OFFICER BLACK BELT . The cinematography is done well and leaves ample space for the landscape and the actors to breathe life into the story.

Officer Black Belt Movie Review Conclusion: OFFICER BLACK BELT serves as a thrilling watch for those who like to go beyond regular crime procedural dramas. This movie sits in line with the likes of D.P . starring Jung Hae In and Koo Kyo Hwan where we see a side to the law and justice system that is rarely spoken about in the masses. The movie’s runtime is just about 110 minutes, making it a good fit for an OTT viewing experience. Kim Woo Bin and Kim Sung Kyun’s performances take the story a notch higher.  While the film's latter half may rely on conventional action beats, its earlier exploration of ethical dilemmas and personal growth ensures it remains thought-provoking and enjoyable. For those seeking a blend of action and meaningful character development, OFFICER BLACK BELT delivers a satisfying experience; offers both an entertaining and thought-provoking watch.

Watch the trailer for OFFICER BLACK BELT here:

BOLLYWOOD NEWS - LIVE UPDATES

Catch us for latest Bollywood News , New Bollywood Movies update, Box office collection , New Movies Release , Bollywood News Hindi , Entertainment News , Bollywood Live News Today & Upcoming Movies 2024 and stay updated with latest hindi movies only on Bollywood Hungama.

• Facebook Comments
• Kahan Shuru Kahan Khatam Movie
• Yudhra Movie
• Dhaak Movie
• Binny And Family Movie
• Devara: Part 1 Movie
• Hindi-Vindi Movie
• Vettaiyan Movie
• Jigra Movie
• Vicky Vidya Ka Woh Wala Video Movie
• Badass Ravikumar Movie
• Sector 36 Review
• The Buckingham Murders Review
• Berlin Review
• Thangalaan Review
• Visfot Review
• Alien: Romulus (English) Review
• Khel Khel Mein Review
• Vedaa Review
• Stree 2 Review
• Phir Aayi Hasseen Dillruba Review
• Bad Newz Public Review
• Chandu Champion Public Review
• Crew Public Review
• Teri Baaton Mein Aisa Uljha Jiya Public Review
• Fighter Public Review
• Salaar Public Review
• Dunki Public Review
• Animal Public Review
• Sam Bahadur Public Review
• Tiger 3 Public Review
• Alien: Romulus (English) Box Office
• Problem Toh Hai Box Office
• Harold And The Purple Crayon (English) Box Office
• Blink Twice (English) Box Office
• Khel Khel Mein Box Office
• Vedaa Box Office
• Stree 2 Box Office
• Double Ismart Box Office
• Aliya Basu Gayab Hai Box Office
• Ghuspaithiya Box Office
• Akshay Kumar
• Katrina Kaif
• Ranveer Singh
• Deepika Padukone
• Vaani Kapoor
• Salman Khan
• Rashmika Mandanna
• John Abraham
• Ayushmann Khurrana
• Tara Sutaria
• Rajkummar Rao
• Box Office Collection
• Analysis & Features
• All Time Top Grossers
• Overseas Box Office
• 100 Crore club
• 200 Crore club
• Top Actress
• Box Office Collection 2023
• Box Office Collection 2022
• Box Office Collection 2021
• Box Office Collection 2020
• Bollywood News
• Featured Movie News
• Latest Box Office News
• Box Office Updates
• Box Office Business Talk
• Box Office Overseas News
• Latest News Slideshows
• Upcoming Releases
• Movie Reviews
• Bollywood Hindi News
• Parties and Events
• Latest Celeb Photos
• Celeb Wallpapers
• Movie Stills
• Movie Wallpapers
• Top Movie Video Songs
• Celebrity Interview Videos
• Movie Trailer Videos
• Party & Event Videos
• Exclusives & Specials
• Vicky Vidya Ka Woh Wala Video – Trailer |…
• Vicky Vidya Ka Woh Wala Video - Announcement…
• Yudhra | Trailer 2 | Siddhant Chaturvedi | Raghav…
• Devara Part -1 Trailer (Hindi) | Jr NTR | Saif…
• Dharmaveer 2 | Trailer 2 | Hindi | 27 September |…
• Jigra - Official Teaser Trailer | Ulti Ginti…
• Latest Hindi News
• Latest Bhojpuri News
• Celebs@twitter
• Hungama.com
• Artist Aloud
• Hungama Games
• Music Reviews
• Bharat Official Trailer
• Download Celeb Photos
• Download Celeb Wallpapers
• Download Movie photos
• Download Celebrity Party Photos
• Download Movie First Look Poster
• Download Magazine Cover
• Download Movie On Set Photos
• Download Movie Wallpapers

• Date of Birth Month January Febuary March April May June July August September October November December Date 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 Year 2024 2023 2022 2021 2020 2019 2018 2017 2016 2015 2014 2013 2012 2011 2010 2009 2008 2007 2006 2005 2004 2003 2002 2001 2000 1999 1998 1997 1996 1995 1994 1993 1992 1991 1990 1989 1988 1987 1986 1985 1984 1983 1982 1981 1980 1979 1978 1977 1976 1975 1974 1973 1972 1971 1970 1969 1968 1967 1966 1965 1964 1963 1962 1961 1960 1959 1958 1957 1956 1955 1954 1953 1952 1951 1950 1949 1948 1947 1946 1945 1944 1943 1942 1941 1940 1939 1938 1937 1936 1935 1934 1933 1932 1931 1930 1929 1928 1927 1926 1925 1924 1923 1922 1921 1920 1919 1918 1917 1916 1915 1914 1913
• Gender Male Female

Skip this step for now

• Your Rating Click to rate on scale of 1-5
• Review Title

5000 characters remaining

‘Justice for the buffalo’: Inside filmmaker Tasha Hubbard’s quest to unearth history

Cree filmmaker Tasha Hubbard's Singing Back the Buffalo surveys a movement of rematriating buffalo to their ancestral lands. Supplied

The latest documentary from Cree filmmaker Tasha Hubbard ( Nîpawistamâsowin: We Will Stand Up , Birth of A Family ), Singing Back the Buffalo, surveys a movement of rematriating buffalo to their ancestral lands, finding cultural and historic kinship between the subjects and displaced Indigenous peoples. The film combines Hubbard’s dissertation on buffalo consciousness and Indigenous creative expression with the work of community leaders, activists, and scientists, as well as animated sequences to reveal the animal’s fraught history in North America.

Hubbard documents buffalo in the Grasslands National Park in Saskatchewan and the Banff National Park in Alberta, as well as the signing of the historic, intertribal Buffalo Treaty at the Blackfeet Reservation in 2014, which ensures the restoration of bison to 6.3 million acres of land between the United States and Canada. She begins by recalling her own ancestral relationship with buffalo in the Qu’Appelle Valley in 2003, where she encountered a sacred Buffalo ribstone and medicine bowl that, when sung to, seemed to sing back.

Two centuries ago, between 30 and 60 million buffalo roamed the Prairies and woodland. By 1890, the buffalo numbered less than 300 owing to cattle disease, hide hunters, and targeted efforts by governments and military. Their bodies would become articles of the industrial age: factory belts and military boots were created from their hides, while their bones were ground into fertilizer and fine china. The ecological and cultural fallout from this extermination was dire and the buffalo, once held in total reverence as relatives of the land’s caretakers, are now scant and confined. Owing to restoration efforts, there are presently 2,200 plains buffalo and 10,000 wood buffalo roaming free or in protected areas around Canada.

“A thousand years ago, to think that there were hardly any buffalo would have been unimaginable. We can’t change the fact that it happened, but we can bring them back,” says Hubbard during our interview. “I think about justice a lot throughout my work and most times it’s justice for Indigenous people, but in this case it’s justice for the buffalo.”

Hubbard and Blackfoot Elder Leroy Little Bear. DOWNSTREAM PICTURES/Supplied

Featuring affective testimony from advocates such as Blackfoot scholar Leroy Little Bear and Jason Baldes of the Wind River Tribal Buffalo Initiative, Singing Back the Buffalo seeks “a balance in the relational networks among humans.” We see this tipped equilibrium slowly reinstated through new migration efforts, with 87 buffalo yearlings airlifted from Elk Island to the Blackfeet Nation reservation in Montana in an effort to repopulate widely.

The film is in memory of Narcisse Blood (Tatsikiistamik), a Blackfoot elder, academic, and filmmaker with whom Hubbard began developing the film in 2014, shortly before his sudden passing in 2015. Hubbard would return to the project in 2022, with a crew following the path of the buffalo across the Northern Plains.

The film’s visual language is attuned to the literal and figurative enclosures unduly placed on the buffalo and Indigenous people alike; one especially striking image involves a clump of buffalo wool caught in barbed wire, swaying with the wind but unable to whirl away. “Fences are so ubiquitous and people don’t really stop to think about that – they’re a bizarre claim on our shared ecosystem. I’ve been long interested in that image of fencing and barbed wire, that element of confinement.”

Behind the scenes of Singing Back the Buffalo. Supplied

Hubbard gleefully recounts a memory from filming with the Wolakota team in South Dakota that confronts the colonial worldview where progress takes the form of domestication: “We were in TJ Heinert’s [the buffalo caretaker] truck and he was showing us the 28,000 acre range when he went ‘Oh, hold on a second,’ jumped out, grabbed his wire cutters, and began cutting the fence.” The Wolakota Buffalo Range had previously been occupied by cattle owners, who built fences along the property, but Heinert’s commitment to dismantling these limitations to the buffalo’s movement was a pivotal step in human-buffalo reharmonization.

Another staggering moment takes place when Hubbard accompanies four other Indigenous women to Banff, where two of them, Kyra Northwest and Glenda Abbott, are said to have sung buffalo ceremony songs during their hike. A monitoring system reveals that these songs – which the film’s title refers to – summoned the buffalo closer as they were being sung. But in place of any image or audio, a black screen reveals that these songs “cannot be recorded.”

“I learned quickly what is and isn’t within the realm of the filmable. The Western documentary tradition is that everything is accessible to audiences, which is where some of the ethnographic origins come into play, with the non-white group as the object of study and the audience thinking they should see whatever they want,” says Hubbard. “There are certain things that are for us and just don’t belong in front of a camera. We get that question sometimes – how come we can’t see? – but they haven’t earned the right to know, hear, or see that.”

Buffalo singers perform in Singing Back the Buffalo, which opens in select theatres Sept. 15. Supplied

The crucial messaging of Singing Back the Buffalo maintains that buffalo rematriation is a shared project in which we are all implicated. The rehabilitation of the prairie ecosystem and the cultural restoration of Indigenous tribes promise a healthier collective future for us all, provided we are willing to learn and act.

“The hope is always that people walk away toward a potentially different paradigm of how we view the land we live on and the beings that live on it,” explains Hubbard. “When you stop and think, what if we’re not at the top of the hierarchy or at the centre of the universe, and are instead part of a functioning and healthy ecosystem. What would that mean?”

Singing Back the Buffalo opens in select theatres Sept. 13, expanding across Canada throughout the fall.

Report an editorial error

Report a technical issue

Editorial code of conduct

Follow related authors and topics

• First Nations
• Movies and Films
• Saskatchewan

Authors and topics you follow will be added to your personal news feed in Following .

Interact with The Globe

• Social Affairs
• Foreign Affairs
• North Korea
• Diplomatic Circuit
• Arts & Design
• Performance
• More Sports
• World Business
• #Hashtag Korea
• Hello Hangeul
• English Eye
• Interactive
• PR newswire
• Global insight
• KH Media Kit
• US stresses reconnaissance efforts for Korean Peninsula after NK uranium enrichment site disclosure
• Daewoong unveils new Indonesian stem cell facility with GMP certification
• Suwon FC terminate contract with banned midfielder Son Jun-ho
• Doctors reject participation in govt.-led consultative body amid standoff over medical school quota hike plan
• Yoon visits hospitals ahead of Chuseok holiday amid doctors' walkout
• [Herald Review] Ryoo Seung-wan asks what justice is in “I, the Executioner”
• Food conglomerates to refine strategies during Chuseok
• Kia joins forces with Geotab, 42dot to streamline PBV fleet management
• [Today’s K-pop] Stray Kids Hyunjin becomes face of Cartier
• Daegu Homeplus gets fresh look with enhanced features, new brands

Most Popular

N. Korea fires multiple short-range ballistic missiles toward East Sea

Samsung’s yearly dilemma looms: Exynos vs. Snapdragon

Yoon to visit Prague next week to forge 'nuclear energy alliance'

Is NewJeans leaving Hybe?

1 in 4 Korean workers extend Chuseok holiday with paid leave: survey

Life sentence finalized for killer in Sillim rampage

Korea removes over 1,300 Chinese-made security cameras from barracks

N. Korea publicly discloses uranium enrichment facility for 1st time

Celltrion secures contract to supply Herzuma to Brazil for 5th year

What comes after love? Ex-lovers cross paths in new Coupang Play series

Start your day with a roundup of key stories from The Korea Herald with news and comment on all that’s happening in Korea. 

Ryoo’s fast-paced cop action sequel to "Veteran" gets complex

Published : Sept. 13, 2024 - 18:12

Link copied

Ryoo Seung-wan, an established filmmaker in Korea known for bringing witty, high-adrenaline action to the big screen, has returned with “I, the Executioner,” a sequel to the 2015 mega-hit cop movie “Veteran.”

The first film in the series follows veteran detective Seo Do-cheol (Hwang Jung-min) as he takes down corrupt chaebol heir Jo Tae-oh (Yoo Ah-in). “I, the Executioner” – known as “Veteran 2” here -- follows Do-Cheol, as he teams up with rookie cop Park Sun-woo (Jung Hae-in) to track down a serial killer who taunts the police by announcing his next victim before committing each crime.

“I, the Executioner” distances itself from the 2015 film by portraying darker, down-to-earth topics and timely social issues that make not only Do-cheol but also the audience think.

As they try to attract viewers, YouTubers create confusion for the police as they spread rumors about whom they think the serial killer -- whom the public dubs "Haechi" after the ancient Korean mythical animal -- is.

Although Haechi seems to kill only those he believes "deserve" punishment, such as those who have committed crimes, his real intention remains unknown throughout the movie. But his actions are so cruel that they can't be justified.

Director Ryoo explained that "Veteran" has a structure of good versus evil, but "I, the Executioner," is about what people think justice is, asking, “Is it right for someone to kill a criminal, as the public is being swayed by YouTubers and does not trust law enforcement?”

“To be honest, ‘Veteran’ started out not as a blockbuster movie. So I even became afraid after the movie became successful. Over the past nine years, I saw many different varieties of cop movies such as ‘The Roundup’ and ‘Extreme Job’ opening in the theater, giving me a sense of worry that I should not repeat the simple cop flick style that I did in the first installment,” Ryoo told reporters during an interview in Seoul on Sept. 11.

“But then I came to realize that as a director, pouring out all my anger against society into a movie and the audience being fascinated by that became uncomfortable. Also, I experienced that someone I criticized for being a perpetrator turned out to be a victim, giving me the thought that me defining what justice is can be dangerous,” Ryoo said.

He said he also wanted to portray the personal development of Do-cheol in the sequel.

“His son turns 19 years old in the sequel and becomes the target of school violence, an issue that Do-cheol cannot openly discuss at home or at work because he originally believed that kids grow up by fighting. But then later in the movie, he sincerely apologizes to his son (for having thought that way),” Ryoo said.

Hwang Jung-min said that playing Do-cheol, he was touched by how Do-cheol becomes responsible for his own actions and words.

“My son is also 18 years old now. I could immerse myself in Do-cheol as a father and husband. I’ve discussed a lot with the director about how Do-cheol becomes a responsible adult. I can say that this character was 100 percent made by myself,” Hwang told reporters in a separate interview in Seoul on Sept. 10.

“The sequel leaves the audience with the message that justice never dies. That is why the last scene, in which Do-cheol wants to keep the villain alive, is very important, because he wants him to get punished and brought to justice,” Hwang said.

Actor Jung Hae-in newly joined the franchise as Park Sun-woo, a rookie police officer with distorted passion and warped sense of justice.

Jung said he did extensive research into the character, as he wasn’t able to grasp this sociopathic character fully.

“I focused on portraying Sun-woo, who is held captive by his beliefs and value system. Not only was shooting physically tiring due to the action sequences, I also had some psychologically challenging moments because I had to understand why Sun-woo was that way and had done (what he did). But my solution was to act without having to find a clear answer,” Jung told reporters in a separate interview in Seoul on Sept. 11.

“There was no clue in the script, so I imagined myself what kind of life Sun-woo may have lived. But then the director said, I don’t need to improvise such stories to play Sun-woo. So I could rather focus on straightforward acting,” he added.

“I, the Executioner” hit local theaters on Friday.

Articles by Kim Da-sol

• [Well-curated] American burger, simple salt bread and open air market

More from Headlines

DC's New Justice League Promo Cards Arrive This Fall

Your changes have been saved

Email is sent

Email has already been sent

Please verify your email address.

You’ve reached your account maximum for followed topics.

DC Comics is promoting the imminent arrival of its All-In initiative by unveiling brand-new Justice League membership cards, available throughout October and the first week of November. DC All in Special #1 will hit comic book shelves on October 2.

Per AIPT , the Justice League membership cards, measuring 2.125″ by 3.3125″, will be available at participating comic book shops. The cards are based on the design featured in the DC All In Special , where the cards will appear for the first time in the present DC canon. A QR code on the back of each Justice League membership card takes fans to exclusive previews of upcoming All-In issues, behind-the-scenes material, character designs, and more. Fans buying four different DC titles per week will get a different Justice League membership card for free.

One of DC’s Most Underrated Heroes is Taking on a Solo Mission to Save the World

Green Arrow's greatest love interest is officially gunning for him on what might be Absolute Power's most dangerous solo mission yet.

The Batman membership card will arrive in October's first week, followed by Superman and Wonder Woman in weeks two and three, respectively. A customizable Justice League membership card debuts in October's final week, and the Darkseid-infected glow-in-the-dark membership becomes available in week one of November. DC's All-In initiative will launch the brand-new Absolute Universe that will tie in with a new Darkseid-centric storyline for all the publisher's current titles.

DC Comics' All-In Initiative

The Absolute Universe will tell alternate tales of DC's iconic characters alongside the ones in regular continuity, with one of the initiative's leading creators, Scott Snyder , explaining the objective of All-In. "The goal is to celebrate every kind of superhero storytelling at once. I was lucky enough in my decade-plus of DC to be part of really awesome initiatives. One, the New 52 was all about new things, and reinventing the heroes from the ground up and inviting in readers that wanted reimagined takes," he said.

A Classic Batman Villain Stumbles Into Gotham’s Most Unsettling Mystery

One of the most powerful Batman villains of all time lands himself right in the middle of a budding new Gotham City mystery.

"Another, Rebirth, was about celebrating this great incredible tapestry of continuous storytelling that we've had, this epic kind of collective story, possibly in centuries," Snyder continued. "My belief and the belief of, I think, most creators and editors and everybody there was that if we could do both of those things together at the same time, we'd have an incredible seismic moment and initiative that embraced all kinds of readers."

Snyder also discussed making DC Universe's main villain, Darkseid, even more formidable . "And so we started planning this story about Darkseid. Darkseid is the villain that both Josh (Williamson) and I always felt like he is sort of the core antagonist of the entire DCU," he said. "I think over the last few years, he's had some fantastic stories from, you know, 15 years ago. I can't believe it's that long almost, but Final Crisis to you know, the Darkseid War, all these different ones, but we felt like maybe it was time to do something with him where he leveled up," Snyder explained.

DC's brand-new Justice League membership cards will be available in participating comic book shops throughout October and the first week of November.

Source: AIPT

• Justice League

• MARKETPLACE

Review: Netflix's tight, taut and tension-filled 'Rebel Ridge' is a first-rate drama

“Rebel Ridge” opens with a shot of a lanky, muscular stranger riding into a small, corrupt Southern town — a scene we've all seen plenty of times. Except this stranger isn't in a truck or on a horse. He's on a bicycle.

It's one of many ways that writer-director Jeremy Saulnier both honors and has fun with movie conventions on his way to making clearly one of the best things on Netflix.

The tight, taut and tension-filled “Rebel Ridge” is the story of a former Marine who arrives in Shelby Springs, Louisiana, to post his cousin's bond and gets sucked into taking on its shady law enforcement department.

The last time a relative came to help his cousin from the clutches of less-than-ideal small town Southern legal system it was a comedy with Joe Pesci and a hero named Vinny. If you ever needed a hint that this isn’t that movie, the opening sequence is scored to Iron Maiden.

The movie stars Aaron Pierre as our former Marine, Terry Richmond, a man with mad martial arts and survival skills (he catches fish with his bare hands), and, on the opposite side, Don Johnson as the courtly but deadly chief of police, as venal as Richmond is noble. Both seem absolutely to adore their gun-slinging, testosterone-filled roles.

Saulnier — who dealt with frontier justice and lawlessness in his previous “Blue Ruin” and “Green Room” — has given this action-thriller loads of social context: racism, opioid addiction, the cash bail system, small-town funding and militarized cops.

Like its leading man, “Rebel Ridge” is a lean, muscular movie with few over-the-top special effects, save for Pierre’s spectacular eyes. It’s a triumph of small-budget, naturalistic filmmaking, where cars on a gravel road kick up choking clouds of dust and arm bones crack when pressure is applied.

The script is spare — allowing for some homespun poetry like “You know the thing about a pissing contest? Everybody gets piss on their boots” — and without an ounce of fat. So if a bottle of coconut water is brought up in one scene, it’s going be used in another. There are interesting camera angles, like the backseat of a speeding car or a tense cell phone call inside an old-fashioned phone booth.

There's also great use of dramatic underscoring by Brooke and Will Blair, who build discordant waves that grow slack, only to reappear like a shark. The score — including “Wayfaring Stranger” by Neko Case or “Right Brigade” by Bad Brains — are heard only on car radios or headphones or playing in restaurants. Distant thunder sounds often.

Our ex-Marine — described by one officer as “unarmed but considered dangerous” — forges an unlikely ally in a court clerk, played winningly by AnnaSophia Robb, and there's a plumb role for James Cromwell, too.

“Rebel Ridge” has whiffs of all kinds of other movies, from “First Blood” to spaghetti Westerns, while the script even humanizes the bad guys — “Just because you was right doesn’t make us wrong,” the chief says to our hero.

There's a conspiracy at the heart of the town and you likely won't be able to turn off the movie before finding out if one well-trained stranger can save the day, as things gloriously escalate. “It’s gotten out of hand. Real soup sandwich,” says our hero. That's not what ended up on your TV screen, though — it's the very opposite of a mess.

“Rebel Ridge,” a Netflix release that is streaming now, is rated TV-MA for “language, smoking and violence.” Running time: 131 minutes. Three and half stars out of four.

Comments are limited to 200 words in length.

Post your comment Cancel reply

Comments policy.

Story comments on theday.com are intended to be civil, friendly conversations. Please treat other participants with respect and in a way that you would want to be treated. You are responsible for what you say. Please, stay on topic. If you see an objectionable post, please report it to us using the "Report" link included on every post.

Please note that comments are monitored by theday.com staff. We reserve the right at all times to remove comments that are off-topic, unlawful, threatening, abusive, libelous, defamatory, obscene, vulgar, pornographic, profane, indecent or otherwise objectionable. Personal attacks, especially on other participants, are not permitted. We reserve the right to permanently block any user who violates these terms and conditions.

Comments that are long, have multiple paragraph breaks, include code of any kind, or include hyperlinks to objectionable material may not be posted.

Read the full policy here.

Total word count: 0 words. Words left: 200 .

Stuck-in-space astronauts make first public comments since Boeing capsule left without them 02:53 pm

Boeing factory workers go on strike after rejecting contract offer 06:05 am

Conn. state police form targeted violence prevention team as new way of dealing with threats 11:01 pm

Trump rules out another debate against Harris as her campaign announces $47M haul 06:46 pm

From Chinese to Italians and beyond, maligning a culture via its foods is a longtime American habit 05:57 pm

Day readers react to Trump-Harris debate

A year and $352,000 later, no update on Norwich superintendent investigation

Updated: Arrest made in Hodges Square stabbing

OPINION: New London insults taxpayers with deal to cut developer’s taxes

One student injured as school bus crashes into Volvo in Groton

An altar boy in Newport, Rhode Island

Bee rescuer patrick gaudin, reporting on church sex abuse cases for over 20 years, dictionary researcher joshua pendragon, providing victims of church abuse some justice and accountability.