“It is difficult to remember a courtroom drama of such efficiency as THE VERDICT, nor better performances from Newman.” - Derek Malcolm, Guardian
“The performances, the dialogue and the plot all work together like a rare machine.” - Roger Ebert, Chicago Sun-Times
Saturday, August 3, 3:00 p.m. & Wednesday, August 7, 6:00 p.m. | Lumet’s flawless courtroom drama stars Paul Newman in a career-defining performance as Frank Galvin, an alcoholic ambulance-chaser lawyer who takes a medical malpractice case for a quick settlement. When he visits the bedside of his comatose client and nabs a respected doctor as a star witness, he rejects the settlement offered by the hospital, and pushes the case to trial. Up against a shrewd defense lawyer (an icy James Mason), a biased judge, and his own personal demons, Frank risks everything to uncover the truth and get his client justice. Newman, Academy Award nominated for his performance, embodies Galvin with jumpy, bruised brilliance—his conscience and thought processes, in conflict with his fear and desires, are laid bare, as the audience observes a character transforming before our very eyes in subtle and profound ways. Also Academy Award nominated for Best Picture, Director, Supporting Actor (Mason), and Adapted Screenplay, and co-starring an assured Charlotte Rampling, THE VERDICT is one of Lumet’s most acclaimed and enduring works—no judgment if it makes you literally stand up and cheer.
Awards & Nominations
Nominee - Best Picture, Best Actor in a Leading Role (Paul Newman), Best Actor in a Supporting Role (James Mason), Best Director, Best Adapted Screenplay, Academy Awards
Nominee - Best Picture, Best Actor in a Leading Role (Paul Newman), Best Actor in a Supporting Role (James Mason), Best Director, Best Adapted Screenplay, Golden Globes
Winner - Best Director, National Board of Review
Sidney Lumet Centennial: Sidney Lumet (1924–2011) was a director driven by stories of morality. Corrupt systems vs. brave protagonists, the worst of men pitted against the best, honesty in the face of hypocrisy—Lumet’s filmography reflects his dedication to championing what is true and what is just in this harsh world. To celebrate his centennial, we present 12 films by the Oscar-winning filmmaker, June 1–August 21. View full series.
The Film Center is ADA accessible. This presentation will be projected without open captions. The theater is hearing-loop equipped. For accessibility requests, please email filmcenter@saic.edu