The best film of the 1950’s I guess. Life in their hands-death on their minds is the caption for ’12 Angry Men’. 12 Angry Men is about a jury member who tries to persuade the other 11 members to acquit the suspect on trial on the basis of reasonable doubt.
The story starts after closing arguments have been presented in a murder case, and the judge gives his instructions to the jury and films ends by showing the jury members coming out of the court .Leaving the starting and the ending parts of the film, the film takes place in a single room. Can you imagine a film which is shot in a single set? 12 Angry Men gives the pleasure of watching the thought provoking arguments made by 12 people in a room. Henry Fonda is the member in the jury who makes every other member in the jury to change their decision and go against the Death penalty. After Hearing the story some might feel that it cannot be a realistic film, but it proves the other way.
12 Angry Men is the most compelling court drama film (if you allow me to say) I have ever seen. Every frame in the film is perfect. If you observe the dialogues, the perceptions, the contemplations, the frustrations by the 12 members in the jury are impeccable. In the end the film makes a thought provoking impact on the audience.
This is the first film directed by Sidney Lumet who has directed masterpieces like Serpico (1973), Dog Day Afternoon (1975), Network (1976) etc,. The bold decision of Sidney Lumet to choose a film like 12 Angry Men is admirable.
