12 Angry Men (1957)

“[when Juror #8 asks him to “suppose” the defendant’s innocence] Well, I’m not used to supposin’. I’m just a workin’ man. My boss does all the supposin’, but I’ll try one. Supposin’ you talk us all out of this, and, uh, the kid really did knife his father?” – Juror #6

Number of Times Seen – Too many to count  (Video, DVD, 28 May 2013)

Brief Synopsis – A jury must deliberate a murder case when 1 juror disagrees with the guilty verdict

My Take on it – Sidney Lumet adapted this stage play for the screen and to this day it is one of the most compelling courtroom drama even though only a few minutes actually take place in the courtroom.

Reginald Rose, the writer of the play was able to create 12 diverse personalities and mold together 90 minutes of conversation, arguing, and deliberation peppered with a few very good one-liners.

Cast is stellar; Martin Balsam, John Fielder, Lee J. Cobb, E.G. Marshall, Jack Klugman, Edward Binns, Jack Warden, Henry Fonda, Joseph Sweeney, Ed Begley Sr, George Voscovec and Robert Webber.

The movie was so well done that even now 50+ years later, companies still use this as a prime example during workshops and seminars about team work and conflict resolution.

Was nominated for 3 Oscars and lost each of them to The Bridge on the River Kwai (1957) (Best Picture, Director and Adapted Screenplay)

Bottom Line – Excellent dialogue driven movie. Will keep you thinking for a long time after it’s over. Highly recommended!!!

Rating – Oscar Worthy