GUEST EDITORIAL: 4 Great 90s Movies About the Law
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4 Great 90s Movies About the Law
by Kevin Gardner
Legal thrillers and dramas dominated popular culture in 1990s television and movies. Some of the most notable films of the era, however, are notorious among legal professionals because they are so implausible or do not render realistic depictions of how the justice system works in practice. “My Cousin Vinny” (1992) in which the girlfriend of an unqualified defense attorney saves the day in a capital case by serving as an expert witness is one of the most laughable examples of 90s legal movies that makes attorneys cringe. However, there were a lot of great 90s movies that showcased criminal procedure more thoughtfully and offered much more insightful commentary about the law. Here are some 90s gems that deliver interesting examinations about the role of investigators, lawyers, and jurors in the justice system.
1. “The Firm" (1993)
This iconic 90s thriller depicts the darker side of the law. Unambitious but naïve attorney, played by Tom Cruise, gets in over his head when he learns about his firm's involvement in organized crime. The movie was based on a best-selling novel by John Grisham who is most well-known for crafting compelling tales featuring legal intrigue. It exemplifies how some attorneys could take advantage of their position and abuse the justice system. Nevertheless, the young lawyer whose life is put in danger by the powerful but corrupt firm that he works for is determined to prove that nobody is above the law.
2. “A Few Good Men" (1992)
Almost everyone is familiar with the climax of this 90s legal drama when Jack Nicholson angrily shouts, “You can't handle the truth!" from the witness stand. The trial in which he is testifying is a military hearing, and many aspects of criminal procedure vary considerably from traditional criminal justice proceedings. In many cases, the sentences issued by military tribunals are much more severe than consequences for civilians.
This film has a cast of 90s stars and features another excellent performance by Tom Cruise in which he is the underdog squaring off against a formidable opponent. Again, he does not set out to be a warrior for justice, but ultimately finds that he must fight to make wrongdoers accountable.
3. “The Juror” (1996)
In this thriller, an idealistic single mother played by Demi Moore serves on the jury of a high profile case involving a powerful member of the Mafia. The crime syndicate that he represents takes aim at her. Alec Baldwin gives a memorable performance as a ruthless figure who is willing to go to great lengths to protect his employer. The protagonist must choose between keeping her son safe and fulfilling her duty to be an impartial trier of fact.
The film gives an interesting take on the significance of juries in the justice system in the litigation process. Juries do not make decisions about matters of law but rather only issues of fact. They must weigh evidence without bias. Interestingly, Demi Moore's character exhibits a willingness to give the accused the benefit of the doubt right at the start of her service on the jury. She indicates that his reputation as a mafioso would not really bear on how she evaluates the evidence presented.
4. “Primal Fear" (1996)
This 90s classic catapulted Edward Norton's film career on the path to success. He plays a young man accused of murdering a priest. The court appointed counsel, Richard Gere, is struggling to serve his client effectively but determined to get to the truth about why this seemingly mild-mannered young man would commit such a heinous act. The movie has several attention-grabbing twists, but you’ll have to wait until the very end to see the shocking revelation about what really happened.
When you feel like watching a great legal movie, take a trip back in time to the 90s to find some fantastic options. Much of the messaging in these fun but dated thrillers and dramas still rings true today and can still continue to captivate audiences.
