There are hundreds of compelling court-room scenes in movies from all eras, but some movies are known specifically for the "courtoom scene." As beings who are fascinated by crimes coming to justice, we love to watch an underdog lawyer stun the courtroom, or to hear an evocative account given by a smooth-talker. You may have your favorites, but here are the top five courtroom scenes you'll find in all of cinema.
Liar, Liar
Most movies that involve a courtroom scene or trial are more on the serious side, but "Liar, Liar" is a ridiculous poke at the integrity of lawyers that provides laughs from beginning to end. In "Liar, Liar," Jim Carrey plays a slippery lawyer that's given a huge divorce case. Unfortunately for him, his son makes a wish that his father can no longer lie. The wish comes true, and that's when the real fun starts. A lawyer that isn't allowed to lie? The jokes practically write themselves. In the final court scene, Jim Carrey struggles to get through a court case without lying—physically and mentally maiming himself in the process.
Kramer vs. Kramer
Speaking of divorce cases, "Kramer vs. Kramer" portrays one of the most emotional cases ever put on film. Meryl Streep and Dustin Hoffman play ex-spouses that are fighting for the custody of their child. However, they are not prepared for how brutal of a battle this is going to be. The lawyers put them through their paces and make numerous attempts to destroy the credibility of their opponent. What ensues is an emotional case of character assassination and stress that neither spouse was ready for.
A Few Good Men
This movie claims the now-famous saying, "You can't handle the truth!" When it comes to courtroom scenes "A Few Good Men" is probably the most famous in all of cinema. The story revolves around the court martial of two U.S. Marines that have been charged with murder of another U.S. Marine. Tom Cruise plays the unenthusiastic lawyer and Jack Nicholson plays the shift Colonel. Intensity grows as the case unfolds, and the plot takes unexpected turns that no one is ready for. You'll recognize other famous faces in the courtroom like Demi Moore, Kevin Bacon, and Kiefer Sutherland.
Skyfall
Skyfall has plenty of action packed in from beginning to end, and includes an unconventional courtroom scene that involves an intense shootout. In this Bond movie featuring Daniel Craig, MI6 is in deep water with the British government. As if that wasn't enough, there's also a madman, Raoul Silva, on the loose that's hellbent on killing M. In this poignant courtroom scene, M is defending the integrity and necessity of MI6 as James Bond is racing to her rescue from Raoul Silva.
To Kill a Mockingbird
This court scene is renowned for how touching and historically significant it is. Many avid readers know the plot of To Kill a Mockingbird: Atticus Finch is put in the position of defending a black man that has been charged with rape. Finch knows he isn't going to win, as prejudice against blacks runs way too deep. With that being said, he gives it his best shot. One of the greatest literary works of all time is brought to life on film as Finch tackles the challenges presented in this cinematic courtroom.
All in all, these scenes have made us laugh, cry, and have brought us to the edge of our seats. Although we get a thrill from watching crime shows like Law and Order, nothing beats an intense courtroom scene in which the secrets of the plot unfold and shock the audience. Whether believable or not, there's never been a better way to watch justice be served than to enjoy the great American pastime of movie watching. Information for this article was provided by the professionals of The Defence Lawyer , a firm that assists those who need a criminal defence lawyer in Edmonton.
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