What makes a courtroom drama genuinely gripping? Corrupt legal systems? Are there any injustices that have been revealed? There are more story twists than you can shake a stick at in this book.
From the 1957 classic 12 Angry Men to the British fact-based film Let Him Have It, we’ve picked up some of the most fascinating courtroom dramas — some fictional, some based on real-life criminal cases – for film buffs to appreciate.
1. Jolly LLB
Jolly LLB is more of a comedy than a drama since it is simple, clear, and honest. The courtroom, on the other hand, has a raw and natural feel to it.
Jolly is a disgraced lawyer who decides to take on a hit-and-run case to bring justice to the victims. However, he is opposed by a very capable lawyer, Rajpal, who is hell-bent on winning the case.
2. Just Mercy
Walter Macmillan is the subject of a biographical legal drama called Just Mercy. It is based on the same-named memoir.
Walter’s lawyer, Bryan Steveson, challenges his murder conviction after he is sentenced to death. Jordan’s character expresses emotions like vulnerability and humility beautifully.
Jamie Fox, on the other hand, brings his character to life through his ingenuity and in-depth comprehension of his part.
3. Shahid
Shahid, a biographical courtroom drama that tells the story of Azmi’s murder, has screened at numerous national and international film festivals.
It’s won a slew of national accolades, including best actor and best director. When Shahid decides to pursue a legal career, he is committed to bringing justice to people who have been wrongly accused of terrorism.
He, on the other hand, bears the brunt of the consequences.
4. Trial of Chicago 7
This is a film made by and for youngsters. It is based on the controversial 1969 trial of seven defendants who spoke out against the government and were accused of wrecking the country with their schemes in retribution.
The case triggered a national debate about the government’s role in instilling prejudice in those who seek justice.
It’s great because of the powerful acting and timely adaptation.
5. Nail Polish
The prosecution of a well-known social activist accused of raping two migrant children and killing countless others is the focus of Nail Polish.
You also learn about supporting personalities such as the judge and the prosecutor’s lawyer. The entire cast gave outstanding performances, and the story is well-written as well.
6. Kramer VS Kramer
Kramer Vs Kramer, which won five Academy Awards for acting, director, and storyline, depicts the story of a divorce that leads to a judicial battle for their son’s custody.
This film deftly addresses issues such as parenthood, women’s rights, equality, and gender roles, among others. Dustin Hoffman and Meryl Streep both did an outstanding job as actors in this film.
7. PINK
It’s a good idea to have some boxes of tissues on hand for this one. It’s not simply another courtroom drama. A film that spews facts like “a no is a politician’s nephew molested.”
She makes a police report to seek justice. However, when no one else is interested in the issue, a retired lawyer decides to assist them.
8. The Judge
RDJ wows the crowd with his cheeky one-liners in The Judge, as he always does. Not to mention, D’nofrio, who plays Downey’s father, provides his usual great performance.
The picture promises a rollercoaster of emotions, despite varied reviews from critics and moviegoers.
When his father is accused of murder, his son fights to prove his father’s innocence. You’ll get shivers watching the courtroom moments.
9. Section 375
Section 375 deals with rape and consenting sex in a highly emotional way, with twists and accusations. Not only is the case itself morally questionable, but so are the lawyers representing the accused and the victim.
The mentor and mentee are on opposing sides of the case, with one establishing that his legal theory is correct and the other proving that his theory is incorrect.
Also Read: A Wholesome KDramas Guide For Beginners