12 Angry Men
“How can we be positive about anything”
12 Angry Men examines the very nature of justice, morality, and prejudice.
first and foremost the acting. This may very well be the best typecasting ever, and it was crucial. At just over 90 minutes the film does a great job at indicating who these men are through their behaviors and mannerisms. This truly is the backbone of the work considering the vast majority of the film takes place in one room.
Tonally the film is quite forward, at least as far as a 50s film staring exclusively white men could be. The film is very quick to point out the racial and economic prejudices against the boy accused of the murder.
This film is excellent thematically, the concept of “reasonable doubt” and the assertion that nothing is 100% certain is definitely the most interesting part of the film. The dichotomy between those who believe in the boy’s innocence and those who don’t is executed perfectly. I thought the rain metaphor was a bit surface level but the same time it worked to the story’s benefit so it’s inclusion is certainly justifiable.
The Cinematography of the film relies on framing for it to convey more complex ideas, and it is done extremely well. It is truly surprising how you can use just one room to create meaningful visuals.
everything said and done, 12 Angry Men is a bona fide classic and can certainly be regarded as among the greats even nearly 70 years after its initial debut. A worthy watch, some may even say necessary.
(5/5)