The Verdict (1982)

A down on his luck alcoholic attorney (Paul Newman in an Oscar nominated performance) is reduced to being an "ambulance chaser". But when a medical malpractice law suit with the odds against him falls in his lap, he sees an opportunity for redemption. Based on the novel by Barry Reed (adapted for the screen by David Mamet) and directed by Sidney Lumet (MURDER ON THE ORIENT EXPRESS). Containing one of Newman's very best performances, this is a solid courtroom drama although not without its flaws. Lumet's direction is often (no surprise) unsubtle though to be fair, the screenplay IS by David Mamet! This spills into some of the performances, notably Milo O'Shea's over the top biased judge and Colin Stinton's smirking legal assistant. But Newman's performance is so exquisite that it overrides any bones I may have to pick. The excellent subdued score is by Johnny Mandel. With James Mason (also Oscar nominated), Charlotte Rampling, Jack Warden, Lindsay Crouse, Edward Binns, Julie Bovasso and Joe Seneca.