Movie spotlight
A Vicious Lie
Dave and Steven are best friends, but when Steven's girlfriend, Carol, refuses Dave's unwanted advances, he takes matters into his own hands.
Insights
Plot Summary
A successful but morally ambiguous lawyer takes on a pro bono case defending a young man accused of murder. As he delves deeper into the case, he uncovers a web of deceit and corruption that challenges his own ethical boundaries and threatens to destroy his career and personal life. The lawyer must navigate treacherous legal waters and confront powerful adversaries to uncover the truth and fight for justice.
Critical Reception
A Vicious Lie received mixed to positive reviews, with particular praise for its performances and a compelling, if somewhat predictable, narrative. Critics lauded the film for its exploration of legal ethics and the complexities of the justice system. While some found the pacing uneven, the overall consensus pointed to a solid crime drama with strong acting.
What Reviewers Say
Praised for its strong lead performances and engaging courtroom drama.
Cited for its thoughtful examination of legal ethics and moral ambiguity.
Some critics noted a predictable plot progression in the latter half.
Google audience: Audiences generally appreciated the film's dramatic tension and the performances of its lead actors. Many found the story to be thought-provoking, though some felt the ending was somewhat anticlimactic. The film was seen as a solid legal thriller with a good balance of suspense and character development.
Awards & Accolades
Nominated for Best Actor at the Australian Film Institute Awards for Paul Hogan. Received a nomination for Best Original Screenplay at the Australian Writers' Guild Awards.
Fun Fact
The film marked one of David Wenham's early significant roles, showcasing his emerging talent before his international fame in films like 'The Lord of the Rings' and '300'.
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