Twelve Angry Men
Twelve Angry Men

Twelve Angry Men

1954Movie51 minEnglish

Twelve Angry Men is a 1954 teleplay by Reginald Rose for the Studio One anthology television series. Initially staged as a CBS live production on 20 September 1954, the drama was later rewritten for the stage in 1955 under the same title and again for a feature film, 12 Angry Men (1957). The episode garnered three Emmy Awards for writer Rose, director Franklin Schaffner and Robert Cummings as Best Actor.

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Insights

IMDb9.0/10
Rotten Tomatoes100%
Metacritic97
Google Users96%
Director: Sidney LumetGenres: Drama, Courtroom Drama

Plot Summary

A cynical jury member in a New York City jury box attempts to carefully review the evidence of a murder trial. He alone believes the suspect is not guilty. He must convince his twelve fellow jurors to reconsider their guilty verdict before the close of the trial. The jury deliberates in a hot, stuffy room, forcing the men to confront their own prejudices and biases.

Critical Reception

Twelve Angry Men is widely considered one of the greatest films ever made. It received universal critical acclaim upon its release and continues to be lauded for its brilliant screenplay, tight direction, and powerhouse performances, particularly from Henry Fonda. The film's exploration of justice, prejudice, and the power of reasoned argument has resonated with audiences and critics for decades.

What Reviewers Say

  • A masterclass in filmmaking, with exceptional dialogue and direction.
  • Henry Fonda delivers a compelling and iconic performance.
  • The film's exploration of social issues and the justice system remains relevant.

Google audience: Audiences overwhelmingly praise the film's powerful storytelling, the intense courtroom drama, and the thought-provoking themes. Many highlight the brilliant performances and the film's ability to stimulate discussion about justice and human nature.

Awards & Accolades

Nominated for the Academy Award for Best Picture, Best Director, and Best Adapted Screenplay. Won the Golden Bear at the Berlin International Film Festival.

Fun Fact

The entire film takes place within the confines of the jury room, a deliberate choice by director Sidney Lumet to create a sense of claustrophobia and intensity.

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