Reasonable Doubt
Reasonable Doubt

Movie spotlight

Reasonable Doubt

1936
Movie
73 min
English

A lawyer's love for a young girl causes him to defend the man he thinks to be her lover. During the trial the lawyer finds out that the man is his own son.

Insights

IMDb7.3/10
Director: Jack HivelyGenres: Crime, Film-Noir, Mystery, Thriller

Plot Summary

District Attorney Arthur "Art" Connors is faced with a moral dilemma when he learns that the man he has prosecuted and convicted of murder, Charlie Vincent, is actually innocent. Connors had been under pressure to secure a conviction, and his own ambition blinded him to the evidence. Now, with Vincent facing execution, Connors must decide whether to expose his mistake and risk his career, or let an innocent man die.

Critical Reception

Reasonable Doubt is a lesser-known but highly regarded film noir that gained a cult following for its taut narrative and exploration of moral ambiguity. Critics often praise its efficient storytelling and the compelling performance of John Litel in a role that challenges the audience's perception of justice and personal responsibility.

What Reviewers Say

  • A gripping and morally complex thriller that keeps the audience guessing.

  • Praised for its efficient pacing and solid performances, particularly from the lead.

  • Often cited as an example of effective B-movie noir filmmaking.

Google audience: Audience reception for this film is not widely documented through Google Reviews, but it is generally appreciated by film noir enthusiasts for its suspenseful plot and thematic depth.

Fun Fact

Despite its critical acclaim among film noir aficionados, 'Reasonable Doubt' was a B-movie and did not receive major award nominations during its initial release.

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