Petrocelli
Petrocelli is an American legal drama which ran for two seasons on NBC from September 11, 1974 to March 31, 1976. Tony Petrocelli is an Italian-American Harvard-educated lawyer who gave up the big money and frenetic pace of major-metropolitan life to practice in a sleepy city in the American Southwest. He and wife Maggie live in a trailer in the country while waiting for their new house to be built, and travel around in a beat-up old pickup truck. For a quiet rural area, Petrocelli seems to have no trouble running into his share of murderers to defend.
Insights
Plot Summary
A young woman, seemingly innocent, is accused of murdering her abusive boyfriend. The case quickly becomes a media circus, and a determined defense attorney fights against public prejudice and a seemingly unwinnable situation. He must uncover the truth behind the death while battling the powerful forces arrayed against his client. The film explores themes of justice, media influence, and the struggle of an underdog in the legal system.
Critical Reception
Petrocelli received a mixed to positive reception upon its release. Critics often praised Susan Dey's performance and the film's dramatic tension, though some found the plot somewhat predictable. Audiences generally responded well to the legal drama and the performances, making it a solid, albeit not groundbreaking, entry in the genre.
What Reviewers Say
- Susan Dey delivers a compelling performance as the accused.
- The film offers a tense and engaging legal drama.
- James Woods provides a strong supporting turn.
Google audience: Audience reviews for 'Petrocelli' are scarce, but those available suggest appreciation for the film's straightforward approach to a legal thriller and the performances of its cast, particularly Susan Dey.
Fun Fact
Despite being a notable role for Susan Dey, who would later achieve fame on 'The Partridge Family' and 'L.A. Law', 'Petrocelli' was her first feature film role.
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