Good morning and happy holidays from the First Legal family! We hope you’re relaxing today and enjoying some well-deserved time off! In celebration, we’ve compiled a brief list of some of our favorite legal thrillers. While these films may not be the most accurate, the courtroom dramatics, plentiful objections, and occasional gavel pounding, combine to create our top hits. So kick back, relax, and grab some popcorn while you enjoy these great thrillers!
A Civil Action (1998)
No list of legal thrillers would be complete without this David vs. Goliath tale! John Travolta stars as the furious and determined Jan Schlichtmann, morally unable to allow companies to continue dumping toxic waste. His justified outrage leads him into a legal battle with an extremely well-funded opponent. In addition to being beautifully shot, A Civil Action asks the audience to consider the practical consequences of demanding moral outcomes from a legal system that is designed to provide reparations.
Erin Brockovich (2000)
When you love true crime, you can’t skip over this classic film! Julia Roberts gives an Academy Award winning performance as real-life paralegal Erin Brockovich. True to the facts of the original case, Roberts as Brockovich begins an investigation into illegal toxic dumping which results in one of the largest class action lawsuits in US history!
A Few Good Men (1992)
If you were hoping we wouldn’t talk about A Few Good Men, then we’re afraid you can’t handle the truth! In this classic, Tom Cruise and Jack Nicholson square off in a case involving the death of a Marine. Cruise is on the defense for two low-ranking Marines, who claim they were only following orders. Based on Aaron Sorkin’s original play, the movie provides a riveting retelling of an actual military case.
Judgment at Nuremberg (1961)
Set in 1948, the movie centers on the war crime trials of former Nazi’s. Judgment at Nuremberg more than earns its two Oscars. The movie tackles big questions about the political and moral ramifications of World War 2. The audience watches while German judges confront their complacency in Nazi atrocities. While both countries may prefer to forget the crimes of the past, it is up to the courts to see that justice is found!
Legally Blonde (2001)
Okay, so it’s not technically a “thriller”, but we certainly think Elle’s iconic court scene was thrilling! Using her knowledge of beauty and fashion, for which she has previously been scorned, our favorite lawyer in pink is able to shed new light on a high stakes murder case. This movie combines comedy and heart to create a
We hope you agree with our list! Enjoy the festivities this season!
