OK drama, nothing special
FINAL VERDICT
Aspect ratio: 1.33:1
Sound format: Mono
Treat Williams plays Earl Rogers, a defense lawyer who specialised in sensational murder trials in turn of the century California, in the true-life TV movie FINAL VERDICT. Williams' performance is restrained and dignified, much like the film itself, which lacks passion. Instead of relating Rogers' entire life story, the film chooses to focus on the events surrounding two particular trials, and is narrated from the point of view of his inquisitive young daughter (Olivia Burnette), who's admiration for her father's legal skills was always tempered by his battle with alcoholism and by the dissolute nature of some of the people he defended. It's a sugar-coated reminiscence, glossy and nostalgic, but the pacing is just a little too laidback for its own good, and the film never really rises to the occasion. But Williams is excellent, as usual, and the production values are solid.
Aspect ratio: 1.33:1
Sound format: Mono
Treat Williams plays Earl Rogers, a defense lawyer who specialised in sensational murder trials in turn of the century California, in the true-life TV movie FINAL VERDICT. Williams' performance is restrained and dignified, much like the film itself, which lacks passion. Instead of relating Rogers' entire life story, the film chooses to focus on the events surrounding two particular trials, and is narrated from the point of view of his inquisitive young daughter (Olivia Burnette), who's admiration for her father's legal skills was always tempered by his battle with alcoholism and by the dissolute nature of some of the people he defended. It's a sugar-coated reminiscence, glossy and nostalgic, but the pacing is just a little too laidback for its own good, and the film never really rises to the occasion. But Williams is excellent, as usual, and the production values are solid.
- Libretio
- Jan 26, 2000