12 Angry Men (1957) - Critical Reviews

Synopsis

The defense and the prosecution have rested, and the jury is filing into the jury room to decide if a young man is guilty or innocent of murdering his father. What begins as an open-and-shut case of murder soon becomes a detective story that presents a succession of clues creating doubt, and a mini-drama of each of the jurors' prejudices and preconceptions about the trial, the accused, AND each other. Based on the play, all of the action takes place on the stage of the jury room.

Critical Acclaim

Upon its release in 1957, 12 Angry Men was met with critical acclaim for its taut narrative and powerful exploration of justice and prejudice. Directed by Sidney Lumet in his feature film debut, the film was praised for its intense, claustrophobic atmosphere and sharp character study. Critics noted the film's ability to maintain suspense and intrigue despite being set entirely in a single jury room, which was seen as a testament to Reginald Rose's screenplay and Lumet's deft direction. While initially not a commercial success, the film was highly regarded by those who saw it, particularly for its compelling dialogue and moral complexity.

Bosley Crowther of The New York Times praised the film as "a penetrating, sensitive and compelling examination of a diverse group of men," highlighting the ensemble cast's ability to bring depth to their roles. Variety commended the film for its "fine, incisive script" and "impeccable" performances, particularly that of Henry Fonda, who also produced the film. In modern times, 12 Angry Men has maintained its critical stature, holding an impressive 100% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes. Contemporary critics continue to celebrate its timeless exploration of human nature and the judicial process.

The lasting impact of 12 Angry Men is evident in its influence on courtroom dramas and its consistent presence in discussions of great American cinema. The film was nominated for three Academy Awards, including Best Director and Best Picture, affirming its critical recognition. It has been included in the American Film Institute's list of the 100 greatest American films and is frequently studied in film and law courses for its exemplary storytelling and ethical considerations. As a culturally and historically significant piece, the film was selected for preservation in the United States National Film Registry by the Library of Congress, cementing its legacy as a seminal work of cinema.