Except for the first five or 10 minutes, this entire movie takes place the close confines of the jury room. Director Sidney Lumet [Serpico (1973), Murder on the Orient Express (1974), Dog Day Afternoon (1975), Network (1976)] is masterful at making this film work in such a small space. The cinematography, the lighting, the shot selection, everything adds to slowly building the tension. Henry Fonda as Juror #8 is the centerpiece here but, truly, what makes this movie great and a classic are the performances of all 12 men.
12 Angry Men's cast reads like a who's who of 1950's character actors -- Martin Balsam (yes, the guy from Psycho), John Fiedler (yes, the voice of Piglet), Lee J. Cobb, E.G. Marshall (yes, the guy from Christmas Vacation), Jack Klugman (yes, Quincy), Ed Binns, Jack Warden (yes, from Crazy Like a Fox), Joseph Sweeney, Ed Begley (yes, Ed Begley Jr.'s father), George Voskovec, and Robert Webber.
All of these men play their parts perfectly but there are a couple of stand-outs. Jack Warden is terrific as fast-talking salesman who is itching to get out of the room so he can attend a baseball game. Ed Begley is pitch perfect as a racist business owner. But the special kudos are saved for Lee J. Cobb. Cobb absolutely obliterates the screen with his performance as Juror #3. His intensity is palpable and his ferocity scares grown men.
This movie can be rented and, if you can get your hands on it, check out the special edition DVD with the interview with Jack Klugman and Sidney Lumet.
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