12 Angry Men
The defense and the prosecution have rested and the jury is filing into the jury room to decide if a young Spanish-American is guilty or innocent of murdering his father. What begins as an open and shut case soon becomes a mini-drama of each of the jurors' prejudices and preconceptions about the trial, the accused, and each other.
Critics Sentiment
Juror 3 tears photo and changes final vote
Judge instructs jury on death penalty case
The film builds steadily from its solid opening to reach its emotional peak when Juror 3 finally confronts his personal demons and changes his vote.
Critics consistently praised 12 Angry Men as a masterpiece of filmmaking that transforms a single room into a riveting drama through brilliant writing, direction, and performances. The film maintains exceptionally high quality throughout, building tension and emotional investment as each piece of evidence is methodically examined. Reviewers highlighted the perfect ensemble acting, intelligent dialogue, and Lumet's masterful direction that makes pure conversation absolutely compelling.
Full cast
Martin Balsam
Juror 1
John Fiedler
Juror 2
Lee J. Cobb
Juror 3
E.G. Marshall
Juror 4
Jack Klugman
Juror 5
Edward Binns
Juror 6
Jack Warden
Juror 7
Henry Fonda
Juror 8
Joseph Sweeney
Juror 9
Ed Begley
Juror 10
George Voskovec
Juror 11
Robert Webber
Juror 12
Rudy Bond
Judge (uncredited)
Tom Gorman
Stenographer (uncredited)
James Kelly
Guard (uncredited)
Billy Nelson
Court Clerk (uncredited)
Walter Stocker
Man Waiting for Elevator (uncredited)
John Savoca
Defendant (uncredited)
Crew
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