The Verdict
Frank Galvin is a down-on-his-luck lawyer and reduced to drinking and ambulance chasing, when a former associate reminds him of his obligations in a medical malpractice suit by serving it to Galvin on a silver platter—all parties are willing to settle out of court. Blundering his way through the preliminaries, Galvin suddenly realizes that the case should actually go to court—to punish the guilty, to get a decent settlement for his clients... and to restore his standing as a lawyer.
Critics Sentiment
Frank delivers his impassioned closing argument to the jury
Frank's medical expert Dr. Gruber mysteriously vanishes
The film surges from Frank's lowest professional point when his expert witness disappears to the triumphant revelation of Nurse Costello's testimony.
The Verdict builds steadily from Newman's compelling portrayal of a broken alcoholic lawyer through mounting obstacles to reach extraordinary heights in its courtroom sequences. Critics consistently praised Newman's performance throughout, with particular acclaim for the closing argument and the film's powerful themes of redemption. While some found pacing issues in the first half, the film's emotional and dramatic payoff in the final act earned widespread critical admiration.
Full cast
Showing 20 of 45
Paul Newman
Frank Galvin
Charlotte Rampling
Laura Fischer
Jack Warden
Mickey Morrissey
James Mason
Ed Concannon
Milo O'Shea
Judge Hoyle
Lindsay Crouse
Kaitlin Costello
Edward Binns
Bishop Brophy
Julie Bovasso
Maureen Rooney
Roxanne Hart
Sally Doneghy
James Handy
Kevin Doneghy
Wesley Addy
Dr. Towler
Joe Seneca
Dr. Thompson
Lewis J. Stadlen
Dr. Gruber
Kent Broadhurst
Joseph Alito
Colin Stinton
Billy
Burtt Harris
Jimmy
Scott Rhyne
Young Priest
Susan Benenson
Deborah Ann Kaye
Evelyn Moore
Dr. Gruber's Nurse
Juanita Fleming
Dr. Gruber's Maid
Crew
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