The Pelican Brief
A law student's theory about the recent deaths of two Supreme Court justices embroils her in a far-reaching web of murder, corruption, and greed.
Critics Sentiment
Darby and Gray Grantham meet in New York City
Darby Shaw researches and writes the Pelican Brief
The film significantly improves when Roberts and Washington finally team up, with their chemistry elevating the material from a confusing conspiracy to an engaging thriller partnership.
The Pelican Brief starts slow with overly complex conspiracy setup but finds its footing once Julia Roberts and Denzel Washington unite as investigative partners. While critics consistently praise their chemistry and Pakula's direction, many found the plot convoluted and Roberts' early performance too weepy, though the film delivers satisfying thriller moments and a solid resolution.
Full cast
Showing 20 of 74
Julia Roberts
Darby Shaw
Denzel Washington
Gray Grantham
Sam Shepard
Thomas Callahan
John Heard
Gavin Vereek
Tony Goldwyn
Fletcher Coal
James B. Sikking
Denton Voyles
William Atherton
Bob Gminski
Robert Culp
The President
Stanley Tucci
Khamel
Hume Cronyn
Justice Rosenberg
John Lithgow
Smith Keen
Anthony Heald
Marty Velmano
Nicholas Woodeson
Stump
Stanley Anderson
Edwin Sneller
John Finn
Matthew Barr
Cynthia Nixon
Alice Stark
Jake Weber
Curtis Morgan
Casey Biggs
Eric East
Christopher Murray
Rupert
Sonny Jim Gaines
Sarge
Crew
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