12 Angry Men - a long essay by Ahmed Elghezlani (2023)

 

12 Angry Men" is a timeless classic film directed by Sidney Lumet and released in 1957. The movie tells the story of twelve jurors who are tasked with deciding the guilt or innocence of a young man accused of murdering his father. The movie takes place entirely in one room, and the audience is taken on an emotional journey as the jurors discuss the case and their own prejudices and biases.

The film's main theme is the idea of justice, as each of the jurors has their own idea of what justice is, and how it should be served. The film explores the concept of a fair trial, and how even the most minor biases can affect the outcome of a trial. The movie shows how the justice system can be flawed, and how it is up to the jurors to ensure that justice is served fairly.

One of the most impressive aspects of the movie is the way that it explores the characters of the jurors. Each juror is given a distinct personality, and their individual biases and prejudices are revealed as they debate the case. The movie explores the idea that everyone has their own set of biases, and that it is important to recognize these biases in order to make a fair decision.

The film's main protagonist is Juror 8, played brilliantly by Henry Fonda. Juror 8 is the only juror who initially votes not guilty, and he spends the rest of the movie trying to convince the other jurors to see the case from his perspective. Fonda's performance is understated but powerful, and he perfectly captures the character's sense of justice and determination.

One of the most memorable scenes in the movie is when Juror 8 asks the other jurors to try an experiment. He takes out a knife identical to the one used in the murder and plunges it into a table, showing how unlikely it is that the witness who claims to have seen the murder could have seen the accused commit the crime. This scene is a great example of the film's focus on logic and reasoning, as Juror 8 uses his own intelligence and reasoning to convince the other jurors.

Another memorable aspect of the movie is the tension that builds throughout the film. As the jurors argue, their tempers flare, and the room becomes increasingly claustrophobic. The movie is a masterclass in building tension, and the audience is kept on the edge of their seat as the jurors debate the case.

The movie's ending is satisfying and uplifting, as the jurors finally come to a unanimous decision. The film's message is clear: justice must be served fairly, and it is up to individuals to recognize their own biases and prejudices in order to make a fair decision.

In conclusion, "12 Angry Men" is a powerful and timeless movie that explores the concept of justice and the flaws of the justice system. The film's exploration of the characters' biases and prejudices is still relevant today, and the movie's focus on logic and reasoning is a great example of how to make a convincing argument. The tension in the film is masterfully built, and the movie's ending is satisfying and uplifting. Overall, "12 Angry Men" is a must-see movie that deserves its place as a classic of American cinema.