Hastings & Hastings’ Favorite Legal Movies (Part One)

It is safe to say, most of us here at Hastings & Hastings love legal movies. What isn’t to like? They are interesting, complex, dramatic, fun, and entertaining! There is a wide range of different types of legal movies all well, from comedies, to dramas, to hard hitting documentaries. In our next two blogs, we will look at some of our favorite legal movies.

1. To Kill a Mockingbird

For many lawyers, this legendary movie based on novel by Harper Lee, is the one that got them interested in the legal profession. Gregory Peck’s portrayal of the noble and quietly courageous Atticus Finch was inspiring to almost everyone who saw it. Atticus fought for justice even when the odds seemed stacked against him. He remained faithful to his beliefs and acted as an amazing role model to his children. Although the movie came out in 1962, because it touches on timeless themes and human drama, it still resonates with audiences today.

2. 12 Angry Men

Based off of a stage play written by Reginald Rose, few movies even today are as taut, dramatic, and atmospheric as 12 Angry Men. Nearly every minute of the movie takes place in one single scene – a jury room. The film focuses on the deliberations of a jury in a death penalty cases. Upon initial voting, every member of the juror believes the accused man is guilty, save one individual. Tensions rise as the eponymous 12 angry men bicker back and forth. Every man carries with him his own history, opinions and prejudices. Almost 60 years have passed since 12 Angry Men hit the big screen, yet still today it may be the greatest movie ever about the psychology and proceedings of a jury.