The Verdict

The Verdict

Year: 1982

Runtime: 129 min

Language: Persian

Director: Sidney Lumet

Drama

Wrongfully accused of murdering his beloved, Arash languishes in prison, maintaining his innocence to his grieving mother, Fereshteh. Determined to prove his innocence, they enlist the help of a skilled lawyer to investigate the case and uncover the truth. Their quest for justice leads them through a complex web of doubt and uncertainty as they fight to clear Arash's name and expose the real killer.

Warning: spoilers below!

Haven’t seen The Verdict yet? This summary contains major spoilers. Bookmark the page, watch the movie, and come back for the full breakdown. If you're ready, scroll on and relive the story!

Timeline & Setting – The Verdict (1982)

Explore the full timeline and setting of The Verdict (1982). Follow every major event in chronological order and see how the environment shapes the story, characters, and dramatic tension.

Time period

1980s

The movie is set in the 1980s, a decade marked by significant changes in both legal practices and societal views on ethics in healthcare. During this period, there was a growing awareness of patient rights and the accountability of medical professionals, which is pivotal to the film's central narrative. This era also saw a shift in the portrayal of legal battles as a fierce contest of morals and justice.

Location

Catholic hospital, New York City

The primary setting of the movie is a Catholic hospital, known for its historical significance and the nuanced moral dilemmas it presents. The unfolding drama highlights legal and ethical complexities within the medical field. New York City serves as a backdrop for the personal interactions, embodying a place of ambition and connection amidst professional chaos.

🏥 Hospital 🗽 City

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 22:44

Main Characters – The Verdict (1982)

Meet the key characters of The Verdict (1982), with detailed profiles, motivations, and roles in the plot. Understand their emotional journeys and what they reveal about the film’s deeper themes.

Frank Galvin (Paul Newman)

Frank Galvin is a once-promising lawyer whose career has fallen into disarray due to his self-destructive behavior. Throughout the movie, he grapples with his professional decline while striving to reclaim his integrity by fighting for justice in a challenging medical malpractice case. His determination and emotional depth make him a compelling character as he navigates the treacherous waters of the legal system.

👨‍⚖️ Lawyer 🎭 Redemption

Ed Concannon (James Mason)

Ed Concannon is the formidable opposing lawyer representing the Catholic hospital. He is characterized by his strategic skill and ability to manipulate public sentiment in his favor. Concannon's confidence and ethical ambiguity create a significant obstacle for Galvin as he ultimately represents an institution steeped in power and influence.

💼 Lawyer 🎭 Antagonist

Laura Fischer (Charlotte Rampling)

Laura Fischer is a bartender who forms an intimate connection with Frank Galvin. Representing both his emotional refuge and a source of conflict, Laura's character adds depth to Galvin's personal journey. Her actions and feelings reflect the complexities of love and loyalty amid the backdrop of the courtroom drama.

🥃 Bartender ❤️ Love Interest

Kaitlin Costello (Lindsay Crouse)

Kaitlin Costello is an admitting nurse whose testimony becomes pivotal in the trial. Her character embodies the struggles of navigating professional ethics and personal integrity, especially when faced with coercion by superiors. Kaitlin's courage to stand against the hospital's malpractice highlights the theme of truth amidst pressure.

👩‍⚕️ Nurse 🔍 Truth

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 22:44

Major Themes – The Verdict (1982)

Explore the central themes of The Verdict (1982), from psychological, social, and emotional dimensions to philosophical messages. Understand what the film is really saying beneath the surface.

⚖️ Justice

The theme of justice is central to the film, exploring the complexities involved in seeking accountability for negligence in the medical field. Galvin's pursuit of justice reflects a broader societal struggle between individual rights and institutional power. The film also challenges viewers to consider the moral implications of legal decisions.

💔 Personal Redemption

Frank Galvin's journey is emblematic of personal redemption, as he seeks to right his past wrongs and find purpose in his life. His emotional turmoil and determination evolve throughout the trial, representing a quest for self-worth tied to the defense of a vulnerable patient. Ultimately, it underscores the transformative power of standing up for what one believes in.

🤝 Trust Betrayal

The theme of trust betrayal is explored through Galvin's relationships, notably with Kaitlin and his former partner. The revelation of deceit within the legal system and personal connections illustrates the fragile nature of trust, especially in high-stakes environments. This betrayal significantly impacts Galvin's strategies and emotional well-being.

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 22:44

Unlock the Full Story of The Verdict

Don't stop at just watching — explore The Verdict in full detail. From the complete plot summary and scene-by-scene timeline to character breakdowns, thematic analysis, and a deep dive into the ending — every page helps you truly understand what The Verdict is all about. Plus, discover what's next after the movie.

The Verdict Summary

Read a complete plot summary of The Verdict, including all key story points, character arcs, and turning points. This in-depth recap is ideal for understanding the narrative structure or reviewing what happened in the movie.

The Verdict Summary

The Verdict Timeline

Track the full timeline of The Verdict with every major event arranged chronologically. Perfect for decoding non-linear storytelling, flashbacks, or parallel narratives with a clear scene-by-scene breakdown.

The Verdict Timeline

More About The Verdict

Visit What's After the Movie to explore more about The Verdict: box office results, cast and crew info, production details, post-credit scenes, and external links — all in one place for movie fans and researchers.

More About The Verdict

Similar Movies to The Verdict

Discover movies like The Verdict that share similar genres, themes, and storytelling elements. Whether you’re drawn to the atmosphere, character arcs, or plot structure, these curated recommendations will help you explore more films you’ll love.