A Civil Action
Plot
"A Civil Action" tells the story of Jan Schlichtmann, a successful but disillusioned attorney who has grown tired of the monotony and corruption of big-city law firms. When a young boy in Woburn, Massachusetts develops leukemia after drinking contaminated water from a local well, Schlichtmann sees an opportunity to prove himself and make a name for his struggling firm by taking on the case. Initially, Schlickmann approaches the matter with his characteristic cynicism, viewing it as just another way to pad his pockets. However, as he delves deeper into the case, he becomes increasingly consumed by the plight of the affected families and the shocking reality of the pollution that has ravaged their community. Schlichtmann's investigation reveals a complex web of deceit and neglect on the part of corporate giants like Beatrice Foods and W.R. Grace, who had knowingly dumped toxic chemicals into the local water supply. As he digs deeper, he faces opposition from powerful forces determined to keep the truth hidden, including ruthless lawyers, corrupt politicians, and even some of his own colleagues. Despite the overwhelming odds against him, Schlickmann becomes obsessed with winning the case, driven by a sense of justice and a determination to make things right for the innocent victims. He forms an unlikely alliance with a young mother, Anne Anderson, whose son has also fallen ill, and together they navigate the treacherous landscape of corporate law and small-town politics. As the trial approaches, Schlickmann's fixation on the case takes a toll on his personal life, causing him to neglect his own relationships and reputation. His obsession ultimately leads to a courtroom showdown that tests his mettle as an attorney and his humanity as a person. Through Schlichtmann's journey, "A Civil Action" explores themes of morality, responsibility, and the human cost of environmental degradation. The film is a powerful critique of corporate greed and bureaucratic indifference, and a testament to the resilience and determination of those fighting for justice in the face of overwhelming adversity.
Reviews
Joy
The truly remarkable are driven by an unwavering tenacity. After over a decade in practice, left with only $14 in his pocket and alienated from everyone – what kind of sentiment, what grand fearlessness is that? Whether the courtroom is a place to uphold justice or merely to mediate is a very good question.
Elijah
The director, unsurprisingly, being the screenwriter of Schindler's List, delivers another story of personal moral awakening and elevation against a backdrop of heavy money worship. Interestingly, it seems all the main characters in the film, to varying degrees, "despise money"? The protagonist and the plaintiff female teacher, who only seeks an apology and scorns compensation, are prime examples. Even Grace's boss forbids business talk at the club, and Duval's old lawyer carries a worn briefcase and insists on a daily period of solitude undisturbed by work! ... Three and a half stars.
Thiago
Finding truth in the courtroom is impossible. What should a lawyer do – seek mediation or fight for justice? Often, the challenges we face are insurmountable by legal means alone, but holding onto a belief in what is right is what keeps us moving forward. [The source material, *A Civil Action*, is a must-read for law students. [Cameos from familiar faces from American TV series' past.]
Esther
The film suffers from disproportionate pacing, resulting in a drawn-out and top-heavy narrative.
Max
What measures a person's life? Judging from the comments on Bilibili, many people are completely lost after watching this film.
Peter
"A gripping courtroom drama, 'A Civil Action' showcases Jan Schlickmann's transformation from a cynical lawyer to a driven advocate. As he becomes obsessed with a seemingly trivial case, he discovers its potential for millions, leading to a relentless pursuit of justice. With outstanding performances and a tightly-wound script, this film masterfully explores the complexities of the law and the human spirit."
Nicholas
This film, through the story of a lawyer, reveals the intense conflict between money and morality in the legal profession. Jan Schlickmann becomes obsessed with pursuing massive damages, even sacrificing his personal life and family.
