12 Angry Men

A teenager from a poor neighborhood is on trial for the murder of his father. The evidence seems overwhelming, and eleven of the twelve jurors vote guilty with almost no deliberation. Juror number eight, who votes "not guilty," insists they discuss the case. In 1957, Sidney Lumet filmed in near real-time, within a single room, the most intense and philosophical American courtroom drama about justice, reasonable doubt, and the prejudices that distort reason.

12 Angry Men is the masterpiece of filmed theater: one room, twelve characters, ninety-six minutes, and not a single unnecessary element. Henry Fonda in the definitive role of collective moral conscience. Must be seen in black and white.