Courtroom dramas are a favorite of mine and sometimes they work, sometimes not. A FEW GOOD MEN works, thanks to a fine script by Aaron Sorkin from his play, Rob Reiner's taut direction, and the extremely effective performances from a solid cast.
Not surprisingly, in a role that is tailor-made for his talents, JACK NICOLSON almost walks off with the film. Not quite, but almost. At least, he's the one who makes the deepest impression as the extremely bigoted, controlling officer who is never at a loss for explosive and sarcastic comments. He doesn't have that many scenes in the film, but when he's on camera, the fireworks are the strongest--and you know that there will be a final confrontation for the wind-up that will have him and TOM CRUISE face to face in a shouting match.
TOM CRUISE does well as the lawyer defending two young marines on a murder charge and DEMI MOORE is satisfactory as his assistant. But their performances never quite reach the degree of power that Nicholson's does, restricted as they are by less showy roles.
Discovering the story behind the marine's murder and the facts surrounding that mystery is what holds audience interest from start to finish. Facts are revealed, little by little, and we know we're in for a final showdown between the rather callow young lawyer and the hardened marine officer with the chip on his shoulder. Compelling drama, well worth watching.
Not surprisingly, in a role that is tailor-made for his talents, JACK NICOLSON almost walks off with the film. Not quite, but almost. At least, he's the one who makes the deepest impression as the extremely bigoted, controlling officer who is never at a loss for explosive and sarcastic comments. He doesn't have that many scenes in the film, but when he's on camera, the fireworks are the strongest--and you know that there will be a final confrontation for the wind-up that will have him and TOM CRUISE face to face in a shouting match.
TOM CRUISE does well as the lawyer defending two young marines on a murder charge and DEMI MOORE is satisfactory as his assistant. But their performances never quite reach the degree of power that Nicholson's does, restricted as they are by less showy roles.
Discovering the story behind the marine's murder and the facts surrounding that mystery is what holds audience interest from start to finish. Facts are revealed, little by little, and we know we're in for a final showdown between the rather callow young lawyer and the hardened marine officer with the chip on his shoulder. Compelling drama, well worth watching.