Great Video
I absolutely loved watching "the Verdict" directed by Sydney Lumet... especially knowing the back story... The first time I watched this story, I was rivted.. as I watched it again, some 10 years later, I wasn't as impressed until I read Syndey's account of making this incredible film.

Good story line, good plot..twist... great acting, because despite the David and Goliath theme...which can at times be so over done.. this film delivered a stellar performance.

Terrible!
I found this movie terrible--the acting, especially of Paul Newman--was lackluster. He seemed to be half-asleep throughout the role. There was nothing gripping about this story. And there were quite a few plotholes that made the story UNBELIEVABLE, especially the forced, contrived ending. It is highly overrated so don't waste your money buying it--there are so many better courtroom dramas around.

TO TELL THE TRUTH
Terrific cast headed by Newman, whose career has declined due to alcohol.Disregarding all advice, he puts his neck on the line, trying to prove malpractice against 2 prominent Bahstin physicians. Defense attorney Mason sends one doctor on vacation to the Bahamas, is friendly with the judge, and has a staff seemingly large enough to fill Fenway Pahk. He also has Rampling, Newman's alleged girlfriend, who's gone over to the enemy. Meanwhile, Newman has only Warden doing his legwork and a 74 year old unlicensed physician working for him. As the case comes to a close, a former nurse from N.Y. is found who gives damaging testimony against the defendants, but is thrown out on a legal technicality. Newman wins his case anyway, and a full measure of self respect, The slow pacing of the movie is its only signficant drawback. Everyone, especiallly at film's end seems to feed off of Newman's exhaustion. It's a wonder that anyone is awake when the verdict comes in, including the viewer. Otherwise this production is top shelf, well worthy of purchase.

What a great movie
There are very few directors as good as Sidney Lumet and there are even fewer writers as good as David Mamet. Throw in Paul Newman and James Mason, in roles that stand out in their outstanding careers, and you understand what makes "The Verdict" such a classic. When it comes to legal thrillers, it doesn't get any better than this.

Paul Nemans The Verdict was Awesome
I got this not knowing what to expect. I didn't watch it when it came out but glad I got the chance to see it. A down and out lawyer takes on a case that is surely a loosing one. No witnesses and everything is on shakey ground. What's in it besides money is pure pride and Newman is not going to let them get the best of him. He turns down offers to end the case early even without a hope or prayer and going up against a shrewd opposing lawyer. As the movie unfolds several characters develop and the movie has a supprise ending. A great ending to a great movie. I was really supprised. Hard to say if this was Newman's best performance but he couldn't have done any better for the type of movie it was.