In the wake of the current ongoing pandemic across the nation as well as the world, the American Film Institute launched a "Movie Club" as a celebration and recognition of big-screen inspiration, expression, and escapism.
Many famous stars and filmmakers have presented various selected films on social media, including the nonprofit organization (established in 1967)'s website. And in honor of this "global, virtual gathering of those who love the movies," one classic I'll recommend--which I saw for the first time recently--is 1957's 12 Angry Men.
Adapted from Reginald Ross's teleplay (he wrote the film's script, and co-produced with lead actor Henry Fonda), this courtroom drama marked the directorial debut of Sidney Lumet, and is a prime example of what separates film and cinema from books and stage plays.
On the surface, it's a simple talking picture centered around an ensemble of a dozen celebrated actors (i.e., Lee J. Cobb, Martin Balsam, John Fiedler, E.G. Marshall, Jack Klugman, Jack Warden, Edward Binns, Joseph Sweeney, Ed Begley, George Voskovec, Robert Webber, and, of course, Fonda). What elevates these jury members' discussion of a young man convicted of murder (and a turn of "guilty" votes, initiated by a "not guilty" plea from Fonda's Juror #8) are the technical achievements that immerse viewers in a way stage and books don't.
From camera angles and lenses, to close ups, and rhythmic character-driven tracking shots, there is a subtle transition from above eye level to below eye level, giving the whole experience a very cinematic and engrossing edge. Meanwhile, these characters (some of whom initially appear as insignificant nuances) slowly reveal their views on the central matter, including their own prejudices and forms of ignorance and deep-seated animosity no different than what the defendant has apparently faced. Some of them could care less about the whole situation. Some even stare blankly at the camera (a trademark director Jonathan Demme would later apply to his own career). "Wherever you look," Juror #8 tells us, "Prejudice always obscures the truth."
If anything, 12 Angry Men is a great case of what the U.S. Constitution represents, how conflict resolution techniques should be utilized, and the difference that one individual's observations--over preconceptions--can make; not out of force, but from careful inquiry and not simply going through the motions. On a deeper level, it challenges viewers to evaluate human life and develop understanding and empathy. Now there's a worthwhile message for these unprecedented times.
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