Anatomy of a Murder . Nashville Scene . 07-28-97

Anatomy of a Murder

DIRECTED BY: Otto Preminger

REVIEWED: 07-28-97

James Stewart defends the innocent again in this oft-overrated Otto Preminger legal drama, which continues to catch audiences napping with its frank testimony about rape and human sexuality. That boldness of approach--combined with a fresh score by Duke Ellington and electrifying performances by Lee Remick and a young George C. Scott--sticks in the mind more than the film's sluggish midsection. Credit Stewart again for doing the film's dirty work: holding our attention as a sweet-natured defense attorney and then shocking us with how hard-edged and aloof he can become while discussing the condition of a victim's panties. That edginess startles Scott as well, and the war of words between the two attorneys provides some of the greatest courtroom sparks this side of Inherit the Wind.

--Noel Murray

Other Films by Otto Preminger
Laura
Skidoo

Film Vault Suggested Links
All the Little Animals
The Talented Mr. Ripley
The Babysitter

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