32/28
While serving as a juror in a high-profile murder trial, a family man finds himself grappling with a serious moral dilemma that could sway the jury’s verdict and either convict or acquit the wrongful killer. Kiefer Sutherland got his part. He wrote a letter to Clint Eastwood, telling him how much of a fan he was and that he wanted to star in one of his films before he retired. Kiefer’s father, Donald Sutherland, had starred alongside Clint in Kelly’s Heroes (1970) and Space Cowboys (2000). Open Column: #120 – Gliced Dominates, Snow White Panic, Captain America Disaster (2024) Hard Livin’Written by Chris Stapleton and Kendell MarvelPerformed by Chris StapletonCourtesy of Mercury Nashville RecordsUnder license from Universal Music Enterprises. I saw this film at the TCL Chinese Theater as the closing film of the 2024 AFI Film Festival. Nicholas Hoult stars as the titular character who is forced into a moral dilemma when he is selected to serve on a jury for a murder. The story is "12 Angry Men" which I can’t say much about without creating spoilers. Hoult’s performance is adequate, along with other star-studded cast members including Toni Collette as the prosecutor running for district attorney, J.K. Simmons as Holt’s colleague on the jury, and Gabriel Basso as the defendant. And many more. The story and screenplay are packed with surprises, though not an inescapable conclusion. Eastwood’s direction is solid as usual, but not exceptional; however, given the limitations of the story, I’d say it’s better. So, in summary, this movie is a 7/10, certainly not a 10/10, but not a 4/10 (I reserve ratings of 4 and below for technically incompetent films). Given Warner’s lack of support for the film, it’s recommended if you can find it!. Looking for something different to add to your watchlist? Check out what movies and TV shows are streaming this month.