Viewed in
2007
Premise
Adaptation of Harper Lee's novel.
Who should watch
Film buffs. Gregory Peck fans.
Thoughts
Just an awesome film. Gregory Peck deserved his Best Actor award for his greatest acting role. Arguably one of the greatest onscreen fathers/heroes of all time. Atticus Finch was strong, just, and cool.
As for the rest of the cast, they were very good. It was as if Brock Peters was channeling Sidney Poitier with his dignified and heart-breaking performance. Also, it was pretty cool seeing Robert Duvall's first acting role.
The adaptation was well done, it has been a long time since I read the novel, but all the memorable scenes were there, done to perfection. Part of me felt the courtroom scene halted the pace. But I understood that this film was as much about Scout as it was about Atticus.
The courtroom scene was a must see. It was a testament to America's struggles against ignorance and uphill battle for equality for all. On top of the themes were tour-de-force performances from Peck and Peters. The last part of the scene packed one of of the greatest emotional punches. Like the audience in the courtroom, I wanted to stand up and salute to Atticus' courage and sense of justice.
What I would change
Nothing.
