“You’re an ambulance chaser with a rank. You’re nothing.”
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Courtroom Drama Meets Military Ethics – and Hollywood Ethics – in Sorkin's Debut Before A Few Good Men hit the big screen, Aaron Sorkin's riveting story about two U.S. Marines accused of murder premiered on Broadway in 1989. The play, inspired by true events but not explicitly marketed as such, caught the attention of Hollywood heavyweights, leading to the 1992 film adaptation directed by Rob Reiner. With an all-star cast including Tom Cruise, Jack Nicholson, and Demi Moore, the movie garnered critical acclaim and four Academy Award nominations, including Best Film Editing. Join us – Pete Wright and Andy Nelson – as we continue the 1993 Academy Awards Best Film Editing Nominees member bonus series with a conversation about A Few Good Men.
Unraveling the Truth Behind the Code Red
In our discussion of A Few Good Men, we dive into the central theme of the film – the tension between following orders and doing what's right. As the story unfolds, we witness the journey of Lt. Daniel Kaffee (Tom Cruise) as he navigates the complex world of military justice. We analyze how the film effectively builds suspense, particularly during the intense courtroom scenes, which showcase Sorkin's signature rapid-fire dialogue.
Throughout the episode, we highlight the performances of the stellar cast, including Jack Nicholson's iconic portrayal of Col. Nathan R. Jessup and Demi Moore's strong presence as Lt. Cdr. JoAnne Galloway. We also touch on the film's exploration of the Guantanamo Bay military base and its significance in the story, as well as the fact that the story is based on real events, despite not being explicitly marketed as a "true story."
Other Talking Points
- The film's opening sequence and its impact on setting the tone
- Rob Reiner's direction and his successful run of films in the late 80s and early 90s
- The challenges of adapting a stage play for the big screen
- The film's commentary on the military hierarchy and its potential for abuse of power
A Few Good Men stands as a testament to the power of storytelling, as it expertly weaves together elements of drama, suspense, and moral ambiguity. The film's thought-provoking themes, combined with its outstanding performances and skilled editing, make it a must-see for any fan of courtroom dramas or military-themed movies. We have a great time talking about it, so check it out then tune in. The Next Reel – when the movie ends, our conversation begins!
Film Sundries
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The Next Reel team has been dedicated to reviews, news, and commentary on world film for a decade. This podcast is The Next Reel master feed including all the episodes of The Next Reel, Trailer Rewind, The Film Board, The Speakeasy, and the other shorts, interviews, and specials we've produced over the years.