A rising young attorney successfully defends a man accused of murder, only to have the same type of murder then happen again. Right away the previously defended man hires the attorney again, and although the attorney is quite certain that he is the killer, he agrees to again defend him... much to the consternation of his friends. However, he explains that by being his attorney he will be better able to catch the man in a mistake... and on this the rest of the film develops, with the killer playing a cat and mouse game with the attorney until, at last, they both must recognize that they are not all that different.
"Criminal Law" (1989), a gripping legal thriller produced by Hemdale Film Corporation and Northwood Productions in Canada, delves deep into the complexities of the justice system. Directed by Martin Campbell and starring Gary Oldman and Kevin Bacon, the film follows the story of a brilliant defense attorney, Ben Chase, who successfully defends a client, Martin Thiel, against murder charges. However, when Thiel is suspected of committing similar crimes post-acquittal, Chase is drawn into a dangerous game of cat and mouse as he tries to stop his former client. The film masterfully explores the ethical dilemmas faced by lawyers and the moral ambiguities inherent in the legal profession. Gary Oldman's portrayal of Ben Chase is both compelling and nuanced, capturing the internal conflict of a man torn between his professional duty and his personal sense of justice. Kevin Bacon's chilling performance as Martin Thiel adds a layer of psychological tension, making the audience question the nature of guilt and innocence. Set against the backdrop of a gritty urban landscape, "Criminal Law" effectively uses its Canadian setting to enhance the film's atmosphere of suspense and moral decay. The cinematography and pacing contribute to a sense of unease, keeping viewers on the edge of their seats as the plot unfolds. The film's narrative is tightly woven, with twists and turns that keep the audience guessing until the very end. "Criminal Law" stands out as a thought-provoking examination of the criminal justice system, challenging viewers to consider the consequences of legal victories and the true cost of defending the indefensible. With strong performances and a gripping storyline, this 1989 film remains a standout in the genre of legal thrillers, offering a compelling look at the dark side of the law.
Year1989
Budget5000000$
Runtime114 min
Revenue9974446$
Watch online
GenresDramaThrillerRomance
Production countriesCanada
