Clinical Anatomy Of A Murder | Under Lens

Anatomy of a Murder is considered as text book for courtroom drama. Ranked #7^th in AFI's list of Top 10 Courtroom Dramas, movie broke many stereotypes. It also challenged many norms of the era. Even today, Anatomy of a Murder’s brilliance is unchallenged. Big question is, what’s so special about it?

 

Censor Censored: Censorship guidelines were rarely tricked so well. While, Director Producer Otto Preminger played within the limits, the language used along with strong graphic subtext was frowned upon. In courtroom, terminology used was realistic. It was very frank for the era. Apart from language used, the morality of characters and final outcome of the story challenged the standard where Good has to win.

 

Fine Print Of Laws: Usually courtroom dramas are spoiled by melodrama. Though emotions flow in witness box, it’s a rare commodity unlike what movies show. Anatomy of a Murder steer away from the cliché. Movie not only avoid excessive and unnatural display of emotions, it also strives more on circumstantial evidences. Anatomy of a Murder also touches some politically incorrect aspects of law without any inhibition. Lawyers coach the witness and creates impression on jury. Histrionics shown by lawyers on both the sides explores skills used in real courts. Anatomy of a Murder is well researched without prejudices. The fallibility of system was one of the highlights.

 

Grey Matter: Characters are grey, not white, not black. Morality, ethics and integrity are vague terms. Their definition depend more on perspective than being absolute. The lawyer ask his client to wear dress in accordance with what jury might approve of. Accused picks up a subtle hint and states his case. Lawyers design their case in order to influence the jury rather than focusing on justice. These ambiguities make them more interesting and more realistic.

 

Insanity Defense: Insanity, to be more precise irresistible impulse, is used as an excuse for crime. The way defense builds the case around these two words is remarkable. Different aspects like memory loss and rage are used to develop an infallible story. When challenged by prosecution based on opinion of a psychiatrist, the way defense destroys the stand is a pleasure.

 

In Conversation with Arun Purushothaman and Sujoy Ghosh