One of the most obvious differences between real life and Hollywood films is the fact that good guys don't always win at the end. Americans were reminded of this uncomfortable truth at the end of O.J. Simpson trial. This eye-opening affair served as an inspiration for some Hollywood film makers and resulted in Primal Fear, 1996 courtroom thriller directed by Gregory Hoblit.
Plot is based on the best-selling novel by William Diehl and set in city of Chicago. Protagonist is Martin 'Marty' Vail (played by Richard Gere), wealthy and successful criminal defence lawyer who rose to prominence by representing the most notorious underworld figures and other seemingly hopeless defendants in high-profile cases. One of such high-profile cases begins with the brutal murder of Richard Rushman (played by Stanley Anderson), beloved Catholic archbishop of Chicago. Police quickly apprehends the perfect suspect in the form of Aaron Stampler (played by Edward Norton), epileptic 19-year old boy from Kentucky. Archbishop's blood was found on the Stampler's clothes, but Vail nevertheless begins representing the boy and gradually begins believing in his innocence. His investigation leads him to believe that there was third person involved in murder and consequent snooping around indicate that Archibishop stepped on the toes of some powerful city businessmen and politicians, including Vail's former boss John Shaughnessy (played by John Mahoney). The trial is nevertheless going to be a challenge, partly because the prosecution is led by Vail's former girlfriend Janet Venable (played by Laura Linney).
The most noticeable thing about Primal Fear is truly impressive cast. Richard Gere perhaps didn't look like the most obvious choice for the role of attorney who develops conscience, but he nevertheless plays that role very well. Edward Norton in the role of his defendant is, however, much better, especially since the role required skills usually associated with "Oscar" nomination. The list of supporting talents is equally impressive and includes such prominent names like John Mahoney, Alfre Woodard, Frances MacDormand - and some of them, like Woodard, deliver interesting performances.
Unfortunately, good cast also makes some of this movie's flaws more obvious. Laura Linney displays great talent in one of the most thankless roles in recent memory. Andre Braugher as Vail's investigative assistant is another waste of resources – his character pales in comparison with the role of Pembleton in Homicdie: Life on the Street. Main problem with Primal Fear is over-ambitious script by Steve Shagan and Ann Biderman that tries to deal with too many issues - legal ethics, political corruption, organised crime, sexual perversions. Because of that, director Gregory Hoblit, who learned his trade on television, wasn't the most fortunate choice for this project. So much content simply wasn't suitable for the feature film format, and many of the film's subplots simply go nowhere. The main plot is drowned in usual courtroom drama cliches - sensational revelations and the "surprise" plot twist that wasn't so surprising for any experienced viewer. Because of that, Primal Fear is a disappointment. One of the more interesting disappointments, but disappointment nevertheless.
RATING: 4/10 (+)
(Note: The text in its original form was posted in Usenet newsgroup rec.arts.movies.reviews on December 4th 2002)
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