The film begins with images that are likely to linger in your memory: the violent attack and killing of a young girl by two men in Mississippi. Prior to their trial, the men are shot dead in the courtroom by the girl’s grieving father, Carl Lee Hailey, portrayed by Samuel L. Jackson. It then becomes Brigance's responsibility, played by Matthew McConaughey, to defend him within a state marked by widespread prejudice and discrimination. Kevin Spacey delivers a solid performance as the prosecuting attorney, Buckley, who believes the all-white jury will never find it possible to convict of murder a black man who killed these despicable individuals; however, he fails to anticipate the courage shown by Brigance and his spirited assistant, Ellen, played by Sandra Bullock, despite threats against them and their families. Joel Schumacher successfully conveys the deeply racist atmosphere present in John Grisham's novel through powerful, though not excessively graphic, depictions of how "justice" was expected to operate, even while there’s no question about the guilt of either the initial rapists/killers or the girl’s vengeful father. McConaughey is excellent; he possesses a youthful appearance, but convincingly portrays his resolute character. Bullock also shines – demonstrating in one particularly difficult scene that she's capable of more than her usual roles involving witty banter. As always, Patrick McGoohan performs exceptionally well as Judge Noose, and Donald Sutherland, Kiefer Sutherland, and even Brenda Fricker’s brief appearance contribute to the sense that there remains some measure of hope (and ultimately futility) against the deeply ingrained attitudes of that era. The final speech delivered by Brigance is particularly impactful. Samuel L. Jackson received a Golden Globe nomination, and his appearances are well-managed but infrequent; I was surprised by the lack of recognition for McConaughey, as he skillfully holds this disturbing, sometimes quite upsetting drama together until its conclusion. It’s not an easy film to watch, but it's certainly worthwhile.

Source on TMDB