If you enjoy films and TV series that revolve around legal issues, lawyers, courtrooms, and the whole milieu included within that environment, Primal Fear is a must-see! A solid movie from start to finish with twists and turns all over the place, Primal Fear is just as fresh and engaging as it was back in 1996.
The film is a sophisticated, intense, courtroom-thriller with an amazing cast. Helming the film is Richard Gere (Pretty Woman, Chicago) as a tough-as-nails defense lawyer who takes up the case of a teenage boy accused of murder (Edward Norton, Fight Club, Red Dragon, in his first major film role).
Gere must fight the odds and go up against a strong-willed prosecutor and former love interest played by Laura Linney (You Can Count On Me, Congo, Frasier).
Also along for the ride are several other familiar faces including John Mahoney (Frasier), Terry O’Quinn (Lost, Millennium), Alfre Woodard (The Family That Preys), Frances McDormand (Fargo), Maura Tierney (ER, Liar,Liar), and Stanley Anderson (The Rock, Armageddon). It’s a who’s who that is fun to watch, especially seeing TV folks like Mahoney and O’Quinn using colorful profanity.
Along with audio commentary by the director, writer, executive producer, producer, and casting director, the Primal Fear: Hard Evidence Edition also includes:
Primal Fear: The Final Verdict
A look back at the making of the film with anecdotes from the cast and crew. Sadly, Richard Gere is MIA.
Primal Fear: Star Witness
The process of finding and the discovery of Edward Norton for the role of accused murderer Aaron Stampler.
Psychology of Guilt
A mini-documentary about the use of psychology in criminal prosecution and its use in developing the script for the film.
Primal Fear gets an A. A solid and well-made legal drama with a great cast and intriguing story. Also comes in a cool crime scene evidence bag!!!
I really loved the ending of this movie, it is a lot better for Ed Norton than the glossy ending of Fight Club.