The camera work in "12 Angry Men" was deliberate: "At the beginning of the film, the cameras are all positioned above eye level and mounted with wide-angle lenses to give the appearance of greater distance between the subjects. As the film progresses, the cameras slip down to eye level. By the end of the film, nearly all of it is shot below eye level, in close-up and with telephoto lenses to increase the encroaching sense of claustrophobia." Sidney Lumet was an amazing director.
@@andrewstephens5885 hey I admit I have only watched a quarter of his films but the one I highly rate is a film called the hill. A war movie unlike any other. Must watch
Yeah, I think it actually adds to the play/movie that the names as well as the actual guilt of the boy don't matter and stay unresolved (except the two jurors in the end)
Whether he's guilty or not isn't the point of the movie. Then again, a modern version would probably make the mistake of tacking a reveal of that onto it.
@@Wiley_Coyote that’s what I’m saying. I’m glad there’s nothing that definitely says “he really was innocent the whole time” also, in the play/book we don’t ever even see the kid. Everything starts and ends in the jury room.
@WikeyCoyote69 Thank you for saying that whether he did it or not was not the point of the movie. I've seen people posting videos and comments trying to dissect and argue why the 12 jurors were wrong and why the boy did kill his father and I'm like, "Clearly, they missed the point of the movie"....SMH!!!
We watched this in school and as you can imagine we were pretty dismissive and hesitant about being forced to watch this old movie that's 100% dialog but by the end the entire class was hooked. Actually think it was pretty formative in getting me into more types of movies too
Juror 5 was Jack Klugman, AKA Oscar Madison from the Odd Couple TV series, and made several appearances on The Twilight Zone. Lee J Cobb was Juror 3, and among many other famous appearances, was Detective Kinderman from The Exorcist. And of course, Henry Fonda was Juror 8 (Mr. Davis). He's Henry Fonda. XD
Fun Fact: The actor playing Juror 2 at 2:25 is John Fielder who most know him for providing the voice of Piglet in all of the earliest "Winnie The Pooh" animations. He did his voice from 1980 until 2005, the year he passed away at the age of 80. Whenever I close my eyes when he's talking, I hear Piglet. LOL!
Lee J Cobb's Not Guilty scene is honestly some of the best acting I've ever seen. The body language, the voice breaking, the pauses, the blinking, the darting eyes. Everything's so ridiculously precise.
My teacher showed this to us in English class and everyone was enthralled and completely invested in this movie, I’m so glad she showed this movie to us because it’s definitely one of my favorites now.
@@justarandompeep8945 My English teacher showed this to my class during 9th Grade, I don't think we had the same teacher but her name is Mrs. Iachini.
Someone else who has never seen this incredible movie and once they do they have nothing but high praise for it. It's one of my favourites and I wish more people would watch it. Over 60 years old and yet it still holds its own against more modern classics.
@@michaelgamble2848 yes I've seen that & he done a good job as the one man against the 11. The film was much longer than the original. Some scenes were extended discussing the case in more detail as well as all new scenes adding more depth in the case that did not arise in the original.
Proof that you don't need CGI, multiple locations, constant music, or many characters to make an absolute masterpiece! This movie is in my Top 10 favorite films!
12 Angry Men is one of my favorite films as well. I remember I watched it for the first time in Civics class when I was in 7th grade. My teacher told us that we were gonna be watching a movie called 12 Angry Men and she said that it was an older movie but it’s really good. I remember thinking that it sounded dumb and that it was gonna be boring, but boy was I wrong. The movie had me interested from beginning to end, and I learned my lesson to not be so closed minded and to not judge a book by it’s cover. 12 Angry Men is a masterpiece.
True… But other movies are masterpieces precisely because of those things as well (like LotR). It’s like comparing a freshly baked baguette to a bowl of curry: one is simple, one is complex, both are delicious.
@@jordinagel1184 True. That's why the Lord of the Rings series is my most favorite fantasy series of all time and RotK is in my Top 10 as well. I just really love 12 Angry Men BECAUSE of the fact they use little, yet they use it wonderfully!
YEEESSSS this is a perfect film, honestly. My creative writing teacher in high school showed it to us while we were studying playwriting-it’s such a concise narrative.
@@musicalgenius02 I get that he wouldn't know his face or his filmography, I don't really, but just the name Henry Fonda, I mean he's up their with Marlon Brando in terms of all time famous movie stars.
@@circa81 He didn´t recognize Brando either in The Godfather, had heard of him beforehand, but not seen him. Henry Fonda is almost a generation before that. For Brandon´s generation, he and his contemporaries are far from being household names...
Lee J. Cobb plays Juror #3 (the one with the father/son issues), he was police detective Kinderman in "The Exorcist" (1973). Martin Balsam is Juror #1 (the foreman), he was police detective Arbogast in "Psycho" (1960). Henry Fonda, Juror #8 (main character), was one of the most famous movie stars ever, you should see more of his films. The director Sidney Lumet is one of the best, "Dog Day Afternoon", "Network", "Serpico", "Murder on the Orient Express" (1974), "The Verdict", "Fail Safe", "The Fugitive Kind", "The Hill" all great. Also, the camera work in "12 Angry Men" was deliberate: "At the beginning of the film, the cameras are all positioned above eye level and mounted with wide-angle lenses to give the appearance of greater distance between the subjects. As the film progresses, the cameras slip down to eye level. By the end of the film, nearly all of it is shot below eye level, in close-up and with telephoto lenses to increase the encroaching sense of claustrophobia."
Lee J. Cobb has a great acting here. He also play a older state owner cowboy in a film with Burt Lancaster (also a old law man), great scenes by both of them. Martin Balsam, besides Psycho, enters in a film with Sidney Poitier and Richard Widmark (The Bedford Incident), also good. Henry Fonda, beside several also have one great film, Hitchcock one, that I think is based in a real life case, of a person that is similar and also write in the same way of a wanted criminal. Quite good film also.
In addition you had Jack Warden, EJ Marshall and Jack Klugman three great actors. The rest were character actors who had worked in film and television from the 30's. If you watch old movies and TV you will see them often. I grew up watching them
Another great yet often unsung film of Lumet's is 2007's "Before the Devil Knows You're Dead," his final film and arguably one of his best. Pretty impressive that a director with such a long career spanning so many different eras of cinema managed to evolve with the times and consistently put out top quality work for the entirety of his working life.
This is one of my *favorite* films. It is the perfect exemplar of an ensemble film. There's not an insignificant role in it, and *every* role is cast with a great actor.
They say there's no such thing as a perfect movie, 12 Angry Men is literally the most perfect film I've ever seen. The performances, the writing, the direction, and phenomenal cinematography and it's setting make this film absolutely perfect! This is my favorite film of all time, and it's proof u don't need a big budget with explosions and cgi to make a good film, just a strong story and characters and u have urself a masterpiece.
How can a movie that takes place entirely in one room keep me riveted for 90 minutes. It shows you that people don't need action and CGI, they want characters and dialogue.
@@garyclarke9685 saw bits of it, but not the entire thing. From what I saw though, it was still very well acted, the script is practically word for word the same though and even though I love the original script I felt like the remake didn't do enough changes to modernize the story in a way that made it stand out if that makes sense?
JonGon Productions - I agree absolutely. It is my favourite film as well and for the same reasons you described. And unfortunately with the advent of cgi we are unlikely to see its like again. It is like they have just decided that plot, dialogue and characterisation aren't necessary anymore ... just throw lots of effects around and you have a film, and most of them are complete dross. I'm just hoping that cgi becomes a toy they get bored of and they eventually remember how to make real films again.
The part I liked the most about this film, is what 6 tells 8 in the bathroom "suppose you convince us all to vote not guilty, but the kid did kill his father". It's not clear whether the kid is actually guilty or not, despite all of 8's efforts. The old man might have been mistaken about how much time it took him but still saw the kid, the woman might have been gazing out her window with glasses before noticing something was wrong, and the kid's story about the knife "falling out of his pocket" is awfully suspicious. The kid is as guilty as he isn't guilty. What this movie did was to defend the concept of "innocent until proven guilty" or "beyond reasonable doubt". It's not a movie about a good kid being spared from the chair by a random man. I loved that detail.
Henry Fonda, Lee J. Cobb, Martin Balsam, Jack Warden, Ed Begley, Jack Klugman - almost a who's who of classic American character actors. Haven't seen this since I watched it on the idiots' lantern in the early eighties with my old man but it sure left an impression. Nice reaction, my guy!
I just have to add E.G. Marshall to your list of names, because I thought his performance as juror #4 was fantastic in this film -- one of my very favorite portrayals.
It was such a simple movie. Yet everything is executed to perfection. This movie taught me one thing. "There is nothing wrong with having reasonable doubt"
I remember recommending this to a friend, who only loved high action, cgi-laden movies, and he called me and said he turned it off after 5 minutes, because 'it was black-and-white, and looked boring'. I told him to turn it back on, and just watch it. He rang me again, about two hours later, and said it was (and still is) one of the best movies he's ever seen.
You know how people say things about great casting, like, "no one but Robert Downey Jr. could be Tony Stark, RDJ = Stark," right? I feel that way about Gregory Peck as Atticus Finch. I can't imagine anyone doing better in that role. Absolute icon.
it's easy to rewatch. one of the greatest films. they should show this in schools, teach kids how to see bias and how to think with just the facts in mind.
they literally showed a five minute clip of the knife scene in school and that is literally it, not like anyone my age appreciates movies like these anyways...
As a child the scene where the other jurors all turned their backs on the bigoted juror, help form my idea of what an American should be, and made me so proud to be an American. Unfortunately, I don't know how true it is today.
my guy. Americans will always be a beacon of light no matter what. Don't let outside influences shake your sense of America. Ppl are trying to destory it by dividing us. I have never before ever seen something like this. The principalities are way active to destroy us
@@dontgiveinfo Dear friend, first off, I would like to truly thank you, for your kindness, and the positivity of your comments. There seems to be a need for certain people these days to point out their superiority through arrogance, and snide remarks that have become so common place these days. There exist a certain type of person, in our country, but also worldwide that seems to lust over things that make of different, then use things like unity, reason, and friendship, to learn about and understand each other. Your simple comments make me want to be better, so with that, I hope this finds you well, and that your future days are filled with peace and happiness. Your friend Pete.
Everyone in that room has a star next to their name in every casting director's Rolodex of the time. I won't begin to start citing the hundreds of filmography entries with this cast. The more movies that you see, the more you'll remember that you saw them in 12 Angry Men. Best. Leo.
I love UA-cam reaction videos but my biggest criticism is that they don’t review amazing old classics like this. Hopefully you’ll start a trend and get more people watching older movies deserving appreciation. Haven’t seen this in a million years and makes me want to see it again! Maybe tonight!
Film reactions are relatively new. I think it started booming only last year (2020) and the reason for that might have something to do with copyright laws being more lenient now. Before that, there were plenty of TV reaction channels out there, but I don't think movie reactions were a thing. If there was, they were being taken down because I couldn't find them before and most of the movie reactions I see now are from 2020 to the present. So, yeah, give it a couple of years and UA-cam will be filled with reactions for many different types of movies.
@@selinakyle3194 Me to. Before my wife passed away she would walk through the room and with a beautiful smile and she would say " I see your watching another new release " It's was a running joke we had. I miss this.
Great reaction. There's a reason they say "they don't make 'em like that anymore" There's so many amazing movies from the 30s, 40s, 50s, 60s and 70s worth checking out.
The guy taking the votes at the head of the table is known as the "foreman." He essentially is the voice of the jury to the judge and is kinda in charge during deliberations.
BROOOO! I can't believe you finally picked the film I recommended on when I FIRST commented on your channel. Best script ever written, 12 flawless performances, an action film of words. Perfection!
I have seen 12 Angry men all the way back in high school in English class (second language). I just recognized that Henry Fonda is the man at the window, the juror who is defending the accused. I loved Henry Fonda in Once Upon A Time in The West (1968) a must watch. One of the best westerns out there. EPIC.
One of greatest films of all time! Directed by The Great Sidney Lumet I also recommend Network which is also Sidney Lumet with a fantastic screenplay and brilliant direction!
Brandon makes a really great point early in, who was this kid's defense attorney. Most likely it would've been a public defender, which really means a possibility of getting someone who phones it in. But when you go to the woman who wasn't wearing glasses, and a defense attorney doesn't pick up on an eye-witness not having good sight....yeesh. Also, something great about this movie is that it never actually reveals whether or not the jury got it right, just how they interpreted the case.
@@josephmorneau4339 Not what I meant, but I get your point. Henry Fonda bringing the alternate knife and using it to debunk the 'unique knife' theory would cause a mistrial though haha. It really would.
@@josephmorneau4339 Yes, a lot of people might not understand that reasonable doubt doesn't mean innocent. But that there were problems, holes, questions; with one of them being about the guy's defense, to which he was entitled and didn't get.
Two highlights of my time at school were "High Noon" and "12 angry men"... We saw these films in the german synchronization... "12 Uhr mittags" and "Die 12 Geschworenen"... I was hooked. Later I discovered the original versions and loved it. "12 angry men" is one of my favourites and I watched it a dozend times... like today again ;) All the actors in this film were outstanding!
Flawless. The movie is paced so incredibly well, the dialogue is brilliant. This movie was decades before my time and it feels brand new every time I see it. Truly how to make a timeless movie.
The American Bar Association ranked this as #2 on their list of best legal films,. #1 was "To Kill a Mocking Bird", and #3 was "My Cousin Vinny". You should react to all of them :)
And they're so different from each other too. To Kill a Mockingbird is more of a slice of life with a courtroom drama near the middle, Twelve Angry Men is a super tight stage play adaptation, and My Cousin Vinny is one of the funniest movies out there.
Funny that the Bar Association would rank 12 Angry Men so high. It is a fantastic movie, but if a jury actually did what was done in the film, it would be declared a mistrail. Jurors are not allowed to make suppositions about witnesses (eyeglasses of the woman) or bring in their own evidence (a second knife).
SOOOOOO glad you liked this dude, I could see your passion at every stage. Personally, I think this is the one movie that should be shown in every school. "Beyond reasonable doubt"
Omg that is so good. So much acting skill and intensity. And it exudes empathy. I was heartbroken through the end. All reasons why I prefer that over Dr Strangelove. Some other Lumet films are Pawnbroker, Serpico and Dog Day Afternoon
@@jeffreysmith236 One can put on a blindfold and still follow most of the details. But a ton of info would be missed while watching on mute. Especially since the story largely concerns testimonies. Other films such as The Breakfast Club are the same way. Try imagining both as either radio dramas or silent movies.
@@jp3813 I dunno; seems kinda 50/50 either way. With a blindfold, you'd miss a lot of the interactions that explain the changing relationships between the characters, as well as most of the mood of the movie. I think the point of "show, don't tell" is less a strict dichotomy and more an instruction to fully use the visual nature of the medium and to trust your audience, as there's an inherent tendency in humans to fall into the "and then" style of storytelling that we observe in young kids. A movie should ideally be conveying information in many separate ways at any given moment, using the full "bandwidth" available (eg. lighting, colour palette camera movement, score, etc). You're right, though, that the saying on its own is not overly clear on that point.
@@michaelccozens I'd agree that certain visual moments would be missed, but it's 20/80 at most by my estimate. One would have a way better chance of understanding the case w/ a blindfold as opposed to muting the film. Hence, an adaptation into a radio drama would be a much better fit than into a silent movie. Can you imagine Mad Max: Fury Road as a radio drama? I can easily imagine it as a silent movie. Cinema does allow many different ways to tell a story, but the percentage of each way is up to the filmmaker and that choice is completely valid.
@@jp3813 Fair points, but I'd argue that it's possible that viewing 12AM as a silent film would give a better understanding of the changing relationships between characters, which is arguably more central to the film than the case itself (worth remembering, too, that silent movies usually had text-cards for speech). It's true some narratives lend themselves better to visuals or audio than others. I'd never deny that a good movie can still be made while violating the "show, don't tell" instruction, but I think the point still stands that it would likely take a deliberate effort by a skilled filmmaker to do so, because the tendency of novice visual storytellers to fall back on sub-optimal direct audience instruction would still threaten the quality of a non-"show, don't tell" piece. I'd also note that, if "show, don't tell" were completely invalid, you'd expect a description of a movie to be as compelling as the movie itself, which it clearly (in almost all cases) isn't. So I'm not sure I can sign-on to the "all choices are completely valid" part of your argument. I'd agree that they *can* be, but that, in the vast majority of cases, "show, don't tell" still holds. Not to preempt a response, but I wanted to say thanks for the interesting discussion! It's nice to be reminded that UA-cam comment threads don't have to devolve into personal attacks, and that reasonable people can disagree/discuss reasonably.
Rewatchability factor = endless. I have seen this movie countless times and find it every bit as riveting each time. This is one of those films, such as Goodfellas, that whenever you run into on TV you just have to keep watching until the end. Why? (since we all know the outcome after seeing it for the first time?) Answer = The masterful storytelling involved, on every single level - concept, script, dialogue, directing, acting. Oh, btw... Not to shabby for a first time film, eh? This is the directorial debut of the late great Sidney Lumet. R.I.P.
Braaavo! What a freakin' reaction that was! *laffs* You paid attention to the key factors in every frame of this outstanding film! I'm sure i didn't manage that the first time I saw it. Thank you for a great watch, Brandon.
Started as a play before adaptation to film 1954. Between cinematography, writing, character development and the acting, this is my favorite movie all time. Took classes centered around filmmaking and this one is diagnosed more than most. A cinematic masterclass. Had a term paper on this film was so much fun writing. Just watched it with my 19 year old son and it is one of his favorites, so this film definitely holds up.
The greatest contrast within this film that paints such a poignant picture of the burden of jury duty was the fact that during the deliberations, the whole of the film was shot within that small room and adjoining bathroom. We immediately feel the heat and claustrophobia in that small space, which is sort of a mirror into the crushing responsibility of the deliberations. Then, after deliberations are finished and the men have left the room, the last shot we see is the wide angle view from above the steps and it pans out into the open space of the outdoors. This is highly symbolic of the relief and freedom from that room and the responsibility of jury duty. All of this also mirrors the arc of the boy's future, as he goes from facing prison and the death penalty to being an acquitted and free man. It was some brilliant picture and emotion painting from the camera.
The rewatch value is through the roof because masterpieces never get old. Lee J. Cobb (the loud guy) blows my mind everytime I see him in this movie. His best performance, for sure.
One of my all-time favorite films, with a script by Reginald Rose, Sidney Lumet's remarkable direction, and twelve of the best actors of the time. It had (has) everything going for it.
There are two other examples of brilliant filmmaking using one room: Tarantino’s suspenseful story in “The Hateful Eight” is set in a cabin to unfold his masterful who-done-it. Then of course, there’s Hitchcock’s “Rear Window” which holds the viewer in its grip; while we watch the events of what appears to be murder, along with a witness of happenstance...from his apartment window.
Plus Reservoir Dogs and Glengarry Glen Ross! I have a dreadful attention span for films and one-room, no special effects idea is the only thing that keeps me attention throughout.
That moment when the picture falls out of Lee Cobbs wallet made me emotional in a way that validates the idea that people project their own pain in the way they see society. A masterpiece for sure.
@Darkstar The big factor is the nature of recollection, especially over time. Not to mention, the human ability, if not propensity, to rationalize and massage memories, often unintentionally. Best. Leo.
The budget for this film was less than $350,000. The film was nominated for four Oscars: Best picture, best director, best screenplay, and cinematography. It was Sydney Lumet's directorial debut in film. Quite an auspicious beginning to a career that yielded three other Oscar nominations for "Network," "Dog Day Afternoon," and The Verdict." He was my favorite director. He was chosen by Reginald Rose and Henry Fonda because he had a reputation for working well with actors and bringing projects in on time and on budget. His choice of camera angles is taught in film school.
As a movie fan who has seen a lot of old movies I can tell you this movie is loaded with the top acting talent of the time. From movies to tv, these guys are in a lot of stuff. Sidney Lumet directed Fail Safe too. That's another movie that takes place in a relatively small environment and it gets intense. Lumet also directed Dog Day Afternoon which is a MUST SEE. A big part of why this movie works for me is that the issues presented are timeless. We see that eyewitness testimony can be untrustworthy. We see how prejudices can undermine everything. We see how some people can do bad even while they think they are doing good. We see how the majority can use its power to intimidate and attack anyone who dares to be different. The writing is exceptional. Each of these actors had enough material that they were able to create unique characters even within the limited location and interactions that they had. None of them fades into the group as a generic juror.
Lee J. Cobb's acting throughout is incredible. So believable, so relateable. How he's able to flip the switch between a despicable character to the most sympathetic...
@@jamesoblivion shit you're right. They just sound so similar because of the same composer, but they are different directors. My bad, thanks for the correction. Still watch the movie though
Bro you gotta watch Jeremiah Johnson, literally one of the first old movies I watched and it was with my Grandpa. Some good memories and really taught me that old movies aren’t all bad
I like to point out that the eldest juror, #9, was born in 1884. His father grew up during the Civil War. Our parents and grandparents grew up during Sweeney's final years. So we are just two or three generations away from the Civil War (1861-1865). The actor who voiced Piglet was a juror. Ed Begley Jr's father was the bigot. Sidney Lumet had the actors run the lines packed into that room, no camera, as a way to ramp up the tensions.
This film is an American legend, the cast is a list legendary American character actors, remember the last juror hold out from The Exorcist, the detective. The great Lee J. Cobb.
Watched this movie four hours ago. It was just amazing, and it made me think of you immediately because out of all the amazing creators out there, your reactions are the ones I relate to the most. I almost cried tears of joy when I found this reaction video. You mentioned the rewatch value of this film; Well, for me, it skyrocketed after I re-watched this masterpiece with you. Already watched this video twice. You’re awesome, man.
This movie, along with Who's Afraid of Virginia Woolf, is a masterclass for young filmmakers on how to shoot one primary location while keeping it visually interesting, along with compelling writing.
True. I really didn’t like Virginia Woolf though. I’m not a fan of family fighting dramas to begin with and Taylor and Burton’s arguing was like nails on chalkboard for me. I just couldn’t keep going.
I didn't care for who's afraid of virginia woolf. It was successful because it made me feel uncomfortable, which is what they were going for, but I didn't like feeling so uncomfortable.
When I first saw this movie in 2013, I couldn't find a single thing wrong with it. Absolute 10 out of 10, and even after multiple viewings, it still gets better and stronger. Masterpiece!!
Most reactors do not have what it takes to tackle A Clockwork Orange. I think our guy has the makeup to handle what most haven´t been able too. Forewarned, it´s a lot to handle if you do it.
I guess still too much for Brandon, I´m sorry, he is already hesitant to react to Wolf of Wall Street, because he heard about the explicit scenes in it...
I don't think you'd seen him in Better Call Saul yet when you watched this, but Juror 10, the racist guy, is played by Ed Begley, the father of Ed Begley Jr who plays Cliff Main in BCS.
This movie is as good as I remember. I've watched a live play of 12 angry men and I can say it is written so well. It works as a movie and a play and is something that really stuck with me from school.
I remember my Accounting/Business Law teacher assigning us to watch the 1997 remake in high school. I found the original in the public library, so I watched that. My teacher still gave me credit, of course. The remake is actually available to watch on UA-cam for free. That's how I finally managed to watch it recently.
I am glad you commented one of my favourite movies, I tried to watch all the people who commented it an I think your analysis was the sharpest : bravo ! I regret you omitted to show when the man with the handkerchief (number 10) asks the man with the suspenders (number 11) why he was so polite, and the answer is : « For the same reason you are not, that’s the way I was brought up ! » … what a line ! I hope you will watch and comment more and more classics from the Golden Age of Hollywood (and the English Ealing studios too), there were so much great directors, great dialogues and great actors then ! May I suggest George Cukor’s Gaslight ? Thank you from France 🇫🇷
Classic, of course, with a terrific cast. Lee J. Cobb (also in On the Waterfront and The Exorcist) was such a great actor. And Sidney Lumet directed so many excellent movies: Fail Safe, Network, The Pawnbroker, Long Day’s Journey into Night, Dog Day Afternoon come immediately to mind...
Some classics i’d recommend are Rear Window, It’s a Wonderful Life, Singin in the Rain, The Apartment, Psycho, North by Northwest, and Some Like it Hot
Did you notice that the 75-year old man who talked about wanting someone to remember his name is one of the two characters we ever got a name for? McArdle.
@@cluster_f1575 It is still my favorite western, and the use of Henry Fonda was great. Plus it is worth it just to see the shot of the Spanish Arch with the bell in Monument Valley.
OUATITW is definitely a good idea, might be my favorite movie of all time, can never go wrong with Sergio Leone and Ennio Morricone though. Shame it's so often overshadowed by TGTBATU and the rest of the Dollars Trilogy since I think OUATITW is the superior film out of the 4 Leone Westerns (5 if you count 'Duck, You Sucker!'), all are fantastic though.
This was an ensemble cast. With a well written and eternally important story. Directed by a master of light and cameras. This movie is an exercise in perfection.
![12 Angry Men (1957) Movie Reaction [First Time Watching]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/zM1Y1nC5fC0/mqdefault.jpg)
I hate saying the word "masterpiece" as I think it's overused...but this film truly is a masterpiece. It still holds up today.
It really is and it really does.
I love the older trial dramas with this kind of dialogue. Inherit The Wind is another one I'd call a masterpiece, along with To Kill a Mockingbird.
I wouldn't go that far
@@jasonvoorhees310You can be wrong. It's your right!
@@sydhamelin1265 its better than to kill a mockingbird.
The camera work in "12 Angry Men" was deliberate: "At the beginning of the film, the cameras are all positioned above eye level and mounted with wide-angle lenses to give the appearance of greater distance between the subjects. As the film progresses, the cameras slip down to eye level. By the end of the film, nearly all of it is shot below eye level, in close-up and with telephoto lenses to increase the encroaching sense of claustrophobia." Sidney Lumet was an amazing director.
That and the room was made smaller as the movie progresses. Not noticeably but enough to get the feeling of tension.
Thankyou for the info I didn't know that
we need brandon to watch DOG DAY AFTERNOON !! another sidney lumet classic and it’s a great movie all around he would love it
@@andrewstephens5885 hey I admit I have only watched a quarter of his films but the one I highly rate is a film called the hill. A war movie unlike any other. Must watch
@@andrewstephens5885 And Failsafe
No special effects, no action, only one location and twelve people talking, but it draws you in and gets you completely involved. Absolute greatness.
Very well articulated, this movie is old, but it never "gets old".
Adding a 13th person didn't hurt either.
Truly gripping because of the plot, acting and direction. All around fantastic movie
Movies based on plays tend to rely on script and performances, no fluff at all. "Glengarry Glen Rose" is another example.
@@pablom-f8762 it was originally written as a television show in 1954 then adapted to the stage in 1955. It was released as a feature film in 1957.
"There's 12 main characters and I'm gonna have to keep track of their names..."
If you can count to 12, I think you're good to go.
Yeah, I think it actually adds to the play/movie that the names as well as the actual guilt of the boy don't matter and stay unresolved (except the two jurors in the end)
@@JonathanMandrake because they could be anybody not just particularly the men that are in the room right now
I love that it never tells us if the kid ACTUALLY killed his father. It’s just that they decided there’s not enough evidence.
Whether he's guilty or not isn't the point of the movie.
Then again, a modern version would probably make the mistake of tacking a reveal of that onto it.
@@Wiley_Coyote that’s what I’m saying. I’m glad there’s nothing that definitely says “he really was innocent the whole time” also, in the play/book we don’t ever even see the kid. Everything starts and ends in the jury room.
@@Wiley_Coyote A 'modern' version was remade in 1997. I don't believe it had that reveal either... and it was a damn fine version as well.
@WikeyCoyote69 Thank you for saying that whether he did it or not was not the point of the movie. I've seen people posting videos and comments trying to dissect and argue why the 12 jurors were wrong and why the boy did kill his father and I'm like, "Clearly, they missed the point of the movie"....SMH!!!
I wonder if Brandon will cover Rashomon (1950).
We watched this in school and as you can imagine we were pretty dismissive and hesitant about being forced to watch this old movie that's 100% dialog but by the end the entire class was hooked. Actually think it was pretty formative in getting me into more types of movies too
Same here
I've since watched many of those actors in many movies.
I watched it in school as well.
I watched this in school too! I had a 10th grade Government class that we watched this and then went over a bunch of related things. Great class.
I'd seen it long before my English lit class, and was probably one of the few that was excited to see it again instead of doing the usual work.
I always cry when Henry Fonda helps Lee J. Cobb with the jacket in the end
I get misty myself 😢
So just so you know, Juror 2 (the timid guy) is the original voice for Piglet from Winnie the Pooh.
I always thought it was so funny how obvious it was just by listening to him talk.
And he was still doing Piglet until his passing in the 2000s
He was also on The Bob Newhart Show in the 70's. Great actor.
He went to my high school!
Juror 5 was Jack Klugman, AKA Oscar Madison from the Odd Couple TV series, and made several appearances on The Twilight Zone.
Lee J Cobb was Juror 3, and among many other famous appearances, was Detective Kinderman from The Exorcist.
And of course, Henry Fonda was Juror 8 (Mr. Davis). He's Henry Fonda. XD
Fun Fact: The actor playing Juror 2 at 2:25 is John Fielder who most know him for providing the voice of Piglet in all of the earliest "Winnie The Pooh" animations. He did his voice from 1980 until 2005, the year he passed away at the age of 80. Whenever I close my eyes when he's talking, I hear Piglet. LOL!
I *knew* there was a reason I loved him and his voice so much! Piglet's a favorite character of mine.
@@AJPwny I can't believe I couldn't recognize the voice I feel like an idiot. Man I wish I could meet John Fielder and thank him for the memories.
@@brilicusgaming6922 Oh, me too. He was a _huge_ part of my childhood, I would have loved to meet him.
He also played on Star Trek episode Wolf in the Fold. 1:55
@@brilicusgaming6922sadly he died in 2005 at the age of 80
Lee J Cobb's Not Guilty scene is honestly some of the best acting I've ever seen. The body language, the voice breaking, the pauses, the blinking, the darting eyes. Everything's so ridiculously precise.
He had just won an Oscar 6 years earlier for supporting actor in On The Waterfront……he’s great in the exorcist too
Huh! Until I read this comment, I never made the connection that he's the detective in The Exorcist.
Now it seems obvious.
Great actor.
@@kdizzle901 He was only nominated for an Oscar, actually twice. Never won though.
Best and most consistent TV/Movie reactor on YT.
By far
So accurate
Agreed. So many others are annoying or say empty comments.
Definitely one of the most prolific. "Best" is subjective though I enjoy his reviews.
Facts
My teacher showed this to us in English class and everyone was enthralled and completely invested in this movie, I’m so glad she showed this movie to us because it’s definitely one of my favorites now.
That's awesome. I think everyone should see this movie. A great lesson also.
Same with my english teacher. Wonder if we where in the same class? Haha
@@zackbellegarde6923 I don’t recognize your name but what was your teachers name?
@@justarandompeep8945 My English teacher showed this to my class during 9th Grade, I don't think we had the same teacher but her name is Mrs. Iachini.
Someone else who has never seen this incredible movie and once they do they have nothing but high praise for it. It's one of my favourites and I wish more people would watch it. Over 60 years old and yet it still holds its own against more modern classics.
Me too! I made a point of showing the film to my teenage sons
There's a pretty solid remake with Jack Lemmon that came out in the late 90's that was good too.
@@michaelgamble2848 yes I've seen that & he done a good job as the one man against the 11. The film was much longer than the original. Some scenes were extended discussing the case in more detail as well as all new scenes adding more depth in the case that did not arise in the original.
Good stories don’t age, hence the Classics.
Proof that you don't need CGI, multiple locations, constant music, or many characters to make an absolute masterpiece! This movie is in my Top 10 favorite films!
12 Angry Men is one of my favorite films as well. I remember I watched it for the first time in Civics class when I was in 7th grade. My teacher told us that we were gonna be watching a movie called 12 Angry Men and she said that it was an older movie but it’s really good. I remember thinking that it sounded dumb and that it was gonna be boring, but boy was I wrong. The movie had me interested from beginning to end, and I learned my lesson to not be so closed minded and to not judge a book by it’s cover. 12 Angry Men is a masterpiece.
True… But other movies are masterpieces precisely because of those things as well (like LotR). It’s like comparing a freshly baked baguette to a bowl of curry: one is simple, one is complex, both are delicious.
@@jordinagel1184 True. That's why the Lord of the Rings series is my most favorite fantasy series of all time and RotK is in my Top 10 as well. I just really love 12 Angry Men BECAUSE of the fact they use little, yet they use it wonderfully!
@@IsaacLikesGames same here, excerpt it was my 9th grade social studies
What you do need is a great script, a great director, and twelve great actors.
YEEESSSS this is a perfect film, honestly. My creative writing teacher in high school showed it to us while we were studying playwriting-it’s such a concise narrative.
Henry Fonda father of Jane and Peter Fonda one the greatest actors of all time
I'm shocked he didn't even recognize his name.
@@circa81 maybe because Brandon doesn’t know many classic actors from Henry Fonda era
@@musicalgenius02 I get that he wouldn't know his face or his filmography, I don't really, but just the name Henry Fonda, I mean he's up their with Marlon Brando in terms of all time famous movie stars.
@@circa81 He didn´t recognize Brando either in The Godfather, had heard of him beforehand, but not seen him. Henry Fonda is almost a generation before that. For Brandon´s generation, he and his contemporaries are far from being household names...
@@circa81 you mean Marlon my brotha and yeah your right on that
Great movie,it's the exact type of movie where you forget that people in film are actors
Lee J. Cobb plays Juror #3 (the one with the father/son issues), he was police detective Kinderman in "The Exorcist" (1973). Martin Balsam is Juror #1 (the foreman), he was police detective Arbogast in "Psycho" (1960). Henry Fonda, Juror #8 (main character), was one of the most famous movie stars ever, you should see more of his films. The director Sidney Lumet is one of the best, "Dog Day Afternoon", "Network", "Serpico", "Murder on the Orient Express" (1974), "The Verdict", "Fail Safe", "The Fugitive Kind", "The Hill" all great.
Also, the camera work in "12 Angry Men" was deliberate: "At the beginning of the film, the cameras are all positioned above eye level and mounted with wide-angle lenses to give the appearance of greater distance between the subjects. As the film progresses, the cameras slip down to eye level. By the end of the film, nearly all of it is shot below eye level, in close-up and with telephoto lenses to increase the encroaching sense of claustrophobia."
Lee J. Cobb has a great acting here. He also play a older state owner cowboy in a film with Burt Lancaster (also a old law man), great scenes by both of them. Martin Balsam, besides Psycho, enters in a film with Sidney Poitier and Richard Widmark (The Bedford Incident), also good. Henry Fonda, beside several also have one great film, Hitchcock one, that I think is based in a real life case, of a person that is similar and also write in the same way of a wanted criminal. Quite good film also.
In addition you had Jack Warden, EJ Marshall and Jack Klugman three great actors. The rest were character actors who had worked in film and television from the 30's. If you watch old movies and TV you will see them often. I grew up watching them
Another great yet often unsung film of Lumet's is 2007's "Before the Devil Knows You're Dead," his final film and arguably one of his best. Pretty impressive that a director with such a long career spanning so many different eras of cinema managed to evolve with the times and consistently put out top quality work for the entirety of his working life.
This is one of my *favorite* films. It is the perfect exemplar of an ensemble film. There's not an insignificant role in it, and *every* role is cast with a great actor.
They say there's no such thing as a perfect movie, 12 Angry Men is literally the most perfect film I've ever seen. The performances, the writing, the direction, and phenomenal cinematography and it's setting make this film absolutely perfect! This is my favorite film of all time, and it's proof u don't need a big budget with explosions and cgi to make a good film, just a strong story and characters and u have urself a masterpiece.
How can a movie that takes place entirely in one room keep me riveted for 90 minutes. It shows you that people don't need action and CGI, they want characters and dialogue.
@@gunman462 Watch "The Sunset Limited" and "The Man From Earth." Both are in one room.
Brilliant said. Yes the film is in my top 5 & have seen it many times. Did you ever see the remake?:like to know what you thought.
@@garyclarke9685 saw bits of it, but not the entire thing. From what I saw though, it was still very well acted, the script is practically word for word the same though and even though I love the original script I felt like the remake didn't do enough changes to modernize the story in a way that made it stand out if that makes sense?
JonGon Productions - I agree absolutely. It is my favourite film as well and for the same reasons you described. And unfortunately with the advent of cgi we are unlikely to see its like again. It is like they have just decided that plot, dialogue and characterisation aren't necessary anymore ... just throw lots of effects around and you have a film, and most of them are complete dross. I'm just hoping that cgi becomes a toy they get bored of and they eventually remember how to make real films again.
The part I liked the most about this film, is what 6 tells 8 in the bathroom "suppose you convince us all to vote not guilty, but the kid did kill his father".
It's not clear whether the kid is actually guilty or not, despite all of 8's efforts. The old man might have been mistaken about how much time it took him but still saw the kid, the woman might have been gazing out her window with glasses before noticing something was wrong, and the kid's story about the knife "falling out of his pocket" is awfully suspicious.
The kid is as guilty as he isn't guilty. What this movie did was to defend the concept of "innocent until proven guilty" or "beyond reasonable doubt". It's not a movie about a good kid being spared from the chair by a random man. I loved that detail.
Henry Fonda, Lee J. Cobb, Martin Balsam, Jack Warden, Ed Begley, Jack Klugman - almost a who's who of classic American character actors. Haven't seen this since I watched it on the idiots' lantern in the early eighties with my old man but it sure left an impression. Nice reaction, my guy!
Henry Fonda was a leading man, not a character actor.
I mean, piglet was in this movie. How could someone not like piglet.
Ed Begly, Jr, (son of Ed Begly, Sr. who is in this movie), is also an actor, best known for the series St. Elsewhere.
@@Myrdden71 and Better Call Saul too
I just have to add E.G. Marshall to your list of names, because I thought his performance as juror #4 was fantastic in this film -- one of my very favorite portrayals.
It was such a simple movie. Yet everything is executed to perfection. This movie taught me one thing. "There is nothing wrong with having reasonable doubt"
I remember recommending this to a friend, who only loved high action, cgi-laden movies, and he called me and said he turned it off after 5 minutes, because 'it was black-and-white, and looked boring'. I told him to turn it back on, and just watch it. He rang me again, about two hours later, and said it was (and still is) one of the best movies he's ever seen.
have you ever seen "to kill a mockingbird"
Excellent choice, loved the movie as well as the novel
@@tessesmom I liked the novel much more but the film is really good too.
I've been suggesting To Kill A Mockingbird to many reactors. So far nobody has watched it. Brandon could set the trend ;-)
I'm going to second the call to react to this wonderful film. One of the truly great court scenes of all time.
You know how people say things about great casting, like, "no one but Robert Downey Jr. could be Tony Stark, RDJ = Stark," right? I feel that way about Gregory Peck as Atticus Finch. I can't imagine anyone doing better in that role. Absolute icon.
it's easy to rewatch. one of the greatest films. they should show this in schools, teach kids how to see bias and how to think with just the facts in mind.
they literally showed a five minute clip of the knife scene in school and that is literally it, not like anyone my age appreciates movies like these anyways...
As a child the scene where the other jurors all turned their backs on the bigoted juror, help form my idea of what an American should be, and made me so proud to be an American. Unfortunately, I don't know how true it is today.
It's an ideal we should strive for and identify with America, even if it isn't presently reality.
Except now, EVERYONE is "bigoted" unless they support Leftism and anti-White, anti-West narratives.
my guy. Americans will always be a beacon of light no matter what. Don't let outside influences shake your sense of America. Ppl are trying to destory it by dividing us. I have never before ever seen something like this. The principalities are way active to destroy us
@@dontgiveinfo Dear friend, first off, I would like to truly thank you, for your kindness, and the positivity of your comments. There seems to be a need for certain people these days to point out their superiority through arrogance, and snide remarks that have become so common place these days. There exist a certain type of person, in our country, but also worldwide that seems to lust over things that make of different, then use things like unity, reason, and friendship, to learn about and understand each other. Your simple comments make me want to be better, so with that, I hope this finds you well, and that your future days are filled with peace and happiness. Your friend Pete.
@@petercastaneda5338 Agree
Everyone in that room has a star next to their name in every casting director's Rolodex of the time. I won't begin to start citing the hundreds of filmography entries with this cast. The more movies that you see, the more you'll remember that you saw them in 12 Angry Men. Best. Leo.
What is a Rolodex. Haha. JK
The Twilight Zone is a good start. lol
@@StCerberusEngel Klugman alone was a fourpeater. Best. Leo.
@@MessOfThings A portable cost-effective database for finite number of records using a paper-based firmware storage system. Best. Leo.
@@michaelbastraw1493 That’s the most complicated explanation of a Rolodex I’ve ever seen in my life. 😆
I love UA-cam reaction videos but my biggest criticism is that they don’t review amazing old classics like this. Hopefully you’ll start a trend and get more people watching older movies deserving appreciation. Haven’t seen this in a million years and makes me want to see it again! Maybe tonight!
Film reactions are relatively new. I think it started booming only last year (2020) and the reason for that might have something to do with copyright laws being more lenient now. Before that, there were plenty of TV reaction channels out there, but I don't think movie reactions were a thing. If there was, they were being taken down because I couldn't find them before and most of the movie reactions I see now are from 2020 to the present.
So, yeah, give it a couple of years and UA-cam will be filled with reactions for many different types of movies.
There is a reactor named Mia Tiffany and she watches many old classic films. You should check it out. Great reactor.
@Darkstar I saw it with my younger brother about a year ago and my god is it so beautifully amazing
Who else that watched this movie actually felt a little relief when the fan started working and the rain came?
You could almost feel it drying the sweat on their shirts. I love old films
@@selinakyle3194 Me to. Before my wife passed away she would walk through the room and with a beautiful smile and she would say " I see your watching another new release " It's was a running joke we had. I miss this.
@@tbrackett9344 Sorry for your loss.
Such an amazing cast in this one. The delight on your face as each juror changed their vote was worth the watch. Kudos, man! Enjoy the day.
Great reaction. There's a reason they say "they don't make 'em like that anymore" There's so many amazing movies from the 30s, 40s, 50s, 60s and 70s worth checking out.
The guy taking the votes at the head of the table is known as the "foreman." He essentially is the voice of the jury to the judge and is kinda in charge during deliberations.
and important to note that the jurors elect the foreman amongst themselves
@@rumble7382 Did not know that.
BROOOO! I can't believe you finally picked the film I recommended on when I FIRST commented on your channel. Best script ever written, 12 flawless performances, an action film of words. Perfection!
I have seen 12 Angry men all the way back in high school in English class (second language). I just recognized that Henry Fonda is the man at the window, the juror who is defending the accused. I loved Henry Fonda in Once Upon A Time in The West (1968) a must watch. One of the best westerns out there. EPIC.
This movie is a masterpiece. You can watch it anytime and anywhere. It's timeless. Just amazing.
One of greatest films of all time! Directed by The Great Sidney Lumet
I also recommend Network which is also Sidney Lumet with a fantastic screenplay and brilliant direction!
Network has some of the best acting. I’d second that recommendation!
Peter Finch, amazing actor. His performance is fantastic. I’M AS MAD AS HELL, AND I AM NOT GONNA TAKE IT ANYMORE !!!!!!!!!! Amazing!
The type of movie that gets people into old movies. A masterpiece.
Brandon makes a really great point early in, who was this kid's defense attorney. Most likely it would've been a public defender, which really means a possibility of getting someone who phones it in.
But when you go to the woman who wasn't wearing glasses, and a defense attorney doesn't pick up on an eye-witness not having good sight....yeesh.
Also, something great about this movie is that it never actually reveals whether or not the jury got it right, just how they interpreted the case.
Of course they got it "right". And by "right" I mean they didn't convict even though they had reasonable doubt.
@@josephmorneau4339 Not what I meant, but I get your point.
Henry Fonda bringing the alternate knife and using it to debunk the 'unique knife' theory would cause a mistrial though haha. It really would.
@@josephmorneau4339 Yes, a lot of people might not understand that reasonable doubt doesn't mean innocent. But that there were problems, holes, questions; with one of them being about the guy's defense, to which he was entitled and didn't get.
Not guilty doesn’t mean innocent.
@@sydhamelin1265 Yes, that knife move is actually problematic in terms of being on jury duty.
Two highlights of my time at school were "High Noon" and "12 angry men"... We saw these films in the german synchronization... "12 Uhr mittags" and "Die 12 Geschworenen"... I was hooked. Later I discovered the original versions and loved it. "12 angry men" is one of my favourites and I watched it a dozend times... like today again ;) All the actors in this film were outstanding!
12 Angry Men was original a teleplay in the early days of television. They literally did the play live on tv, camera moves and all
Yes, I came to point this out! That is why it’s one set and all that. Just love it.
Flawless. The movie is paced so incredibly well, the dialogue is brilliant. This movie was decades before my time and it feels brand new every time I see it. Truly how to make a timeless movie.
A film every human being has to watch at least once - and every film-maker should watch over and over again!
The American Bar Association ranked this as #2 on their list of best legal films,. #1 was "To Kill a Mocking Bird", and #3 was "My Cousin Vinny". You should react to all of them :)
And they're so different from each other too. To Kill a Mockingbird is more of a slice of life with a courtroom drama near the middle, Twelve Angry Men is a super tight stage play adaptation, and My Cousin Vinny is one of the funniest movies out there.
My Cousin Vinny is fantastic and really highlights what a talented actor Joe Pesci is. He’s HILARIOUS and Marisa Tomei deserved that Oscar!
I'm surprised Anatomy of a Murder isn't on the list.
Funny that the Bar Association would rank 12 Angry Men so high. It is a fantastic movie, but if a jury actually did what was done in the film, it would be declared a mistrail. Jurors are not allowed to make suppositions about witnesses (eyeglasses of the woman) or bring in their own evidence (a second knife).
@@taddy_mason4197 It was number 4. ^-^
SOOOOOO glad you liked this dude, I could see your passion at every stage. Personally, I think this is the one movie that should be shown in every school. "Beyond reasonable doubt"
I highly recommend Sidney Lumet's incredible thriller, Fail Safe.
Omg that is so good. So much acting skill and intensity. And it exudes empathy. I was heartbroken through the end. All reasons why I prefer that over Dr Strangelove.
Some other Lumet films are Pawnbroker, Serpico and Dog Day Afternoon
yes, the 1964 version, not the remake
He has an incredible filmography. His final film, Before The Devil Knows You're Dead, is fantastic.
Everything Sidney Lumet for sure
@@acdragonrider Can't go wrong with Dog Day Afternoon and Serpico. Both essential viewing.
This is honestly one of the best films of all time and one of my favorites, glad you watched it
Anyone who thinks "show, don't tell" is the only way to make a film doesn't remember this classic.
there is a lot of show in this, but it is all people's faces and body language as well as voice tone.
@@jeffreysmith236 One can put on a blindfold and still follow most of the details. But a ton of info would be missed while watching on mute. Especially since the story largely concerns testimonies. Other films such as The Breakfast Club are the same way. Try imagining both as either radio dramas or silent movies.
@@jp3813 I dunno; seems kinda 50/50 either way. With a blindfold, you'd miss a lot of the interactions that explain the changing relationships between the characters, as well as most of the mood of the movie.
I think the point of "show, don't tell" is less a strict dichotomy and more an instruction to fully use the visual nature of the medium and to trust your audience, as there's an inherent tendency in humans to fall into the "and then" style of storytelling that we observe in young kids. A movie should ideally be conveying information in many separate ways at any given moment, using the full "bandwidth" available (eg. lighting, colour palette camera movement, score, etc). You're right, though, that the saying on its own is not overly clear on that point.
@@michaelccozens I'd agree that certain visual moments would be missed, but it's 20/80 at most by my estimate. One would have a way better chance of understanding the case w/ a blindfold as opposed to muting the film. Hence, an adaptation into a radio drama would be a much better fit than into a silent movie. Can you imagine Mad Max: Fury Road as a radio drama? I can easily imagine it as a silent movie. Cinema does allow many different ways to tell a story, but the percentage of each way is up to the filmmaker and that choice is completely valid.
@@jp3813 Fair points, but I'd argue that it's possible that viewing 12AM as a silent film would give a better understanding of the changing relationships between characters, which is arguably more central to the film than the case itself (worth remembering, too, that silent movies usually had text-cards for speech). It's true some narratives lend themselves better to visuals or audio than others. I'd never deny that a good movie can still be made while violating the "show, don't tell" instruction, but I think the point still stands that it would likely take a deliberate effort by a skilled filmmaker to do so, because the tendency of novice visual storytellers to fall back on sub-optimal direct audience instruction would still threaten the quality of a non-"show, don't tell" piece.
I'd also note that, if "show, don't tell" were completely invalid, you'd expect a description of a movie to be as compelling as the movie itself, which it clearly (in almost all cases) isn't. So I'm not sure I can sign-on to the "all choices are completely valid" part of your argument. I'd agree that they *can* be, but that, in the vast majority of cases, "show, don't tell" still holds.
Not to preempt a response, but I wanted to say thanks for the interesting discussion! It's nice to be reminded that UA-cam comment threads don't have to devolve into personal attacks, and that reasonable people can disagree/discuss reasonably.
Rewatchability factor = endless.
I have seen this movie countless times and find it every bit as riveting each time.
This is one of those films, such as Goodfellas, that whenever you run into on TV you just have to keep watching until the end.
Why? (since we all know the outcome after seeing it for the first time?) Answer = The masterful storytelling involved, on every single level - concept, script, dialogue, directing, acting.
Oh, btw... Not to shabby for a first time film, eh? This is the directorial debut of the late great Sidney Lumet. R.I.P.
Braaavo! What a freakin' reaction that was! *laffs* You paid attention to the key factors in every frame of this outstanding film! I'm sure i didn't manage that the first time I saw it. Thank you for a great watch, Brandon.
Started as a play before adaptation to film 1954. Between cinematography, writing, character development and the acting, this is my favorite movie all time. Took classes centered around filmmaking and this one is diagnosed more than most. A cinematic masterclass. Had a term paper on this film was so much fun writing. Just watched it with my 19 year old son and it is one of his favorites, so this film definitely holds up.
The greatest contrast within this film that paints such a poignant picture of the burden of jury duty was the fact that during the deliberations, the whole of the film was shot within that small room and adjoining bathroom. We immediately feel the heat and claustrophobia in that small space, which is sort of a mirror into the crushing responsibility of the deliberations. Then, after deliberations are finished and the men have left the room, the last shot we see is the wide angle view from above the steps and it pans out into the open space of the outdoors. This is highly symbolic of the relief and freedom from that room and the responsibility of jury duty. All of this also mirrors the arc of the boy's future, as he goes from facing prison and the death penalty to being an acquitted and free man. It was some brilliant picture and emotion painting from the camera.
The rewatch value is through the roof because masterpieces never get old. Lee J. Cobb (the loud guy) blows my mind everytime I see him in this movie. His best performance, for sure.
One of my all-time favorite films, with a script by Reginald Rose, Sidney Lumet's remarkable direction, and twelve of the best actors of the time. It had (has) everything going for it.
There are two other examples of brilliant filmmaking using one room: Tarantino’s suspenseful story in “The Hateful Eight” is set in a cabin to unfold his masterful who-done-it.
Then of course, there’s Hitchcock’s “Rear Window” which holds the viewer in its grip; while we watch the events of what appears to be murder, along with a witness of happenstance...from his apartment window.
I think Hateful 8 is coming soon! And I second Rear Window,
What about that film where a sniper had that guy pinned inside a phonebox for the whole movie. That was a thrilling movie.
Plus Reservoir Dogs and Glengarry Glen Ross! I have a dreadful attention span for films and one-room, no special effects idea is the only thing that keeps me attention throughout.
That moment when the picture falls out of Lee Cobbs wallet made me emotional in a way that validates the idea that people project their own pain in the way they see society. A masterpiece for sure.
Historically, eyewitness testimony is some of the most unreliable evidence. Best. Leo.
also Jesus
@Darkstar The big factor is the nature of recollection, especially over time. Not to mention, the human ability, if not propensity, to rationalize and massage memories, often unintentionally. Best. Leo.
You need to watch more older movies. How about Rear Window.
Another great movie that shows that you don't even need to change the location a story is set in.
One of my favorite movies!
Hitchcock's best movie
@@Theakker3B Agreed wholeheartedly.
I second this suggestion! Rear window is high in my top ten films ever.
Two other classic movies I love are Casablanca,and Dr.Strangelove subtitled or how I learned to stop worrying and love the bomb.
This film so easily transports you to another scene without ever leaving the room!
You did _12 Angry Men_ 😎. Now to _The Seventh Seal_ (1957), _To Kill a Mockingbird_ (1962), _The Hustler_ (1961), _Rope_ (1948), among others.
I was shown this in government class in high school, super dig that out teacher showed us it, I loved it.
This film should be mandated viewing before you ever get called to jury duty lmao
Ever since I’ve seen this movie, I can’t stop singing it’s praises to everyone I see. It’s definitely in my top 10, if not top 5, favorite movie ever!
I recently discovered this movie ,now I wonder what other amazing films I'm missing out on
The budget for this film was less than $350,000. The film was nominated for four Oscars: Best picture, best director, best screenplay, and cinematography. It was Sydney Lumet's directorial debut in film. Quite an auspicious beginning to a career that yielded three other Oscar nominations for "Network," "Dog Day Afternoon," and The Verdict." He was my favorite director. He was chosen by Reginald Rose and Henry Fonda because he had a reputation for working well with actors and bringing projects in on time and on budget. His choice of camera angles is taught in film school.
If we're going this far back, do Dr. Strangelove (1964). Six decades old and still one of the funniest and most savagely satirical films ever made.
As a movie fan who has seen a lot of old movies I can tell you this movie is loaded with the top acting talent of the time. From movies to tv, these guys are in a lot of stuff. Sidney Lumet directed Fail Safe too. That's another movie that takes place in a relatively small environment and it gets intense. Lumet also directed Dog Day Afternoon which is a MUST SEE. A big part of why this movie works for me is that the issues presented are timeless. We see that eyewitness testimony can be untrustworthy. We see how prejudices can undermine everything. We see how some people can do bad even while they think they are doing good. We see how the majority can use its power to intimidate and attack anyone who dares to be different. The writing is exceptional. Each of these actors had enough material that they were able to create unique characters even within the limited location and interactions that they had. None of them fades into the group as a generic juror.
This film will stand the test of time forever.
Lee J. Cobb's acting throughout is incredible. So believable, so relateable. How he's able to flip the switch between a despicable character to the most sympathetic...
In the that genre of movies, I recommend also watching "Anatomy of a Murder".
Check out The Hustler, staring Paul Newman. it's the same composer as this movie and has a very similar sound. It's another real classic.
Robert Rossen directed The Hustler. 12 Angry Men was directed by Sidney Lumet.
@@jamesoblivion shit you're right. They just sound so similar because of the same composer, but they are different directors. My bad, thanks for the correction. Still watch the movie though
@@bigtubbz100 yeah it is a great film. Also, Paul Newman is always a delight to watch.
@@Bjjbhcoa86 Yeah he is. Cool hand Luke, Butch Cassidy and Sundance kid are some of my favorites
Bro you gotta watch Jeremiah Johnson, literally one of the first old movies I watched and it was with my Grandpa. Some good memories and really taught me that old movies aren’t all bad
I like to point out that the eldest juror, #9, was born in 1884. His father grew up during the Civil War. Our parents and grandparents grew up during Sweeney's final years. So we are just two or three generations away from the Civil War (1861-1865). The actor who voiced Piglet was a juror. Ed Begley Jr's father was the bigot. Sidney Lumet had the actors run the lines packed into that room, no camera, as a way to ramp up the tensions.
This film is an American legend, the cast is a list legendary American character actors, remember the last juror hold out from The Exorcist, the detective. The great Lee J. Cobb.
Out of all the movies out there, this one is my all time fav!!! I can put this on at any time and still enjoy it. Thank you for watching it! 💜
That long take in the beginning is still one of the best long takes and pieces of cinematography I've ever seen, it lasts about 8 minutes!
This was the kind of stuff that I grew up watching. Action is fun but actual acting by legends like these actors is something incredible to watch.
Watched this movie four hours ago. It was just amazing, and it made me think of you immediately because out of all the amazing creators out there, your reactions are the ones I relate to the most. I almost cried tears of joy when I found this reaction video. You mentioned the rewatch value of this film; Well, for me, it skyrocketed after I re-watched this masterpiece with you. Already watched this video twice. You’re awesome, man.
This movie, along with Who's Afraid of Virginia Woolf, is a masterclass for young filmmakers on how to shoot one primary location while keeping it visually interesting, along with compelling writing.
True. I really didn’t like Virginia Woolf though. I’m not a fan of family fighting dramas to begin with and Taylor and Burton’s arguing was like nails on chalkboard for me. I just couldn’t keep going.
Both directorial debuts too, for Sidney Lumet and Mike Nichols, both legends.
I didn't care for who's afraid of virginia woolf. It was successful because it made me feel uncomfortable, which is what they were going for, but I didn't like feeling so uncomfortable.
When I first saw this movie in 2013, I couldn't find a single thing wrong with it. Absolute 10 out of 10, and even after multiple viewings, it still gets better and stronger. Masterpiece!!
Most reactors do not have what it takes to tackle A Clockwork Orange. I think our guy has the makeup to handle what most haven´t been able too. Forewarned, it´s a lot to handle if you do it.
I guess still too much for Brandon, I´m sorry, he is already hesitant to react to Wolf of Wall Street, because he heard about the explicit scenes in it...
It would require a lot of editing, LOL.
Glengarry Glen Ross is another great movie you should watch.
Big thumbs up for that recommendation.
Oh, my goodness, YES!
phenomenal suggestion!
I only have one thing to say about this recommendation ... Put the coffee DOWN!
👍👍
I don't think you'd seen him in Better Call Saul yet when you watched this, but Juror 10, the racist guy, is played by Ed Begley, the father of Ed Begley Jr who plays Cliff Main in BCS.
Great catch!
This is one of my all time favorite movies.
This is an oceans eleven cast some of the heaviest hitters in that time period and beyond ....
You would love The Apartment. It's on par with this movie in terms of filmmaking skill, in my opinion.
This movie is as good as I remember. I've watched a live play of 12 angry men and I can say it is written so well. It works as a movie and a play and is something that really stuck with me from school.
I don’t really know why, but I got extremely (unhealthy-like) excited when I say the notification!
Fun fact: Ed Begley, who played Juror #10, was the father of the actor who played Cliff Main in Better Call Saul!
The guy at the beginning agreeing for innocence is the Legendary Henry Fonda.
Arguing. Phone speller?
I remember my Accounting/Business Law teacher assigning us to watch the 1997 remake in high school. I found the original in the public library, so I watched that. My teacher still gave me credit, of course. The remake is actually available to watch on UA-cam for free. That's how I finally managed to watch it recently.
I love classic movies... Your reaction is amazing: I recommend Vertigo, The Apartment, Breakfast at Tiffany's, Casablanca and It's a wonderful life
I am glad you commented one of my favourite movies, I tried to watch all the people who commented it an I think your analysis was the sharpest : bravo !
I regret you omitted to show when the man with the handkerchief (number 10) asks the man with the suspenders (number 11) why he was so polite, and the answer is : « For the same reason you are not, that’s the way I was brought up ! » … what a line !
I hope you will watch and comment more and more classics from the Golden Age of Hollywood (and the English Ealing studios too), there were so much great directors, great dialogues and great actors then !
May I suggest George Cukor’s Gaslight ?
Thank you from France 🇫🇷
If this film was made today it would end with Henry Fonda’s character laughing like Al Pacino at the end of Devil’s Advocate.
Classic, of course, with a terrific cast. Lee J. Cobb (also in On the Waterfront and The Exorcist) was such a great actor. And Sidney Lumet directed so many excellent movies: Fail Safe, Network, The Pawnbroker, Long Day’s Journey into Night, Dog Day Afternoon come immediately to mind...
Rewatchability? Yes, can't get enough of those performances! Definitely try to see it every 5 years or so. -- just loved your reaction! 😍😍😍
Fantastic reaction to realizing the train was passing when the old man said he heard yelling! You could see it click in his head. *Thumbs Up*
Some classics i’d recommend are Rear Window, It’s a Wonderful Life, Singin in the Rain, The Apartment, Psycho, North by Northwest, and Some Like it Hot
Fine choices, I believe he has seen Psycho already tho, before he started the channel.
I’d add Casablanca and On The Waterfront to your good list for him too.
@@td811 i’ve managed to still not see casablanca or on the waterfront
@@maxis5650 oh that sucks it would’ve been cool to see his reaction especially if he was going in blind to it
Did you notice that the 75-year old man who talked about wanting someone to remember his name is one of the two characters we ever got a name for? McArdle.
If you like Henry Fonda then watch Mr. Roberts or Once Upon A Time in The West.
Once Upon A Time in The West is such an underrated film. You can see how much of Quentin Tarrantino's films were inspired by it.
@@cluster_f1575 It is still my favorite western, and the use of Henry Fonda was great. Plus it is worth it just to see the shot of the Spanish Arch with the bell in Monument Valley.
OUATITW is definitely a good idea, might be my favorite movie of all time, can never go wrong with
Sergio Leone and Ennio Morricone though. Shame it's so often overshadowed by TGTBATU and the rest of the Dollars Trilogy since I think OUATITW is the superior film out of the 4 Leone Westerns (5 if you count 'Duck, You Sucker!'), all are fantastic though.
So Pulver how long have you been on board ? Fourteen months.....
@@bluebird3281 Cagney was great in that movie.
This was an ensemble cast. With a well written and eternally important story. Directed by a master of light and cameras. This movie is an exercise in perfection.