The Pelican Brief is a gripping legal thriller based on John Grisham‘s best-selling novel that was released in theaters on Dec. 17, 1993. Directed by Alan J. Pakula, the film stars Julia Roberts as Darby Shaw, a brilliant law student who uncovers a dangerous conspiracy involving the Supreme Court.
When two Supreme Court justices are mysteriously murdered, Darby becomes a target for those who want to silence her after she writes a “brief” outlining her theory on what events may have taken place. With the help of Washington Herald investigative journalist Gray Grantham (Denzel Washington), Darby must navigate a perilous world of political intrigue and corruption involving the FBI, CIA, international assassins, oil tycoons and the White House.
Denzel Washington and Julia Roberts in The Pelican Brief (Photo/Warner Bros.)
The film’s supporting cast, including Sam Shepard, John Heard, William Atherton, James Sikking, Robert Culp, Tony Goldwyn, Stanley Tucci, Hume Cronyn and John Lithgow also deliver solid performances.
Pakula’s direction is masterful, building suspense and tension throughout the film. The screenplay, adapted by Grisham himself, is sharp and intelligent, with a complex plot that keeps the audience guessing. The film’s exploration of political corruption and the abuse of power is still relevant today.
Reception for The Pelican Brief
The Pelican Brief grossed $16.9 million in its opening weekend to capture the No. 1 spot at the box office, topping Mrs. Doubtfire ($9.1 million) in its fourth weekend.
The film would gross $100.8 million domestically a worldwide total of $195.3 million.
Roger Ebert gave the film three out of four stars in his review, writing “the movie delivers while it’s onscreen” but also believed The Pelican Brief was inferior to the film adaptation of Grisham’s The Firm. starring Tom Cruise, Gene Hackman and Jeanne Tripplehorn and directed by Sydney Pollack.
Janet Maslin, in her The New York Times review, wrote “The Pelican Brief is best watched as a celebration of liquid brown eyes and serious star quality, thanks to the casting of Ms. Roberts and Denzel Washington in its leading roles.
Legacy
The Pelican Brief remains a thrilling and thought-provoking film. Its combination of suspense, legal drama, and political intrigue makes it a must-watch for fans of the genre.
