Primal Fear (1996)

Synopsis of Primal Fear

A high-profile slaying becomes the case of an ambitious attorney's career in this legal thriller based on the novel by William Diehl. Richard Gere stars as Martin Vail, a famed defense lawyer who volunteers his services to Aaron Stampler (Edward Norton), a Kentucky teenager charged with the murder of a Chicago archbishop. Covered with blood, Aaron was captured after a foot chase broadcast live on TV, making a gleeful Vail certain that he could raise his profile by defending the obviously guilty suspect. Assigned to prosecute is Assistant District Attorney Janet Venable (Laura Linney), who is Vail's ex-girlfriend. Vail's case becomes more complicated than he expected when a psychologist, Dr. Molly Arrington (Frances McDormand) concludes that Stampler suffers from multiple personality disorder. Vail also uncovers evidence that the archbishop was involved in a corrupt land scheme and may have molested young parishioners. Now the cynical, opportunistic attorney is faced with a daunting prospect, a client who may actually deserve his best defense. Its shocking, twist ending made Primal Fear (1996) a big box office hit and earned Norton, in his screen debut, an Oscar nomination for Best Supporting Actor. ~ Karl Williams, Rovi

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Theatrical Feature Running Time:

130 mins

Director(s):

Gregory Hoblit

Writer(s):

Ann Biderman, Steve Shagan

Producer(s):

Gary Lucchesi

Theatrical MPAA Rating:

R(Graphic Violence)

Categories:

Mystery & Suspense

• 1996 - Chicago Film Critics Association - Most Promising Actor
• 1996 - Hollywood Foreign Press Association - Best Performance by an Actor in a Supporting Role in a Motion Picture
• 1996 - Los Angeles Film Critics Association - Best Supporting Actor
• 1996 - National Board of Review - Best Supporting Actor
• 1996 - National Society of Film Critics - Best Supporting Actor (Runner-up)

Warning:  This product is intended for mature audiences only. It may contain violence, sexual content, drug abuse and/or strong language. You must be 17 or older to purchase it. By ordering this item you are certifying that you are at least 17 years of age.

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