The Verdict

How this film uses it

The trial plays like a stage fight. Galvin's nurse witness gets a key fact into the room, and then the judge rules her testimony out. The rules decide the outcome as much as the truth does.

Where to see it

Nurse Costello's testimony: She says she was pressured to change an admitting form from 1 to 9 and brought a photocopy. Judge Hoyle later strikes her testimony from the record.

How this film uses it

Galvin loses almost every battle before the end. By the time he gives his closing argument, you have seen enough to feel it matters. The jury's answer lands as a release.

Where to see it

The closing argument: Despite feeling his case is hopeless, Galvin gives an impassioned closing. The jury finds for the plaintiffs and asks whether it can award more than was sought.

How this film uses it

Galvin begins with an easy payday. After seeing Deborah Kaye, he turns down the $210,000 offer. The goal shifts from getting paid to getting something right, and winning starts to mean something else.

Where to see it

The refused settlement: After seeing the comatose Deborah, Galvin declines the diocese's $210,000 offer, stunning the defendants and the judge.

How this film uses it

Galvin is an alcoholic who chases ambulances, and the film starts from his shame. What he does next reads as an attempt at repair.

Where to see it

Morrissey's favor: Galvin's former partner Mickey Morrissey sends him a malpractice case he is almost certain to settle.

How this film uses it

The film ends on a phone ringing. Laura calls from her drink while Galvin sits with his coffee, and he lets it ring. The last sound is a choice not to answer.

Where to see it

The last scene: Laura, drunk, dials Galvin's office number. He moves to answer, changes his mind and lets the phone ring.