Synopsis
What is 12 Angry Men about?
Plot Outline
An eighteen-year-old Latino is accused of having stabbed his father to death. He is presented in a courtroom before a twelve-man jury. Eleven out of the twelve men vote guilty, except for Mr. Davis.
Key Facts
- Director: Sidney Lumet
- Screenplay by: Reginald Rose
- Adapted from: "Twelve Angry Men" Teleplay by Reginald Rose
Screenwriter Reginald Rose was inspired to create a drama focusing on a jury after his experience as a jury member in a case of manslaughter.
This film is commonly used in business schools and workshops to illustrate team dynamics and conflict resolution techniques.
Reginald Rose's television play script was left virtually intact in its adaptation to feature film.
FAQ
Frequently asked questions about 12 Angry Men
A high angle shot positions the camera (and therefore the audience) literally and figuratively above the subject.
A high angle shot positions the camera (and therefore the audience) literally and figuratively above the subject.
A high angle shot can convey a range of meanings depending on the context of the scene. If a character is feeling inferior or vulnerable, or if they are beaming with happiness, a high angle shot can help accentuate those characteristics and emotions.
Since the camera informs the audience's perspective, and the camera is positioned above the subject, the overall effect tends to put the subject at a disadvantage, or to make them seem less powerful.
On the other hand, if a character is looking up at something with awe and wonder, we still might consider them to be smaller or less powerful but in a more positive connotation.
Since the camera informs the audience's perspective, and the camera is positioned above the subject, the overall effect tends to put the subject at a disadvantage, or to make them seem less powerful.
On the other hand, if a character is looking up at something with awe and wonder, we still might consider them to be smaller or less powerful but in a more positive connotation.
Scene Excerpt
A notable scene from the script
In the scene below, the Wachowskis included many purposeful high angle shots. Click the shot list below, to see the full scene broken down, and ask yourself what each high angle shot communicates to a viewer.
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