The Verdict
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The Verdict is a 1982 film which tells the story of a down-on-his-luck lawyer who pushes a medical malpractice case in order to improve his own situation, but discovers along the way that he is actually doing the right thing. It stars Paul Newman, Charlotte Rampling, Jack Warden, James Mason, Milo O'Shea and Lindsay Crouse.
The movie was adapted by David Mamet from the novel by Barry Reed. It was directed by Sidney Lumet.
It was nominated for Academy Awards for Best Actor in a Leading Role (Paul Newman), Best Actor in a Supporting Role (James Mason), Best Director, Best Picture and Best Writing, Screenplay Based on Material from Another Medium.
Robert Redford was originally to direct this film, but he was uncomfortable with the script. After several rewrites, he decided that he did not like the story and backed out. Sidney Lumet came on board and chose the original script as the one he would direct.
Bruce Willis has an uncredited background appearance as an extra, in one of his first film projects.