Martin Vail
Richard Gere
Martin Vail
Primal Fear
“Sooner or later, a man who wears two faces forgets which one is real.”
7.7
1996
2h 10m
CrimeDramaMysteryThriller
Director: Gregory Hoblit
Overview
Defense attorney Martin Vail takes on jobs for money and prestige rather than any sense of the greater good. His latest case involves an altar boy, accused of brutally murdering the archbishop of Chicago. Vail finds himself up against his ex-pupil and ex-lover, but as the case progresses and the Church's dark secrets are revealed, Vail finds that what appeared a simple case takes on a darker, more dangerous aspect.
Trailer
Primal Fear (1996) Original Trailer [FHD]
Cast
Janet Venable
Laura Linney
Janet Venable
Aaron/Roy Stampler
Edward Norton
Aaron/Roy Stampler
Shaughnessy
John Mahoney
Shaughnessy
Shoat
Alfre Woodard
Shoat
Molly
Frances McDormand
Molly
Yancy
Terry O'Quinn
Yancy
Goodman
Andre Braugher
Goodman
Pinero
Steven Bauer
Pinero
Stenner
Joe Spano
Stenner
Martinez
Tony Plana
Martinez
Rushman
Stanley Anderson
Rushman
Reviews
CinemaSerf
I was never the greatest fan of Richard Gere, but this is certainly one of his better performances. He is cocky lawyer "Vail", adept at ensuring his criminal fraternity clients evade justice. When the shocking news that an archbishop has been savagely murdered is announced, he decides on a bit of pro-bono work to defend the young "Aaron" (Ed Norton) against the prosecuting skills of his ex-girlfriend "Janet" (Laura Linney). As the courtroom drama unfolds, though, we soon establish that there are undertones that call into question not just who did what to whom, but also the integrity of the victim and of many of his well-connected associates. The film belongs to Norton, though. As his character develops, with the assistance of probing psychologist "Molly" (Frances McDormand), we discover that there are quirks to his character that this actor delivers superbly. So much falls into place in the last ten minutes, or so, before a denouement that is both unexpected and perversely quite fitting. It is a bit too long, and takes maybe half an hour before it starts to simmer; but once the plot starts to advance in earnest, this becomes a superior crime thriller with twists, turns and strong performances throughout.
Read full reviewRalphRahal
Primal Fear is a masterclass in tension, turning a courtroom drama into a high-stakes thriller under Gregory Hoblit’s sharp direction. Then there’s Edward Norton, in his very first role, who makes such an impression it’s no surprise he went on to win over 15 awards including a Golden Globe for Best Supporting Actor. Playing Aaron, a timid altar boy with hidden depths. Richard Gere holds his own as the slick defense lawyer, Norton’s layered acting and the intense chemistry between them make this movie unforgettable. Primal Fear goes beyond a typical courtroom drama, serving up suspense, stellar performances, and production.
Read full reviewJPV852
Solid enough court room crime drama featuring good performances all around but especially Edward Norton in his breakout role. Loved the music and score and found myself entertained by the twisted murder. I think it could've been better but still a good film. **3.5/5**
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