
Runaway Jury
dir. Gary Fleder
67
8 sourcesSynopsis
After a workplace shooting in New Orleans, a trial against the gun manufacturer pits lawyer Wendell Rohr against shady jury consultant Rankin Fitch, who uses illegal means to stack the jury with people sympathetic to the defense. But when juror Nicholas Easter and his girlfriend Marlee reveal their ability to sway the jury into delivering any verdict they want, a high-stakes cat-and-mouse game begins.
Critics consensus
An implausible but entertaining legal thriller.
What resonated with audiences
'Runaway Jury' is a courtroom thriller featuring a strong cast including Gene Hackman, Dustin Hoffman, John Cusack, and Rachel Weisz. Themes of jury tampering, corporate influence, and ethical dilemmas are prominent. Hackman and Weisz receive praise for their performances. However, the film faces criticism for deviating from John Grisham's novel, particularly the change from a tobacco to a gun control lawsuit. Some find the plot convoluted and unrealistic, though it is generally considered entertaining despite its flaws.

Directed byGary Fleder
StarringJohn Cusack, Gene Hackman, Dustin Hoffman, Rachel Weisz, Bruce Davison, Bruce McGill
Written byBrian Koppelman, David Levien, Rick Cleveland
CinematographyRobert Elswit
EditingWilliam Steinkamp
MusicChristopher Young
Runaway Jury
2003 · PG-13 · 2h 7m
Drama, Thriller
After a workplace shooting in New Orleans, a trial against the gun manufacturer pits lawyer Wendell Rohr against shady jury consultant Rankin Fitch, who uses illegal means to stack the jury with people sympathetic to the defense. But when juror Nicholas Easter and his girlfriend Marlee reveal their ability to sway the jury into delivering any verdict they want, a high-stakes cat-and-mouse game begins.
Our Verdict
67
What resonated with audiences
'Runaway Jury' is a courtroom thriller featuring a strong cast including Gene Hackman, Dustin Hoffman, John Cusack, and Rachel Weisz. Themes of jury tampering, corporate influence, and ethical dilemmas are prominent. Hackman and Weisz receive praise for their performances. However, the film faces criticism for deviating from John Grisham's novel, particularly the change from a tobacco to a gun control lawsuit. Some find the plot convoluted and unrealistic, though it is generally considered entertaining despite its flaws.
Critics Consensus
An implausible but entertaining legal thriller.
