Trial by Jury MPAA Rating: R Entertainment: +3 Content: -3

A chilling tale of the evil manipulation of a juror, TRIAL BY JURY epitomizes the power of organized crime. Ruthless mob leader, Rusty Pirone (Armand Assante), is about to be convicted for master-minding countless criminal activities, including murder. New York District Attorney Daniel Graham (Gabriel Byrne) believes that justice will finally be served as the jury retires to the jury room. The mob is not about to let Pirone go to jail, however, and realize their only hope is a hung jury. Of the 12 jurors, Valerie Olston (Joanne Whalley-Kilmer), a bright young single mother appears to be their best chance. Tommy Visey (William Hurt), an ex-cop now working for Pirone, warns Valerie that unless she holds out for an acquittal, her young son will be killed. Valerie's life becomes a nightmare as the mob closes in on her, terrorizing her at every opportunity. Visey promises to keep her safe if she follows his instructions. Pirone himself confronts her, turning on his charm in an attempt to seduce her. Eventually Graham figures out what is happening, and he too tries to win over the juror-turned-mob-pawn. Those who enjoy suspenseful drama will find TRIAL BY JURY fascinating.

Evil stars in this film, permeating every scene as organized crime obstructs justice by manipulating the trial. Cold-blooded killings of police guards, beatings, stabbings are everyday occurrences. Tommy tells Valerie it's not a matter of who will be killed, but when they will be killed. The gentle, conscientious Valerie progresses/digresses into a hardened, tough woman determined to do whatever it takes to protect her life and her son's. It is disturbing when she resorts to plotting a cold-blooded killing as a solution to her problems. Along with graphic, bloody violence comes an abundance of obscenities and profanity. There is no sexual intercourse on-screen, but it is implied once as Pirone forces himself on Valerie. The usual low-life prostitutes, drug addicts and heavy drinkers hang out at mob headquarters. The intense, frequent violence, foul language and sex make TRIAL BY JURY very trying.

Preview Reviewer: Mary Draughon
Distributor: Warner Brothers, 4000 Warner Blvd., Burbank, CA 91522