The Verdict

25: Frank (Paul Newman) takes photos of his patient who lies in a vegetative state in a hospital bed; we see the photos fully develop. Frank's expression becomes more tense, we can tell seeing his client in such a sad state has made an impact. The movie is about Frank slowly emerging from alcoholism and failure as an attorney. A nurse walks in and tells him to leave. He stays, saying "I'm her attorney." His eyes reveal a renewal in Paul's sense of purpose. In the next scene when Paul refuses a 210k settlement we know why. The birth of something new.

45: In judge's chambers Paul declines the 210k settlement check again and is aware that once Concannon (James Mason) exits the offer of 210k is withdrawn. The judge tries to convince Paul to take the money but he refuses. The judge and lawyers are aware they are going to court. Now that I'm aware.

60: Paul tries to stop the matter from going to trial and asks for the 210k but is refused. He starts to drink again and gets his friend Mickey to help him find another expert witness. There's no going back now.

-45: Dr. Thompson is on the stand and though the judge would like to call it a day Frank refuses and starts his questioning. The judge interferes and acts in a hostile manner, saying "The doctors were not negligent." Paul discovers the judge is against him. Discovery.

-25: Mickey finds the check in Laura's purse; he knows Concannon is paying Laura to betray Paul. The next scene is at the playground where Paul visits the key witness who will turn the tide in his client's favor. The final turning point.