Pacino in his prime

And Justice for All is the quintessential 70's movie. It's gritty, real, over the top, and truly unforgettable. In a decade of outstanding movies with acting giants like Deniro, Redford, Newman, Eastwood, Hackman, Hoffman and many other terrific actors, Al Pacino may have ruled the decade with his roles in the Godfather, Dog Day Afternoon and this little gem that may have slipped through the cracks.

Pacino plays the young lawyer Arthur Kirkland who is struggling within the legal system trying to stay true to himself and his truly moral compass which is like swimming upstream. He is coerced into defending a scumbag judge accused of rape, played brilliantly by John Forsythe. Along the way we see suicidal judges, attorneys on the brink of madness, and victims of a legal system that is callous and unjust. Arthur soon discovers the judge is guilty of a sick and violent assault on a young woman and in the movies final scene he bravely throws aside his career and uncovers the judge as a sadist to a stunned judge, jury and spectators.

The supporting cast is terrific with Jack Warden playing the loony, suicidal judge. Christine Lahti in her role as Arthur's girlfriend brings passion and emotion with the conflict of their relationship. Jeffrey Tambor and Craig T Nelson round out the stellar ensemble cast.

Watching the final scene unfold is riveting and rewarding as Pacino tears apart the role as only he can. He immerses himself into the role so completely that you can't help but cheer the results and marvel at his passion.

Rent the movie. You won't be disappointed.