Knife's Edge

Rating: 10/10 (12 May 2020)

Visual poetry from beginning to end, from a knife fixed to the table giving the impression of standing precariously on its edge, to the rings of sweat on our characters that grow larger with the tension. This innovative courtroom drama not only gives you the fascinating crime solving aspect, but includes thought provoking discussions of society and our places in it. This 60 year old film brings up still relevant issues; classism, toxic masculinity, prejudice against immigrants, etc. It leaves us confronted with our tendency to choose violence and judgment over mercy and empathy. The vision of Lumet combined with Rose's writing creates a marriage of a perfect piece of theater that withstands the test of time.