Quite possibly a perfect film of American life

Rating: 10/10 (13 February 2005)

I'd seen this film as a child, but even though I went to law school where you'd think I'd be required to watch it many times over, I had not gotten around to it until today. In terms of filmic technique, it's simplicity itself, not showy in any way. But it also evokes every deep felt feeling and emotion with a cool beauty that brings tears to my eyes. The portrait of life in Depression-era South is painstakingly wrought, from the subtle generosity of inviting a poor child to dinner to the childhood mythology of the "crazy" neighbor to, finally, the finest trial summation ever presented in a courtroom drama, period. It's suspenseful, heartbreaking and comforting all at once. This is a true treasure of American culture.