There's several points where Wigand is in real danger, and any sensible person would cut their losses and give in. Wigand never does. That this shy, twitchy rodent of a man should be so unflinchingly principled is why this is a uniquely stirring ride - it's neither a tirade, really, against the tobacco industry nor a hymn to free speech, but a taste of what it would be like to toss pragmatism aside and go for the jugular. There's plenty of sensitive, considered pieces of acting, although none to match Crowe's. Michael Mann is surely now rooted in the premier league.
Films can still change the world, y'know.