Julia Roberts stars as law student Darby Shaw in the thrilling 1993 film The Pelican Brief, directed by Alan J. Pakula. Alongside Denzel Washington as journalist Gray Grantham, they investigate the murders of two Supreme Court justices, leading to a high-stakes political scandal. Based on John Grisham’s bestseller, the film features a strong supporting cast and is celebrated as one of Pakula’s notable works. With a rating of 3.3 out of 5 on AlloCiné, it’s a must-see thriller.
Julia Roberts and Denzel Washington in The Pelican Brief
Just three years after her iconic role as Vivian Ward in the beloved romantic comedy Pretty Woman, Julia Roberts took a significant turn in her career by stepping into the shoes of a determined law student in the gripping thriller The Pelican Brief. This film, directed by Alan J. Pakula, features the talented Denzel Washington playing a journalist who aids the young protagonist in cracking a complex criminal case. At the time, both actors were at the pinnacle of their careers, making this collaboration even more exciting for audiences.
The Intriguing Plot of The Pelican Brief
Premiering in theaters in 1993, The Pelican Brief unveils a mysterious plot surrounding the suspicious murders of two Supreme Court justices. With federal agencies such as the CIA and FBI stumped, the resourceful Darby Shaw, played by Roberts, teams up with her law professor to compile a revealing dossier. Meanwhile, journalist Gray Grantham, portrayed by Washington, conducts his own investigation, which causes quite a stir in the White House, leading to the case being dubbed ‘The Pelican Brief’.
Alongside Roberts and Washington, the film boasts a strong ensemble cast featuring notable American actors like Sam Shepard, John Heard, William Atherton, Tony Goldwyn, Stanley Tucci, and John Lithgow, adding depth to this thrilling narrative.
The Pelican Brief is an adaptation of the bestselling novel by John Grisham, published in 1992. Following the immense success of the book, director Alan J. Pakula, renowned for his work on All the President’s Men, took on this project, marking one of his final films before his untimely passing in 1998. Many fans and critics alike regard The Pelican Brief as one of Pakula’s standout pieces.
With a viewer rating of 3.3 out of 5 on AlloCiné, The Pelican Brief is a highly recommended thriller that captivates audiences with its intricate plot and stellar performances. Don’t miss your chance to experience this classic film tonight on Arte at 9:00 PM!