Whimsory used to make skit videos about a typical working class family and their friends/boyfriends. She played every role, and edited it all herself. It's why I sometimes call her "Pumpkin", because the youngest character was basically her as a little girl and was called "Pumpkin".
I wasnt born anywhere near 1950....and this is one of the best movies I have ever seen. That list is fine , dont listen to knucklehead trolls. This is a masterpiece of a movie.
The list is great if you look at it as an approximation and not set in stone. That’s how Whimsory is doing it, but the detractors want to argue specifics.
@@NemeanLion- I agree. In the top 100 maaaaaybe but certainly not 3. I hate to say it but it profits massively from the death of Heath Ledger. But it´s probably a natural and healthy reaction to it. Great movie though and Heath Leadger is phenomenal in it.
the irony of juror number 3 hating the kid because he compares him to how his own son, who he thinks doesn't respect his elders, When you remember that he himself started not respecting the old guy, Juror number 9 in the beginning of the film. Talking down to him so much that Juror number 6 literally steps in and says that he will lay him out if he talks to him in a disrespectful tone again. The writing in this film is utter genius, with so much being said that you can even notice things you've never noticed after seeing it dozens of times like I have.
Whimsory posts another great movie from the list she sometimes uses. I know that no matter how many times I’ve seen this, and how much I read by Ebert and others about its history, I know she’s gonna notice stuff I never saw, and her outro will teach me tons more stuff about it than I knew. Whimsory is the queen of movie channels.
When I first watched this movie I was in high school and my film studies teacher made us watch it. All my classmates didn’t want to watch it because it was old af, but in the first 15 minutes everybody’s eyes couldn’t leave the screen. If Gen Z kids who are used to watching crappy movies can watch this and enjoy it than it’s a good ass movie!
Some movies are called classics because you can find ways to relate to the characters even if the film is 20, 30, even 60 years old. The power of good direction, great acting, and damn good writing.
There is so much fantastic black and white cinema out there. The Third Man, Double Indemnity, The Treasure of the Sierra Madre, Some Like It Hot, The Maltese Falcon, Citizen Kane, Ikiru (To Live), Seven Samurai, The Seventh Seal, Modern Times, The Great Dictator, and so many more I can't think of right now. Luckily most of these are in the IMDb Top 250 list.
This is your best video yet. Also, I'm glad you noticed how bored the judge was at the very beginning of the film: it was important to set the scene for how literally nobody gave a shit about this kid.
Henry Fonda was the Tom Hanks of the 1940s - he was a highly acclaimed star who was known for playing these Everyman roles. He won an Academy Award, a BAFTA, and a Golden Globe for this film. And virtually all of the others were veteran character actors who had appeared in dozens of movies and TV shows of the period. The acting talent in that little room was incredible.
I am always really happy to see young people checking this one out for the first time...especially my favorite reactors. Sidney Lumet is one of the great directors of all time, and this is his first movie and also one of his best. Another movie by Lumet that I always recommend is Fail Safe from 1964...it also stars Henry Fonda. Other older movies that I suggest that were not made by Lumet are...To Kill a Mockingbird(1962), Inherit the Wind(1960), and Judgement at Nuremberg(1961)...all three are highly renowned courtroom dramas filmed in black and white.
And now you know why "12 Angry Men" is near the top of the IMDB list of best movies. I loved, loved, loved your post-watch analysis! You said something at the end about going on for far too long, but I enjoyed the entire thing. Thanks! The movie was set in New York City. They never said what despised group the defendant was a member of, but he was probably Puerto Rican. A lot of Puerto Ricans live in New York, and there has always been prejudice against them. Sidney Lumet began the movie using camera angles above the jurors' heads, and slowly moved it downwards. He also used more close-ups as the movie went on. The result was an increasing feeling of being in a small space. Juror 8 (the first one to vote not guilty) was played by Henry Fonda, father of Jane and Peter Fonda, and grandfather of Bridget Fonda. He was in many well-regarded films, including "The Grapes of Wrath" and "Once Upon a Time in the West." Juror 10 (the bigot) was played by Ed Begley, father of Ed Begley, Jr., whom you may have seen in "Young Sheldon," "Better Call Saul," and "Arrested Development." I don't think it was just luck on Sidney Lumet's part that he directed such a fine film. He went on to direct many other great movies, including "The Pawnbroker," "Fail Safe," "Serpico," "Murder on the Orient Express," "Dog Day Afternoon," "Network," "The Verdict," and "Before the Devil Knows You're Dead." "Dog Day Afternoon" is a favorite of mine. I'd love for you to react to it. Did you notice that Juror 10 (the bigot) didn't speak a word after Juror 4 (the cool-headed juror) told him not to open his mouth again. Even when casting his final vote, he did it by shaking his head. One thing I like about this movie is how the different characters bring their own experience and perspectives into the jury room with them. The old man understood why another old man would testify the way he did. The guy who lived in a slum knew about how switchblades were used in actual fights. The smallest juror who brought up the question of the kid stabbing downward while being so much shorter than his father. Thanks!
Dog Day Afternoon is a favorite of mine, too. I've seen others react to it and it's still just as good to modern audiences. The Seventies were a great time for American cinema.
There is really no better film to watch people react to. It's just so solid and surprising, and it holds up today and probably will for another 70 years. Thanks for doing it!
I love how Juror number 4 says he never sweats, but then he starts sweating when he gets asked about him and his wife going to the movies and can't say who was staring in the second feature.
"Don't you ever sweat?" "No." LOL, the funniest line from the show. I've seen E. G. Marshall in probably 20 movies and TV shows and he always plays this same character. Love seeing him.
Hello W. You've mentioned more than once that The Lord of the Rings is your favorite. I realize that you have already seen them, but would you consider reacting to a second viewing of the trilogy? You have great insight and a unique perspective. I think a second viewing would be entertaining. Thanks for considering. (BTW... Theatrical Version please) ~Don
No CGI, no blazing gun battles, no hand to hand combat, no cheesy one liners, no multiple location shots. Just 12 men in one room deciding the fate of a young man. Some of the best writing in a movie.
Also worth considering that 12 Angry Men is basically a play. And yes, I'm aware that the screenwriter did also adapt the script as a play, but that's not my point. The film could easily be made as a play with very little change.
@@cmlemmus494 Agree. Some of my favorite movies started as plays, such as _Doubt, A Few Good Men_ . I'm here for intelligent dialog, and that's what a play has.
From Juror #3's position, this trial is a representation of who is 'Guilty' in he and his son's current estrangement. He is desperate to place the Guilt on his son, but by the end he has to accept that he is the Guilty one.
I believe the reason why, when juror #9 is speaking, the camera goes to a closeup, increasingly so as the movie progresses, is because it has been established, by the statements of the others as well as his identification with the old man on the witness stand, that most people don't care what he has to say. The closeups underscore the fact that he does indeed have some important things to say.
I think Juror Number 4 is my favorite character in this movie. The way he always seems vaguely disgusted to be on the same side as 3 and 10 is a nice addition to his performance, and adds so many layers to what could have been a flat, straightforward role.
This is one of the best movies ever made and I'm so glad you did a reaction to it as I love when people do. It is a classic example of how all you need is good writing and cast to make a perfectly compelling movie, that even though it's in black and white can still grip audiences to this day whilst covering such important topics like discrimination and racial prejudice. I LOVE THIS FILM + You Whimsory for covering it, keep up the great work cutie!
"Why do I feel bad for him?" Because he gave an amazing performance and it was a perfect twist that reinterpreted every thing Juror #3 had said up to that moment.
"Them" means Puerto Ricans. At that time there was a lot of tension around the influx of Puerto Ricans moving to New York City. Another movie that touched on these tensions was WEST SIDE STORY.
It was pretty genius actually to leave it non specific. That junior could be any American who holds a prejudice. Like believing a whole group of people are eating cats and dogs. . .it could be anyone at any point in our history.
Whimsory, I frequently lament the lack of frequency of your videos, and I hope you recognize that as an appreciation of the fine quality of your reactions and commentary. Did you realize that over 50% of this video is your commentary? To get your audience to stick around through that, you have to have demonstrated time and again that hearing your take on it is worth it. It’s also rewarding to see you recognize actors you’ve seen in other films, and I’ll be watching in your future reactions to hear you say, ‘Hey, he was in 12 Angry Men!’. This reaction was thoughtful, well-researched, smart, funny, and above all enjoyable. Thank you for what you do.
Hi Whimsory, about Juror #9, I think those intense close ups were used because he is the most self - revelatory of all the jurors. When the camera goes close on him it shows the deep self reflection he has undergone and is about to reveal to everyone . The scene where he sizes up the old man witness, the juror is in the exact same circumstance. He is ignored, written off, taken for granted. He also has not been singled out for recognition. He understands why the old witness would seek attention by creating a scenario that everyone wants to hear. He has been tempted to do it himself. The only other juror who is as self revelatory is the Lee J. Cobb character. But that builds up throughout, and then he explodes at the end.
I’ve probably said this before, but I’ll say it again - this is the smartest film review channel on the internet. And (in character of Lee J Cobb) nothing anybody says is going to change my mind about that! 🙂
One of the best movies ever made, an American civics lesson, a seminar in conflict resolution, and on and on…. Thank you as ever for a great review and brining some of the greatest movies, old and new, to a younger audience. I also suggest Maltese Falcon.
You're a national treasure, Whimsory. Thank you for your sense of humor and also for being the charter member of your generation's Martin Balsam Fan Club. I imagine you would be the perfect audience for great directors because you pick up on all the subtleties, humane moments, and deeper themes of these excellent films. Just keep going!
I wached this in 2005 when I was 17 and it became my favorite film of all time. People always assume that I'm an "art film guy" for suggesting it, but the WHOLE POINT of suggesting and old movie is because it has stood the test of time. Do people seriously think that every single piece of classical music is still played today? nope, most of it was forgotten.
Not sure how old you are, but if you are 25 or younger, you are wise beyond your years and very enchanting to watch and listen to. Way to go, your synopsis was fantastic!!!
Thanks, Whimsory! ⚖ I knew you'd love this one! The writer, as you noted, was Reginald Rose; the director was Sidney Lumet. Rose also wrote Season 4 Episode 15 of THE TWILIGHT ZONE entitled "The Wonderful World of Horace Ford" (1963). Lumet did one of my all-time favorites, a mystery/comedy/drama DEATHTRAP (1982), which I highly recommend.
oh yea she def will love Death trap and the nice twists and then the GREAT ending. THe Play on broadway lasted over 1700 performances, and she would really love it
Sidney Lumet has an incredible body of work. This film, Network, Dog Day Afternoon, Fail Safe, Serpico, The Verdict, the list goes on. Also, he wrote a book titled "Making Movies" that I would recommend to anyone that is interested in films.
_Twelve Angry Men_ was originally made for television in 1954 as part of the “Westinghouse Studio One” anthology series. Joseph Sweeney, juror 9, the old man, is the only actor from the tv version to appear in the film. The full version is available on RUclips.
Juror #11, the watchmaker, is the same actor too. I have The Criterion Collection copy of this, and the original “Studio One” episode is a bonus on the blu-ray.
Whimsory! If you want another profound and entertaining film from long ago, check out "Guess Who's Coming to Dinner" (1967). A magnificent comedy-drama about upper class parents, their daughter and her surprise engagement to an African American man. Elite level cast: Spencer Tracy, Katherine Hepburn and Sidney Poitier Lots of laughs and moving, profound monologues. 👍👍 Sidney Poitier has the greatest film monologue that I have ever seen.
NOT ALOT OF DEMAND!?!? This might be one of the greatest cinematic master pieces of all time! It's amazing, and its done soooo well. It's why none of the remakes ever hit nearly as hard!
I really appreciate your reactions, Whimsory. It’s very different from the other channels I watch, and I’m very impressed with how much work, time, and effort you put into your videos. I can’t imagine how long it takes you to do everything that you do just to put out one movie reaction like you do, especially with the things you have to do in your personal life as well. I just wanted to say that I admire all of the things you do to make your content for each video, and I hope you continue to do these very well edited, very thorough, very thought out and extremely informative reactions.
btw, pay no mind when people are extra rude to whatever reason. I'm talking about the people being rude with you about the list, but that applies to anything, just ignore them and do your thing. And yes, that list is as good as anything when it comes to subjectivity, so just go with it.
The IMDb list is a fine starting point. You just need to understand that their system is based on a weighted average of regular IMDb voters. The demographics of this group are not representative of the entire population. IMDb used to give the gender and age breakdown of the voters. Now, the only breakdown is by country. The other info may be available from IMDBPro. When the info was available, you could see the majority of the voters were young men. That's why you don't see many chick flicks in the top 250, and movies that appeal to young men may seem overrepresented and rated higher than they should be.
Thank goodness for the algorithm leading me here because this was a phenomenal reaction. On top of that the outro was in-depth, well thought out, and quite interesting. This is one of those movies that stays with you after you watch it. The acting and writing were both top tier. It essentially takes place in a single room, with long drawn out shots, and the actors fire off their lines one after the other and it sounds organic. It doesn't sound like they're regurgitating lines and this movie would be completely different if you take a single one of them away. Subscribing was a no-brainer after watching this. I'd also recommend "To Kill a Mockingbird" after having seen this. I feel it goes really well with this movie. Great job and I can't wait to see what's next in store.
This must be the most lucid, concise and insightful analysis of the individual characters I've ever heard. Good for you! These actors were some of the best of the best for their time. For all time, Jack Klugman, who was the juror who grew up in the slum, did three wonderful episodes of "The Twilight Zone" (and one mediocre one). His dramatic performances were as good as it gets. John Fiedler did a scary episode of Star Trek TOS. On the other hand, I recommend the film that Bob Gale and Bob Zemeckis did while they were writing "Back to the Future", the hilarious "Used Cars". In it we see what happens between Kurt Russell and Jack Warden (juror #7) are told by the director that they can swear as much as they want.
Hi Whimsory, it's always a good day when you post a reaction, you have a real comedic talent and are so likeable. Like all good art it doesn't matter when it was created and this film is a gem. You are really switching it up with these reactions, including extra content in your outros is very creative and fun.
So good, one of the best ever made, all the way back in 1957, but doesn't get mentioned or watched anywhere near as much as the others at the top of the list. Under valued
@@YvesFey when people watch it, it seems to have a really positive impact on most people. But I think hardly any people have heard of it or know much about it, especially compared to the other films high on the imdb list. Shawshank, Godfather, Dark Knight, Lord of the Rings, Schindlers List, Pulp Fiction, etc. - most people have a level of awareness of these, which 12 Angry Men doesn't have
Juror #10 (the THOSE people guy) is payed by Ed Begley Sr. who won the academy award for "Sweet Bird of Youth" where he played a crooked politician, but by all accounts he was a wonderful character actor that people loved to work with, and the same is said of his son Ed Begley Jr. who's been in tons of stuff over the years and is also a wonderful character actor.
"There isnt much demand for this movie". *I* am demanding this movie lol. I took criminal justice in college and two movies came up in classes. This and My Cousin Vinnie. Since you're open to older movies, I'll one up 1957 and recommend a silent movie called Metropolis from 1927. It was the basis for a whole genre of fiction called cyberpunk. It directly inspired movies like Blade Runner from 1982 (highly recommend that too). Metropolis may have no voice lines, but man it doesn't need it to be a great movie
This movie is a perfect movie. People always say citizen kane is the non plus ultra, but there are so many pacing issues in that one. 12 angry men…nothing can be taken out, nothing can be added, acting, score, camera work, everything is spot on. Doesn’t have to be anyones favourite film, but it sure is flawless
As a guitarist, I can draw a comparison between Citizen Kane and Jimi Hendrix. They both redefined their respective art forms so profoundly that in their time contextually it’s hard not to call them the greatest, but compared to everything that followed they can be considered less impressive, however blasphemous some may consider it to point out any weaknesses.
@@stevesheroan4131 nice comparison indeed. I mean, Citizen Kane did heaps and loads for visual effects and camera techniques and in that regard is still a masterpiece. But pacing wise...
You are as entertaining as any reactor on the internet. Plus your in depth analysis is first rate. I would point out that you have 17k views on this one. So there is definitely an audience for classic movie reviews.
Such a well written, acted and directed film that is an icon. The director also did, “The Verdict” later with Paul Newman and Jack Warden that is also excellent. Another excellent commentary Whim.
this is one of the very few movies, that no matter when I click into it, beginning, middle or near the end, I will watch it to the end, for a movie shot almost entirely one room it's astounding, don't listen to the knuckle draggers that dis your list...great awards rofl
Juror 3 is a hidden tragedy. Early on in the movie, he mentions that he sat on MANY JURIES BEFORE. By the end of the movie, we see that he sees himself as an executioner, and it's only reasonable to assume that the other juries he sat on didn't have their own Henry Fonda. There's no way to know for sure, but there's a high probability that he showed the same amount of personal bias on the other cases too. It's possible that he has blood on his hands. And that's what he puts together when he rips the picture of his son.
George C Scott crushes it as the bigoted #3. The way he focuses his anger on the external, the 'other', instead of dealing with his own life is so well written and Scott's simmering anger is brilliantly performed until he boils over and shows his true face before giving in to "Not guilty..." I still don't think he believes it, but can't argue with the facts Fonda is holding over him.
I love this movie for so many reasons but I have a special place in my heart for movies where the entire film takes place in one room. To be able to pull that off and be this captivating is something special.
This is one of your longer outros, and I'm happy for it. Most of us have seen these films and have our thoughts. We watch to see yours. You obviously did a lot of post work and didn't just wing it...keep up the great work.
I first saw this on late night TV as a teenager and I recognized most of the actors as being Top Shelf. It was fabulous then and still kicks 😍 great reaction as usual ❤ and the scene with jury number 3 changing his vote was so powerful 😢
Sidney Lumet's first theatrical movie directing job. He had previously only done TV directing. What an entrance. And the cinematographer, Boris Kaufman, had already won an Oscar for his work filming On the Waterfront.
The great thing about this movie is it shows that a bunch of people can be witness to something but because of personal backgrounds, they see things others don't. The use of the switchblade - the indents from the eyeglasses, etc
First, as usual I enjoyed your reaction. Second, nearly everybody on YT reacts to this movie, so seriously, no need to apologize. It's a classic and deservedly so. Even if you didn't react to it on your channel, it's worth watching. Third, big shout-out to those classic actors who honed their skills on stage. They were craftsmen of the highest order and it shows in this three-room set.
Great reaction! This is one of the greatest films ever. Incredible script and performances. But the fact that it was shot in basically one room, with cleverly positioned camera angles, the simplicity is genius. Notice how we start with wider shots from above and away from the characters, and as the tension grows there are more close-ups and shots from below face level. 12 Angry Men is a masterpiece.
This is my favorite movie. It's an absolute masterclass of acting, screenwriting, pacing, blocking and every component of cinema. Jury number 4 is my favorite character. Although he's technically an antagonist, he's also one of the most level headed and reasonably people in the room. He isn't voting guilty because of prejudices (unlike all of the other final holdouts), but because he genuinely believes that the correct decision based on the facts. He makes arguments to support his position, and he responds to the arguments of others and directly addresses their points (he's also visible irritated by the bluster of Juror 3 and others, even though they're "on his side"). Sometimes, after Fonda's character makes a good argument, you can see Juror number 4 sitting quietly and having a good, long think about it. Fonda's character seems to pick up on it too. As the movie goes on, he increasingly direct his arguments directly towards Juror 4; perhaps realizing that he's the most reasonable party in the opposition and their most skilled debater. And, when he's convinced, he changes his mind. He's the most honest person in the room. He also looks kinda like my dad, which may be part of why I like him.
I remember watching this movie on Turner Classic Movies, and from the first scene I was struck by the cinematography, and then hooked on the plot driven largely by the character's dialogue & the performances. It's since remained my idea of a perfect movie, the verifiable 10/10 by which every other film I watch may be judged in terms of quality. A truly wonderful little piece of art, this is, and I'm always happy to see other people discover it.
Glad you enjoyed that so much Whimsory. I had a hunch you would be fascinated by this one. You've got a natural knack for insightful observation, and these characters provide LOADS of opportunity for that. Great analysis. Always impressed! 👍😁
One of the greatest movies of all time, and your review was fantastic, as always. You forgot to rate one major character though. The Weather. There are a few gems from this time period and beyond. Worth looking into. Johnny got his gun 1971 is a film that comes to mind, at the top of my head.
So, I think that Henry Fonda, arguably by far the biggest name in this movie at the time, took scale to help get this movie made, he loved the script so much. As far as the age of the film, it is worth remembering that as we move further ahead in time the things that last, tend to be the good things. There were movies that came out the same year that were forgotten and are lost. This one people see and love 70 years later. Amazing.
The imdb list isn't perfect, but as a guide to give you ideas, I think it works well. Also I appreciate how you combine thoughtful, smart, analysis with goofy humor.
Great reaction. It's always fun to see people wondering why this unprepossessing old B&W film is so incredibly highly rated among other more obvious highly rated films, but you can show it to literally anyone and within the first 2 minutes they're engrossed, and by the end of the film they're completely invested in every single character and hanging on every line of dialogue. Another similarly claustrophobically intense film by the same director, Sidney Lumet, is Dog Day Afternoon, about a real-life bank robbery gone wrong. It also has you 100% in the moment with a transformed attachment to the characters from when the film started, and again it's to all intents and purposes a single-room drama carried entirely by the writing, acting, and cinematography. Well worth a watch (or even a react!)
I love 4 (Glasses Guy) during the racist tyrade scene. He's the only one who doesn't turn away, and _just_ when you think he won't... "I _have_ listened to you. Now sit down and _don't open your mouth again_ ." What a mic drop.
He's my favorite of all. He seems to be the only one who goes by facts and facts alone. Even that line was delivered calmly, with all his despise for the racist guy put into words, not tone. I think he said he works in finances, but I like to call him “the mathematician”.
Just recently watched this with my wife and 9 year old grandson, neither had watched it before. Even the 9 year old was glued to the screen. Said it was a really good movie. Your analysis is fantastic and amazing, great job. Movies like this prove that you can have a great drama without a lot of explosions, violence, graphic language, special effects or just any action at all.
Great reaction Whimsory! I feel you always do a really good job, but this outro was - to date - your magna opus! My theory to why juror #9 got the unique close ups is that because he is of an age demographic that separates him from the other jurors and most viewers. The closeness may make it easier for us to relate to this man without having shared the experiences of his decades. Maybe, by focusing on his face we can all see our future selves reflected? Basically, that's my theory - so we can better relate with a character in whose shoes we've not yet walked. Just a theory.
Brilliant film. Superb cast, great dialogue and fantastically directed. Glad you enjoyed it, Whimsory, it's a true classic. Another Martin Balsam film you might like to watch is The Bedford Incident from 1965 with Sidney Poitier and Richard Widmark.
One of my favorite films from the 1950's, such a great picture, so creative, so elegant, and I love that so many reactors have watched it recently...long overdue. A lot of my friends have never seen this film, so I'm so happy so many younger people are discovering it.
This is one of my favorite movies. One is the loneliest number that you'll ever do 🎶 I think I have seen this movie about 15 times, and I know I have seen at least five reactions to it. But I have never seen anyone break it down like you did. Great Job!
This is my favourite movie ever made. The 90s remake is pretty good too and I was lucky enough to see it on stage (the original form of the script) last year
If you want more Lee J Cobb, then you should check out "On the Waterfront" at some point. It has a young Marlon Brando. And I think you'll absolutely fall in love with Karl Malden -- a great actor and presence on screen.
Juror number 9 close up question: I am guessing, but I think that the reason they close up on his face is to almost call the audience out. The director is calling out the fact that we ignore the elderly, we often regard them with little seriousness, which was one of the points the movie was making via the discussion of the older witness wanting to be listened to. The close up is almost like forcing the audience to pay attention to #9.
Great reaction and analysis to a fantastic movie. Absolutely blew me away on first watch and never get tired of reactions to it. Love your quirkiness and ranking of the jurors - it really warms the heart when a younger person can appreciate a classic movie that's so old to them, kinda gives me some hope for the future.
I love that this young lady has patrons and can make her "silly little videos." The time and effort she puts into them is obvious and appreciated.
For me the best reaction channel there is and wasn't I so broke ...
Whimsory used to make skit videos about a typical working class family and their friends/boyfriends. She played every role, and edited it all herself. It's why I sometimes call her "Pumpkin", because the youngest character was basically her as a little girl and was called "Pumpkin".
Could not agree more 😊
@@PsychedelicChameleon Where is this hidden gem????!?
I wasnt born anywhere near 1950....and this is one of the best movies I have ever seen.
That list is fine , dont listen to knucklehead trolls.
This is a masterpiece of a movie.
1952 here, and I agree.
The film is a masterpiece but the rankings are a joke. The Dark Knight is the #3 greatest movie of all time? It’s a good film but come on.
The list is great if you look at it as an approximation and not set in stone. That’s how Whimsory is doing it, but the detractors want to argue specifics.
@@NemeanLion-that stuck out to me too. 😂
@@NemeanLion- I agree. In the top 100 maaaaaybe but certainly not 3. I hate to say it but it profits massively from the death of Heath Ledger. But it´s probably a natural and healthy reaction to it. Great movie though and Heath Leadger is phenomenal in it.
the irony of juror number 3 hating the kid because he compares him to how his own son, who he thinks doesn't respect his elders, When you remember that he himself started not respecting the old guy, Juror number 9 in the beginning of the film. Talking down to him so much that Juror number 6 literally steps in and says that he will lay him out if he talks to him in a disrespectful tone again. The writing in this film is utter genius, with so much being said that you can even notice things you've never noticed after seeing it dozens of times like I have.
Whimsory, by experiencing this great film, you have now reached a new level of Film Connoisseurship! 🏆🏆🏆
Never seen anyone have a crush on Martin Balsam as much as Whimsory 😂 How cute!
He's got a good "everyman" quality about him.
You'll find him in every movie such as Cape Fear, Psycho, Catch-22, Breakfast at Tiffany's, Murder on the Orient Express and All the President's Men.
Count me in on “Team Balsam” - great actor and has an off-beat sex appeal.
I'll add Twlight Zone to the list, he's the lead
Love that!!!! Nothing wrong with that; Martin Balsam is great!!
Whimsory posts another great movie from the list she sometimes uses. I know that no matter how many times I’ve seen this, and how much I read by Ebert and others about its history, I know she’s gonna notice stuff I never saw, and her outro will teach me tons more stuff about it than I knew.
Whimsory is the queen of movie channels.
yea and I know she likes to keep her privacy, but I'd like to hear her 1st name at least. Just for fun im gonna guess Susan or Linda
Yeah totally agreed ...
@@michaelceraso1977 First name Whim, last name Sory
Long live the queen!
When I first watched this movie I was in high school and my film studies teacher made us watch it. All my classmates didn’t want to watch it because it was old af, but in the first 15 minutes everybody’s eyes couldn’t leave the screen. If Gen Z kids who are used to watching crappy movies can watch this and enjoy it than it’s a good ass movie!
I started watching this film when I was 18 and I got so hooked on it!
Some movies are called classics because you can find ways to relate to the characters even if the film is 20, 30, even 60 years old. The power of good direction, great acting, and damn good writing.
"In the Heat of the Night", "To Kill a Mockingbird", "Night of the Hunter", "Casablanca"... all great, old movies you'd love!
There is so much fantastic black and white cinema out there. The Third Man, Double Indemnity, The Treasure of the Sierra Madre, Some Like It Hot, The Maltese Falcon, Citizen Kane, Ikiru (To Live), Seven Samurai, The Seventh Seal, Modern Times, The Great Dictator, and so many more I can't think of right now. Luckily most of these are in the IMDb Top 250 list.
On the Waterfront, Key Largo, It Happened One Night, and many more...
Sullivan s travels, his girl Friday, the awful truth
Brother Orchid, My Man Godfrey
The Apartment, The General (a Buster Keaton silent film), the 1947 Miracle on 34th Street...
This is your best video yet.
Also, I'm glad you noticed how bored the judge was at the very beginning of the film: it was important to set the scene for how literally nobody gave a shit about this kid.
Henry Fonda was the Tom Hanks of the 1940s - he was a highly acclaimed star who was known for playing these Everyman roles. He won an Academy Award, a BAFTA, and a Golden Globe for this film. And virtually all of the others were veteran character actors who had appeared in dozens of movies and TV shows of the period. The acting talent in that little room was incredible.
Has Hanks ever played someone as against type as Frank in Once Upon a Time in the West?
@@KithKanan64 took me a few seconds to connect the dots, him being such a good guy in this movie, but...omg was he a bad guy there...
@@KithKanan64Hanks is pretty far from his baseline in Road to Perdition, but his character is still pretty sympathetic.
@@KithKanan64 Yea Fonda's char killed a child in that movie! would never happen today!
@@KithKanan64 ... Hanks has played a jerk comedian in "Punchline" and a jerk advertising exec in "Nothing in Common" (with Jackie Gleason).
Whimsory, this is your best Outro ever. 👍👍
"The most seductive moment" 😂
You're a genius, Whimsory 😀
The spicy, sordid, past of Oscar Madison and/or Quincy, M.E. Scandalous! 🤣
“Quincy” would have loved to hear him be given the “most seductive” 😂
I am always really happy to see young people checking this one out for the first time...especially my favorite reactors.
Sidney Lumet is one of the great directors of all time, and this is his first movie and also one of his best. Another movie by Lumet that I always recommend is Fail Safe from 1964...it also stars Henry Fonda.
Other older movies that I suggest that were not made by Lumet are...To Kill a Mockingbird(1962), Inherit the Wind(1960), and Judgement at Nuremberg(1961)...all three are highly renowned courtroom dramas filmed in black and white.
you have my vote for "To Kill a Mockingbird" great film like this one
_Fail Safe_ was so good. And shocking.
The addition of the Tier List in the review section was unique and fun. Great reaction and commentary insights as always. Cheers!
and great research into 50's culture as well :)
And now you know why "12 Angry Men" is near the top of the IMDB list of best movies.
I loved, loved, loved your post-watch analysis! You said something at the end about going on for far too long, but I enjoyed the entire thing. Thanks!
The movie was set in New York City. They never said what despised group the defendant was a member of, but he was probably Puerto Rican. A lot of Puerto Ricans live in New York, and there has always been prejudice against them.
Sidney Lumet began the movie using camera angles above the jurors' heads, and slowly moved it downwards. He also used more close-ups as the movie went on. The result was an increasing feeling of being in a small space.
Juror 8 (the first one to vote not guilty) was played by Henry Fonda, father of Jane and Peter Fonda, and grandfather of Bridget Fonda. He was in many well-regarded films, including "The Grapes of Wrath" and "Once Upon a Time in the West."
Juror 10 (the bigot) was played by Ed Begley, father of Ed Begley, Jr., whom you may have seen in "Young Sheldon," "Better Call Saul," and "Arrested Development."
I don't think it was just luck on Sidney Lumet's part that he directed such a fine film. He went on to direct many other great movies, including "The Pawnbroker," "Fail Safe," "Serpico," "Murder on the Orient Express," "Dog Day Afternoon," "Network," "The Verdict," and "Before the Devil Knows You're Dead." "Dog Day Afternoon" is a favorite of mine. I'd love for you to react to it.
Did you notice that Juror 10 (the bigot) didn't speak a word after Juror 4 (the cool-headed juror) told him not to open his mouth again. Even when casting his final vote, he did it by shaking his head.
One thing I like about this movie is how the different characters bring their own experience and perspectives into the jury room with them. The old man understood why another old man would testify the way he did. The guy who lived in a slum knew about how switchblades were used in actual fights. The smallest juror who brought up the question of the kid stabbing downward while being so much shorter than his father.
Thanks!
Dog Day Afternoon is a favorite of mine, too. I've seen others react to it and it's still just as good to modern audiences. The Seventies were a great time for American cinema.
That list is pretty dumb tbh. Dark Knight top 3 all time? Yeah ok lmao maybe of it's decade at best
There is really no better film to watch people react to. It's just so solid and surprising, and it holds up today and probably will for another 70 years. Thanks for doing it!
I love how Juror number 4 says he never sweats, but then he starts sweating when he gets asked about him and his wife going to the movies and can't say who was staring in the second feature.
"Don't you ever sweat?" "No."
LOL, the funniest line from the show. I've seen E. G. Marshall in probably 20 movies and TV shows and he always plays this same character. Love seeing him.
Fun Fact: The director moved the walls of the set closer together as the film progressed to increase the tension in the room 🤯
I had never heard that before, but that’s pretty brilliant.
Hello W. You've mentioned more than once that The Lord of the Rings is your favorite. I realize that you have already seen them, but would you consider reacting to a second viewing of the trilogy? You have great insight and a unique perspective. I think a second viewing would be entertaining. Thanks for considering. (BTW... Theatrical Version please) ~Don
I knew that they had to film all the scenes separately because the room was too small. I didn't know that the director actually closed the walls.
I think what they did really was change the aspect ratio on the cameras.
@@chardtomp The aspect ratio never changes though.
No CGI, no blazing gun battles, no hand to hand combat, no cheesy one liners, no multiple location shots. Just 12 men in one room deciding the fate of a young man. Some of the best writing in a movie.
This!
Also worth considering that 12 Angry Men is basically a play. And yes, I'm aware that the screenwriter did also adapt the script as a play, but that's not my point. The film could easily be made as a play with very little change.
@@cmlemmus494 Agree. Some of my favorite movies started as plays, such as _Doubt, A Few Good Men_ . I'm here for intelligent dialog, and that's what a play has.
"The Man From Earth" has same features. I love that movie. Both are great in their ways.
From Juror #3's position, this trial is a representation of who is 'Guilty' in he and his son's current estrangement. He is desperate to place the Guilt on his son, but by the end he has to accept that he is the Guilty one.
Whimsory never goes on long enough. Love her outros.
I believe the reason why, when juror #9 is speaking, the camera goes to a closeup, increasingly so as the movie progresses, is because it has been established, by the statements of the others as well as his identification with the old man on the witness stand, that most people don't care what he has to say. The closeups underscore the fact that he does indeed have some important things to say.
I think Juror Number 4 is my favorite character in this movie. The way he always seems vaguely disgusted to be on the same side as 3 and 10 is a nice addition to his performance, and adds so many layers to what could have been a flat, straightforward role.
I'm 75 yrs old. I've loved this movie my entire life. As a set piece film, it's exquisite.
This is one of the best movies ever made and I'm so glad you did a reaction to it as I love when people do. It is a classic example of how all you need is good writing and cast to make a perfectly compelling movie, that even though it's in black and white can still grip audiences to this day whilst covering such important topics like discrimination and racial prejudice. I LOVE THIS FILM + You Whimsory for covering it, keep up the great work cutie!
"Why do I feel bad for him?"
Because he gave an amazing performance and it was a perfect twist that reinterpreted every thing Juror #3 had said up to that moment.
I was almost mad at myself for feeling bad for him when i watched it the first time 😂
"Them" means Puerto Ricans. At that time there was a lot of tension around the influx of Puerto Ricans moving to New York City. Another movie that touched on these tensions was WEST SIDE STORY.
By leaving it somewhat vague "Those people" can be any prejudice.
Ahh I always assumed them was Italians. You know what big drinkers they are and wham someone is lying in the gutter dead.
It was pretty genius actually to leave it non specific. That junior could be any American who holds a prejudice. Like believing a whole group of people are eating cats and dogs. . .it could be anyone at any point in our history.
neither here nor there but I think the film takes place in Chicago..
Love when people give this one a try. I haven’t seen anyone be disappointed by the end.
Great outro. Thanks for putting so much effort into it. It’s appreciated.
IMO a top 5 all-time movie. That single shot opening scene is a thing of beauty.
One of the very few i gave a 10/10
Whimsory, I frequently lament the lack of frequency of your videos, and I hope you recognize that as an appreciation of the fine quality of your reactions and commentary. Did you realize that over 50% of this video is your commentary? To get your audience to stick around through that, you have to have demonstrated time and again that hearing your take on it is worth it. It’s also rewarding to see you recognize actors you’ve seen in other films, and I’ll be watching in your future reactions to hear you say, ‘Hey, he was in 12 Angry Men!’. This reaction was thoughtful, well-researched, smart, funny, and above all enjoyable. Thank you for what you do.
Another great movie reaction. I hope you have great weekend Whimsory, thank you brighten up our day once again 😊
It would be interesting to see a jury of 12 angry Whimsories.
This is definitely one of the best movies ever made. The level of acting talent in that room isn't likely to be seen again.
Whimsory, you never fail to delight us with your reactions!
I love that we never actually find out if he did it or not, just that it's possible that he didn't.
Hi Whimsory, about Juror #9, I think those intense close ups were used because he is the most self - revelatory of all the jurors.
When the camera goes close on him it shows the deep self reflection he has undergone and is about to reveal to everyone . The scene where he sizes up the old man witness, the juror is in the exact same circumstance. He is ignored, written off, taken for granted. He also has not been singled out for recognition. He understands why the old witness would seek attention by creating a scenario that everyone wants to hear. He has been tempted to do it himself. The only other juror who is as self revelatory is the Lee J. Cobb character. But that builds up throughout, and then he explodes at the end.
Great commentary
I’ve probably said this before, but I’ll say it again - this is the smartest film review channel on the internet. And (in character of Lee J Cobb) nothing anybody says is going to change my mind about that! 🙂
One of the best movies ever made, an American civics lesson, a seminar in conflict resolution, and on and on…. Thank you as ever for a great review and brining some of the greatest movies, old and new, to a younger audience. I also suggest Maltese Falcon.
OMG!! Thank you so much!! 🤗
You're a national treasure, Whimsory. Thank you for your sense of humor and also for being the charter member of your generation's Martin Balsam Fan Club.
I imagine you would be the perfect audience for great directors because you pick up on all the subtleties, humane moments, and deeper themes of these excellent films. Just keep going!
I wached this in 2005 when I was 17 and it became my favorite film of all time. People always assume that I'm an "art film guy" for suggesting it, but the WHOLE POINT of suggesting and old movie is because it has stood the test of time. Do people seriously think that every single piece of classical music is still played today? nope, most of it was forgotten.
Good point
Not sure how old you are, but if you are 25 or younger, you are wise beyond your years and very enchanting to watch and listen to.
Way to go, your synopsis was fantastic!!!
Thanks, Whimsory! ⚖ I knew you'd love this one! The writer, as you noted, was Reginald Rose; the director was Sidney Lumet. Rose also wrote Season 4 Episode 15 of THE TWILIGHT ZONE entitled "The Wonderful World of Horace Ford" (1963). Lumet did one of my all-time favorites, a mystery/comedy/drama DEATHTRAP (1982), which I highly recommend.
oh yea she def will love Death trap and the nice twists and then the GREAT ending. THe Play on broadway lasted over 1700 performances, and she would really love it
@@michaelceraso1977 Thanks, Michael! 🥂
Wanted to randomly add that your awards for this video are so amazing.
One of the greatest films ever made, and appreciated nowhere near enough.
Sidney Lumet has an incredible body of work. This film, Network, Dog Day Afternoon, Fail Safe, Serpico, The Verdict, the list goes on. Also, he wrote a book titled "Making Movies" that I would recommend to anyone that is interested in films.
_Twelve Angry Men_ was originally made for television in 1954 as part of the “Westinghouse Studio One” anthology series. Joseph Sweeney, juror 9, the old man, is the only actor from the tv version to appear in the film.
The full version is available on RUclips.
Juror #11, the watchmaker, is the same actor too. I have The Criterion Collection copy of this, and the original “Studio One” episode is a bonus on the blu-ray.
@@aaronhusk Thanks for the info. I hadn’t noticed that before.
Whimsory! If you want another profound and entertaining film from long ago, check out "Guess Who's Coming to Dinner" (1967).
A magnificent comedy-drama about upper class parents, their daughter and her surprise engagement to an African American man.
Elite level cast: Spencer Tracy, Katherine Hepburn and Sidney Poitier
Lots of laughs and moving, profound monologues. 👍👍
Sidney Poitier has the greatest film monologue that I have ever seen.
I never get tired of watching this film. A work of art.
NOT ALOT OF DEMAND!?!? This might be one of the greatest cinematic master pieces of all time! It's amazing, and its done soooo well. It's why none of the remakes ever hit nearly as hard!
There is a reason we are still watching it nearly 70 years after it was made.
I really appreciate your reactions, Whimsory. It’s very different from the other channels I watch, and I’m very impressed with how much work, time, and effort you put into your videos. I can’t imagine how long it takes you to do everything that you do just to put out one movie reaction like you do, especially with the things you have to do in your personal life as well.
I just wanted to say that I admire all of the things you do to make your content for each video, and I hope you continue to do these very well edited, very thorough, very thought out and extremely informative reactions.
btw, pay no mind when people are extra rude to whatever reason. I'm talking about the people being rude with you about the list, but that applies to anything, just ignore them and do your thing. And yes, that list is as good as anything when it comes to subjectivity, so just go with it.
The IMDb list is a fine starting point. You just need to understand that their system is based on a weighted average of regular IMDb voters. The demographics of this group are not representative of the entire population. IMDb used to give the gender and age breakdown of the voters. Now, the only breakdown is by country. The other info may be available from IMDBPro. When the info was available, you could see the majority of the voters were young men. That's why you don't see many chick flicks in the top 250, and movies that appeal to young men may seem overrepresented and rated higher than they should be.
The list is silly ngl. Dark Knight top 3 all time? Yeah ok lmao
Thank goodness for the algorithm leading me here because this was a phenomenal reaction. On top of that the outro was in-depth, well thought out, and quite interesting. This is one of those movies that stays with you after you watch it. The acting and writing were both top tier. It essentially takes place in a single room, with long drawn out shots, and the actors fire off their lines one after the other and it sounds organic. It doesn't sound like they're regurgitating lines and this movie would be completely different if you take a single one of them away. Subscribing was a no-brainer after watching this. I'd also recommend "To Kill a Mockingbird" after having seen this. I feel it goes really well with this movie. Great job and I can't wait to see what's next in store.
This must be the most lucid, concise and insightful analysis of the individual characters I've ever heard. Good for you! These actors were some of the best of the best for their time. For all time, Jack Klugman, who was the juror who grew up in the slum, did three wonderful episodes of "The Twilight Zone" (and one mediocre one). His dramatic performances were as good as it gets. John Fiedler did a scary episode of Star Trek TOS. On the other hand, I recommend the film that Bob Gale and Bob Zemeckis did while they were writing "Back to the Future", the hilarious "Used Cars". In it we see what happens between Kurt Russell and Jack Warden (juror #7) are told by the director that they can swear as much as they want.
Hi Whimsory, it's always a good day when you post a reaction, you have a real comedic talent and are so likeable. Like all good art it doesn't matter when it was created and this film is a gem.
You are really switching it up with these reactions, including extra content in your outros is very creative and fun.
So good, one of the best ever made, all the way back in 1957, but doesn't get mentioned or watched anywhere near as much as the others at the top of the list. Under valued
Actually, I've seen a lot of rave reviews of this!
@@YvesFey when people watch it, it seems to have a really positive impact on most people. But I think hardly any people have heard of it or know much about it, especially compared to the other films high on the imdb list. Shawshank, Godfather, Dark Knight, Lord of the Rings, Schindlers List, Pulp Fiction, etc. - most people have a level of awareness of these, which 12 Angry Men doesn't have
Juror #10 (the THOSE people guy) is payed by Ed Begley Sr. who won the academy award for "Sweet Bird of Youth" where he played a crooked politician, but by all accounts he was a wonderful character actor that people loved to work with, and the same is said of his son Ed Begley Jr. who's been in tons of stuff over the years and is also a wonderful character actor.
"There isnt much demand for this movie". *I* am demanding this movie lol. I took criminal justice in college and two movies came up in classes. This and My Cousin Vinnie. Since you're open to older movies, I'll one up 1957 and recommend a silent movie called Metropolis from 1927. It was the basis for a whole genre of fiction called cyberpunk. It directly inspired movies like Blade Runner from 1982 (highly recommend that too). Metropolis may have no voice lines, but man it doesn't need it to be a great movie
Wonderful outro! Great reaction! I’m always amazed at how in-depth you go into your reactions.
This movie is a perfect movie. People always say citizen kane is the non plus ultra, but there are so many pacing issues in that one. 12 angry men…nothing can be taken out, nothing can be added, acting, score, camera work, everything is spot on.
Doesn’t have to be anyones favourite film, but it sure is flawless
As a guitarist, I can draw a comparison between Citizen Kane and Jimi Hendrix. They both redefined their respective art forms so profoundly that in their time contextually it’s hard not to call them the greatest, but compared to everything that followed they can be considered less impressive, however blasphemous some may consider it to point out any weaknesses.
What pacing issues? I don't see any
@@clarkness77 in citizen kane I was saying. Not in this one
@@stevesheroan4131 nice comparison indeed. I mean, Citizen Kane did heaps and loads for visual effects and camera techniques and in that regard is still a masterpiece. But pacing wise...
I was interested in why u think Kane has pacing issues?
A dreary day at work with more to come tomorrow. But Whimsory's cute face, adorable voice and ludic personality always boost my spirits. 🥰😘😘😘 xxxx
You are as entertaining as any reactor on the internet. Plus your in depth analysis is first rate. I would point out that you have 17k views on this one. So there is definitely an audience for classic movie reviews.
Such a well written, acted and directed film that is an icon. The director also did, “The Verdict” later with Paul Newman and Jack Warden that is also excellent. Another excellent commentary Whim.
this is one of the very few movies, that no matter when I click into it, beginning, middle or near the end, I will watch it to the end, for a movie shot almost entirely one room it's astounding, don't listen to the knuckle draggers that dis your list...great awards rofl
Same here, whenever its on at whatever point I watch it.
Juror 3 is a hidden tragedy. Early on in the movie, he mentions that he sat on MANY JURIES BEFORE. By the end of the movie, we see that he sees himself as an executioner, and it's only reasonable to assume that the other juries he sat on didn't have their own Henry Fonda. There's no way to know for sure, but there's a high probability that he showed the same amount of personal bias on the other cases too. It's possible that he has blood on his hands. And that's what he puts together when he rips the picture of his son.
George C Scott crushes it as the bigoted #3. The way he focuses his anger on the external, the 'other', instead of dealing with his own life is so well written and Scott's simmering anger is brilliantly performed until he boils over and shows his true face before giving in to "Not guilty..."
I still don't think he believes it, but can't argue with the facts Fonda is holding over him.
@@LordVolkov I haven't seen the '97 version but he's an excellent choice for a role like that.
I love this movie for so many reasons but I have a special place in my heart for movies where the entire film takes place in one room. To be able to pull that off and be this captivating is something special.
"Rope" is another one
It works because it was originally a stage play so the dialogue needs to grip you
This is one of your longer outros, and I'm happy for it. Most of us have seen these films and have our thoughts. We watch to see yours. You obviously did a lot of post work and didn't just wing it...keep up the great work.
I first saw this on late night TV as a teenager and I recognized most of the actors as being Top Shelf. It was fabulous then and still kicks 😍 great reaction as usual ❤ and the scene with jury number 3 changing his vote was so powerful 😢
Use whatever list you wanna use! If it works for you then wonderful! People who get mad over movie lists need therapy.
Sidney Lumet's first theatrical movie directing job. He had previously only done TV directing. What an entrance. And the cinematographer, Boris Kaufman, had already won an Oscar for his work filming On the Waterfront.
The best outro for a movie yet!
The great thing about this movie is it shows that a bunch of people can be witness to something but because of personal backgrounds, they see things others don't. The use of the switchblade - the indents from the eyeglasses, etc
First, as usual I enjoyed your reaction. Second, nearly everybody on YT reacts to this movie, so seriously, no need to apologize. It's a classic and deservedly so. Even if you didn't react to it on your channel, it's worth watching. Third, big shout-out to those classic actors who honed their skills on stage. They were craftsmen of the highest order and it shows in this three-room set.
Great reaction! This is one of the greatest films ever. Incredible script and performances. But the fact that it was shot in basically one room, with cleverly positioned camera angles, the simplicity is genius. Notice how we start with wider shots from above and away from the characters, and as the tension grows there are more close-ups and shots from below face level. 12 Angry Men is a masterpiece.
The verdict is in, a Whimsory reaction video makes 12 Angry Men a wonderfully intriguing outcome.
This is my favorite movie. It's an absolute masterclass of acting, screenwriting, pacing, blocking and every component of cinema.
Jury number 4 is my favorite character. Although he's technically an antagonist, he's also one of the most level headed and reasonably people in the room. He isn't voting guilty because of prejudices (unlike all of the other final holdouts), but because he genuinely believes that the correct decision based on the facts. He makes arguments to support his position, and he responds to the arguments of others and directly addresses their points (he's also visible irritated by the bluster of Juror 3 and others, even though they're "on his side"). Sometimes, after Fonda's character makes a good argument, you can see Juror number 4 sitting quietly and having a good, long think about it.
Fonda's character seems to pick up on it too. As the movie goes on, he increasingly direct his arguments directly towards Juror 4; perhaps realizing that he's the most reasonable party in the opposition and their most skilled debater. And, when he's convinced, he changes his mind. He's the most honest person in the room. He also looks kinda like my dad, which may be part of why I like him.
I remember watching this movie on Turner Classic Movies, and from the first scene I was struck by the cinematography, and then hooked on the plot driven largely by the character's dialogue & the performances. It's since remained my idea of a perfect movie, the verifiable 10/10 by which every other film I watch may be judged in terms of quality. A truly wonderful little piece of art, this is, and I'm always happy to see other people discover it.
Glad you enjoyed that so much Whimsory. I had a hunch you would be fascinated by this one. You've got a natural knack for insightful observation, and these characters provide LOADS of opportunity for that. Great analysis. Always impressed! 👍😁
One of the greatest movies of all time, and your review was fantastic, as always. You forgot to rate one major character though. The Weather. There are a few gems from this time period and beyond. Worth looking into. Johnny got his gun 1971 is a film that comes to mind, at the top of my head.
What an amazing analysis! Your reaction videos are always a delight.
So, I think that Henry Fonda, arguably by far the biggest name in this movie at the time, took scale to help get this movie made, he loved the script so much. As far as the age of the film, it is worth remembering that as we move further ahead in time the things that last, tend to be the good things. There were movies that came out the same year that were forgotten and are lost. This one people see and love 70 years later. Amazing.
The imdb list isn't perfect, but as a guide to give you ideas, I think it works well. Also I appreciate how you combine thoughtful, smart, analysis with goofy humor.
Great reaction. It's always fun to see people wondering why this unprepossessing old B&W film is so incredibly highly rated among other more obvious highly rated films, but you can show it to literally anyone and within the first 2 minutes they're engrossed, and by the end of the film they're completely invested in every single character and hanging on every line of dialogue.
Another similarly claustrophobically intense film by the same director, Sidney Lumet, is Dog Day Afternoon, about a real-life bank robbery gone wrong. It also has you 100% in the moment with a transformed attachment to the characters from when the film started, and again it's to all intents and purposes a single-room drama carried entirely by the writing, acting, and cinematography. Well worth a watch (or even a react!)
I love 4 (Glasses Guy) during the racist tyrade scene. He's the only one who doesn't turn away, and _just_ when you think he won't... "I _have_ listened to you. Now sit down and _don't open your mouth again_ ." What a mic drop.
He's my favorite of all. He seems to be the only one who goes by facts and facts alone. Even that line was delivered calmly, with all his despise for the racist guy put into words, not tone. I think he said he works in finances, but I like to call him “the mathematician”.
@@migmit my uni counted finance classes as high level math courses, so I think it's fair game
Just recently watched this with my wife and 9 year old grandson, neither had watched it before. Even the 9 year old was glued to the screen. Said it was a really good movie. Your analysis is fantastic and amazing, great job. Movies like this prove that you can have a great drama without a lot of explosions, violence, graphic language, special effects or just any action at all.
Great reaction Whimsory! I feel you always do a really good job, but this outro was - to date - your magna opus! My theory to why juror #9 got the unique close ups is that because he is of an age demographic that separates him from the other jurors and most viewers. The closeness may make it easier for us to relate to this man without having shared the experiences of his decades. Maybe, by focusing on his face we can all see our future selves reflected? Basically, that's my theory - so we can better relate with a character in whose shoes we've not yet walked. Just a theory.
Night of the Hunter. If you're going with older movies it's so so so good. Enjoy!
12 Angry Men should be in high demand. This is a great movie.
Brilliant film. Superb cast, great dialogue and fantastically directed. Glad you enjoyed it, Whimsory, it's a true classic. Another Martin Balsam film you might like to watch is The Bedford Incident from 1965 with Sidney Poitier and Richard Widmark.
That’s the best analysis of this film I’ve ever seen.
One of my favorite films from the 1950's, such a great picture, so creative, so elegant, and I love that so many reactors have watched it recently...long overdue. A lot of my friends have never seen this film, so I'm so happy so many younger people are discovering it.
This is one of my favorite movies. One is the loneliest number that you'll ever do 🎶 I think I have seen this movie about 15 times, and I know I have seen at least five reactions to it. But I have never seen anyone break it down like you did. Great Job!
Thank you for introducing me to this movie. What a lineup.
"Them" refers to the substantial post-WW2 emigration of Puerto Ricans to New York City.
This is my favourite movie ever made. The 90s remake is pretty good too and I was lucky enough to see it on stage (the original form of the script) last year
I actually prefer the 1998 remake. This one's great and all, but the remake's dialogue seemed more natural.
you spend so much time and effort on your movies that i would watch you talk about anything. on the other hand this is one of my favorite movies.
If you want more Lee J Cobb, then you should check out "On the Waterfront" at some point. It has a young Marlon Brando. And I think you'll absolutely fall in love with Karl Malden -- a great actor and presence on screen.
Juror number 9 close up question: I am guessing, but I think that the reason they close up on his face is to almost call the audience out. The director is calling out the fact that we ignore the elderly, we often regard them with little seriousness, which was one of the points the movie was making via the discussion of the older witness wanting to be listened to. The close up is almost like forcing the audience to pay attention to #9.
Great reaction and analysis to a fantastic movie. Absolutely blew me away on first watch and never get tired of reactions to it. Love your quirkiness and ranking of the jurors - it really warms the heart when a younger person can appreciate a classic movie that's so old to them, kinda gives me some hope for the future.