“12 Angry Men” A work of “American conscience” that questions true democracy

The success of the TV drama and the development of a movie

"12 Angry Men Men" was originally produced as a television drama. Since 1948, CBS has been broadcasting live one-off dramas called "Westinghouse Studio One" (at the time, VTRs had not yet been invented, so live broadcasts were the norm), and "12 Angry Men" was one of the episodes that was broadcast in September 1954.

Starring Robert Cummings, known for " The Saboteur of the Apes" (1942), and directed by Franklin J. Schaffner, who would later work on " Beneath the Planet of the Apes " (1968), the drama was well-received and won the Primetime Emmy Awards for Best Writing, Best Directing, and Best Actor.

Henry Fonda, one of Hollywood's most famous actors, was impressed by this TV drama. Although he had never produced a film before, he decided to co-produce the film with author Reginald Rhodes and appointed Sidney Lumet to direct it.

"Dog Day Afternoon" preview

Sidney Lumet is a socially conscious master known for films such as " Serpico " (1973), " Murder on the Orient Express " (1974), and " Dog Day Afternoon Afternoon" (1975). At the time, he had no experience directing a feature film, but Henry Fonda highly valued his extensive television track record and his solid work, which never exceeded budgets or schedules.

Although the film is starring and produced by the big star Henry Fonda, the production cost was low at around $350,000, and the filming schedule was tight with only 19 days. Since it is a closed-door drama that takes place only in the jury room, the director's ability to provide acting guidance and cut cuts is also required. Although there are a lot of problems, Sidney Lumet has developed a detailed production plan that you wouldn't expect from a young 33-year-old director, and shows his outstanding skills.

Sidney Lumet's outstanding direction