Arts

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Photo courtesy of Cage Skidmore

WHY IT’S FAMOUS:

Probably one of the most epic legal thrillers to ever be pumped out of Hollywood, this flick has inspired many a young, impressionable arts major to take the path of legal studies. This classic mix of an impossible case, an arrogant hero, and a tough leading lady remains relevant, inspiring, and completely brilliant.

FAMOUS LINES:

Col. Jessep: You want answers?

Kaffee: I want the truth!

Col. Jessep: You can’t handle the truth!

Capt. West: Commander Galloway, why don’t you get yourself a cup of coffee.

Galloway: Thank you, sir, I’m fine.

Capt. West: Commander, I’d like you to leave the room so we can talk about you behind your back.

WHY YOU HAVEN’T SEEN IT:

If all you know about this movie is its famous lines, then it’s easy to assume it might be outdated, if not entirely corny.

WHY YOU SHOULD SEE IT ANYWAY:

While a couple references (and hairstyles) may be “a little too 1992,” this is an unavoidable movie for anyone even remotely interested in law. The comedic moments are timeless, Tom Cruise is delightfully douchey, and the plot might just keep you on the edge of your seat.

FUN FACTS:

• The movie’s line “You can’t handle the truth!” was voted the 29th greatest movie quote by the American Film Institute (out of 100).

• The original play was inspired by an actual code red at Guantanamo Bay. Lance Corporal David Cox and nine other enlisted men tied up a fellow Marine and severely beat him for snitching to the Naval Criminal Investigative Service. Cox was acquitted and later honourably discharged. In 1994, David Cox mysteriously vanished, and his bullet-riddled body was found three months later. His murder remains unsolved.

Author

  • Fall 2023: Sydney Grenier Spring 2022: Desiree Nikfardjam Fall 2021: Zofka Svec 2020-2021: Aisling Murphy 2019-2020: Ryan Pepper 2018-2019: Iain Sellers 2017-2018: Ryan Pepper