Law and justice films -- whether they're set solely in a courtroom or are sprawling thrillers -- have been dominating Hollywood for years. However, it hasn't always been such a popular genre, and there are certainly flicks out there that fell through the cracks while the most notable examples of the genre cemented law and justice themes into Hollywood.
From political contexts to social justice, many films make it big because of actors, directors, or plots, and these are the films that stick out among the rest and remain timeless and influential masterpieces. For huge fans of this genre, it's time to celebrate the best. Here are ten incredibly influential flicks about law and justice, ranked, according to IMDb.
The Accused (1988) - 7.1
With Jodie Foster and Kelly McGillis, this is one of the most powerful female-led justice flicks out there, and is beyond impressive for a flick from the late '80s - a time when legal dramas and thrillers were the norm.
A young woman, Sarah Tobias, suffers a terrible gang rape and Deputy District Attorney Kathryn Murphy (Kelly McGillis) must bring all those involved to justice despite how stacked the cards seem to be. Jodie Foster took home an Oscar for her role as Sarah, but there is much more to celebrate about this film. The Accused influenced the role of justice, sex, and gender when it comes to Hollywood legal dramas in more ways than one.
And Justice For All (1979) - 7.4
This crime drama was a hidden gem in the '70s, directed by Norman Jewison and starring the brilliant and then upcoming Al Pacino. Pacino plays a lawyer here, tasked to defend a corrupt judge.
He struggles to find true justice for the innocent and the guilty, and this thrilling and suspenseful courtroom drama is one of the best examples of this niche part of the genre. Plus, Pacino's riveting performance certainly stands out.
Law Abiding Citizen (2009) - 7.4
The theme of vigilante justice is definitely a popular one in film, and this memorable and relatively modern classic is certainly no exception. With Gerard Butler and Jamie Foxx, the action-packed crime drama Law Abiding Citizen follows a man who decides to create his own justice after a plea bargain and a technicality sets the killer of his family free.
Law Abiding Citizen may have a modest 7.4/10, but it's a pinnacle piece when it comes to justice and the ethical dilemma of taking matters into one's hands or not. This particular film undoubtedly influenced the resurgence of the vigilante thriller in Hollywood.
My Cousin Vinny (1992) - 7.6
This is the only flick on the list that can also fall into comedy and drama territories, which makes it unique in itself. My Cousin Vinny follows Bill and Stan, two New Yorkers who are on trial for murder in Alabama. With no choice, they call their cousin Vinny (Joe Pesci), an attorney, for help. Problem is, Vinny's a loudmouthed attorney with zero trial experience.
This comedic crime drama is unlike any other, and is certainly a classic when it comes to justice flicks. Joe Pesci is masterful in this somewhat underrated role, and My Cousin Vinny stands out among the rest for its comic ingenuity.
Philadelphia (1993) - 7.7
This flick stars Tom Hanks and Denzel Washington, and is directed by Jonathan Demme. It follows Andy Beckett (Hanks), who is HIV positive and is subsequently fired from his law firm because of it. After being turned down by many lawyers, Andy has no choice but to go to the initially homophobic Joe Miller (Washington). Together, they form an unlikely friendship and bring Andy's former employers to task.
This '90s drama is definitely a hidden gem, and received two Oscars. In tackling heavy themes of sexuality, justice, prejudice, and law, Philadelphia is certainly a must-see when it comes to influential and unique movies of this genre.
Anatomy Of A Murder (1959) - 8.0
This early flick follows a murder trial, where the defendant claims insanity after he murders a bartender after he raped and beat his wife. Lawyers fight to find justice and protect their clients, especially after he pleads "not guilty".
Nominated for seven Oscars, Otto Preminger directs this crime drama with James Stewart, Eve Arden, and Lee Remick. Anatomy Of A Murder is certainly a timeless staple in the genre.
In The Name Of The Father (1993) - 8.1
Based on a tragic true story, Daniel Day-Lewis takes the lead as Gerry Conlon in this biography drama that takes place during a difficult period in Ireland's history. Five Irish men are coerced by British authorities into confessing their alleged involvement in a Provisional IRA bombing, which ends up imprisoning them all - including Gerry and his father. An English lawyer tries to free them and clear their names.
This movie burst onto the movie scene for being so powerful in its political context, acting roles, and mesmerizing tale about justice. With seven Oscar nominations, director Jim Sheridan created a hugely influential piece through In The Name Of The Father.
To Kill A Mockingbird (1962)
This flick is based on the classic novel by Harper Lee of the same name. Directed by Robert Mulligan, this Oscar-winning movie stars Gregory Peck, John Megna, Frank Overton, and Robert Duvall. In a time of civil unrest, a white lawyer defends a Black man against a rape charge all while he tries to raise his curios children right.
Taking place in the south during the heights of the Great Depression, To Kill A Mockingbird is about the difficult relationship between race and justice, and offers a unique tale of family and youth as well. This courtroom drama is much more than a simple courtroom drama, and deserves an immediate watch due to its lasting relevance.
12 Angry Men (1957) - 8.9
This crime drama comes from the '50s, and is directed by the brilliant and iconic Sidney Lumet. With Henry Fonda and Lee J. Cobb, this flick was way ahead of its time, and still holds up in many powerful ways today.
A jury is tasked to determine the guilt of a young Hispanic boy, who is charged with murdering his father. The entire flick is locked down on the deliberation itself, with memorable monologues and intriguing controversies. 12 Angry Men definitely paved the way for this genre and has been remade and homaged countless times thanks to its compelling story and importance to film.
The Shawshank Redemption (1994) - 9.3
This prison drama is not just one of the most famous examples of the law and justice subgenre, but one of the most famous films made as well. With Tim Robbins and Morgan Freeman, Frank Darabont directs this intriguing and unique drama about life in prison.
In The Shawshank Redemption, two very different men bond behind bars, trying to find redemption within themselves and within the system, among an environment that doesn't allow for much. Based on the novel by Stephen King of the same name, this '90s flick was way ahead of its time, and is a film that must be watched when discussing justice flicks.