Synopsis:

Jan Schlichtmann is a cynical, high priced personal injury attorney who only takes big-money cases he can safely settle out of court. Though his latest case at first appears straightforward, Schlicchtmann soon becomes entangled in an epic battle…one where he's willing to put his career, reputation and all that he owns on the line for the rights of his clients.-Back of the box spin. I have to admit, Travolta put out an incredible performance in this film. If I could describe the intensity that propels it, it's akin to the same powerful imagery and dialogue found in Erin Brockovich and The Rainmaker. Powerful, hard-hitting, gut wrenching at times and redemptive. All these and more are levels of intensity that you'll experience while watching A Civil Action. Some have identified this as the best legal thriller …ever. I can't give the film that kind of a send off but it is both gripping and extremely entertaining.

Audio/Video:

The audio is presented in a rich DD5.1 that more than adequately presents the film's aural elements. For the most part, this is a dialogue driven film that relies heavily on stingers and the occasional thunderclap. The score is brilliantly moving and quite beautiful and it is the predominant aural texture interwoven throughout the listening space. The dialogue is clear and easily understood and the surrounds and LFE add a further level of sweetness to an already first rate audio presentation. The video is equally impressive in it's scope. The widescreen transfer is very striking and perfect in its presentation. There were no imperfections or transfer errors noted. The colors were rich and well saturated. The fleshtones accurate and blacks extremely black and true. In all an excellent transfer.

Extras:

The only extras included are the film's theatrical trailer and a very brief 8-10 minute featurette on the making of A Civil Action.

Overall:

John Travolta is (or was after Battlefield Earth) experiencing resurgence in his career. His portrayal of this attorney was absolutely beautiful. Playing off experts like Robert Duvall, John Lithgow, Kathy Bates and William H. Macy definitely made for an intense experience and IMHO, Travolta stood toe to toe with them and gave as good as he got. There's something about the attitude his character had that seemed to fit him to a "T". I am a fan of legal drama and can be scathing when they miss the mark or never even come close. A Civil Action not only hit the mark, it nailed incredible performances by a top-drawer cast coupled with an excellent story. For the level of intensity, drama and performances from some of the industry's best, A Civil Action is definitely among the best of the genre.