Drama
While comedies make us laugh and action films generate thrills, drama engages other emotions, often painful. The subject matter is usually very serious, sometimes depressing, but, in the best dramas, very powerful. The tragedy of Titanic's sinking, the racial tension from In the Heat of the Night, and the courtroom battles of will in Twelve Angry Men and A Few Good Men make for riveting viewing.
Twelve Angry Men
Sidney Lumet and the twelve actors led by Henry Fonda create vivid personalities in this excellent courtroom drama. Not only is the dialogue brilliant, but the narrative pulls us in as, one by one, each juror joins Fonda as the lone voices preaching for patience and further investigation before pronouncing a boy guilty. Full review.
Titanic (1997)
Cameron's master stroke is that he weaves a thoroughly captivating romance using the backdrop of the Titanic tragedy. Without this emotional involvement, the eventual sinking would have felt detached and documentary-like in tone. Great performances by Kate Winslet and Kathy Bates as Molly Brown.
In the Heat of the Night
Marvellous crime drama directed by Norman Jewison is as much an examination of racial tension as it is a crime story. A big city detective is called upon to help a southern town solve a murder, but is met with disdain and suspicion because he is black. Brilliant performances by Sidney Poitier and Rod Steiger, who won an Oscar for his role. Their first meeting is electrifying.
Raging Bull
Thoroughly absorbing film biography of boxing champion Jake La Motta. The fights pack a punch (sorry for the pun!), but it's his personal life that is even more gripping. Robert de Niro at his method acting best; fine support from Joe Pesce and Cathy Moriarty. Filmed in B&W and underscored by perfect use of Mascagni's Cavalleria Rusticana.
Schindler's List
Steven Spielberg's most personal film, set against the backdrop of the Holocaust and World War II. The story of greedy, womanising Oskar Schindler, who initially uses Jews for profit, but eventually becomes their savour, is memerising. Great use of B&W and colour, and great performances from the whole cast, especially Liam Neeson as Schindler.
A Few Good Men
One of the best courtroom dramas ever, adapted from Aaron Sorkin's play. Military lawyer Dan Kaffee (Tom Cruise) is enlisted to defend two Marines accused of murdering a colleague. Jack Nicholson is the commander who stands in his way. Tense courtroom clashes and lots of shouting. A great film to use for the game "Six Degrees of Kevin Bacon."