The Rewatchables ‘A Few Good (Re)Men’ Live From L.A. With Bill Simmons, Chris Ryan, and Sean Fennessey
Aug 1, 2023
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Verbal Action Drives The Movie
- A Few Good Men functions as a "verbal action" movie where dialogue drives tension more than mystery or spectacle.
- The film reveals its culprit early and converts suspense into the craft of exposing motive and pride, culminating in the climactic courtroom duel.
Cruise's Performance Is Pure Movie Star
- Tom Cruise gives his most "movie star" performance here: charismatic, mercurial, and designed to dominate scenes.
- The panel credits Cruise's energy and timing for carrying the film, even if they debate his best overall acting work.
Nicholson Ran The Jessup Scene Every Take
- Rob Reiner filmed Jack Nicholson's final courtroom speech multiple times and Nicholson insisted on delivering it fully each take.
- Reiner worried Nicholson would burn out, but cast and crew called that day "Jack Nicholson day" because each take was a home run.