64. The Winslow Boy

Is there a screenwriter alive today who packs more into less than David Mamet? Mamet not only writes but also directs The Winslow Boy, an uncharacteristic (for him) G-rated film. This 1999 movie tells the true 1910 story which changed the face of English jurisprudence forever, and is quite remarkable in its artistic restraint. Nigel Hawthorn stars as a patriarch who risks his family fortune to protect his family name. That the issue in question deals with a thirteen-year-old boy and the accused theft of a mere five shillings is immaterial. There's a greater principle at stake. That alone signals that this film is a cut above the norm. Moral integrity is not often given the cinematic spotlight.

For those willing to explore something other than the mindless explosive-happy blockbusters playing at the cineplex, The Winslow Boy offers an intelligent, thought-provoking and thoroughly entertaining tale based upon a stage play by Terrance Rattigan. "Let right be done!" was the rallying cry for those supporting the Winslows. The right thing for cinephiles is to finally give this film its due. (Michael Elliott)