12 ANGRY MEN (1957) | Official Trailer | MGM

Summary

In this intense scene, a group of men deliberates over the fate of a man whose life hangs in the balance. Tensions rise as the characters argue about the possibility of guilt, with some showing unwavering conviction while others express doubt. Emotions escalate as one man, driven by a personal vendetta, challenges the group’s decision-making. The atmosphere grows charged, highlighting the moral conflict and inner turmoil of the characters, creating a gripping moment of suspense and reflection on justice, responsibility, and human nature.

Takeaways

• 😀 The scene revolves around a life-or-death situation, emphasizing the gravity of the decision being made.
• 😀 One character insists that something is not possible, while another counters that it is, creating a tension between them.
• 😀 The character offers to make himself shorter, perhaps as a demonstration of something related to the scenario at hand.
• 😀 There’s an air of uncertainty as one character claims they don't understand the other people involved, highlighting a lack of communication or empathy.
• 😀 One character expresses frustration with others over 'picky little points' that seem irrelevant, signaling a sense of impatience or disbelief.
• 😀 The idea of trying a man for something is brought up, suggesting a formal or legal process that is taking place in the context of the scene.
• 😀 A sense of hopelessness is conveyed as one character prays for others to understand their situation, perhaps hoping for empathy or change.
• 😀 The group of characters is referred to as 'twelve men,' perhaps alluding to a jury or decision-making group, and the smell of violent death adds to the tension.
• 😀 A strong accusation is made, questioning whether one of the characters is playing the role of the executioner, adding moral and ethical weight to the situation.
• 😀 The final lines suggest a descent into chaos, with 'twelve men' turning into 'twelve clawing animals,' highlighting a breakdown in civility or reason.

Q & A

What is the central conflict in the script?

The central conflict revolves around a trial where a man's life is at stake. Tension builds as the characters debate whether the defendant is guilty or innocent, with some questioning the motives and methods of others involved.

How does the speaker feel about the proceedings?

The speaker appears frustrated and disillusioned with the proceedings, criticizing the focus on minor details and expressing disbelief at the lack of urgency in the trial. There is also a strong emotional response to the potential death sentence.

What is the significance of the phrase 'you are going to try a man for me'?

This phrase signifies a shift in perspective, where the speaker challenges others to take responsibility for their judgment of the defendant. It emphasizes the gravity of the trial, as if the fate of the man is not just a legal matter, but a personal one.

What emotional tone does the speaker convey when saying 'watch them, and pray for some day you may become one of them'?

The tone is reflective and somewhat cynical. The speaker is urging the listeners to understand the burden of being one of the jurors who must pass judgment, while hinting at the potential moral and emotional toll that such a responsibility might carry.

What does the speaker mean by 'twelve men, with the smell of violent death in their nostrils'?

This metaphor conveys the intensity of the trial and the weight of the jurors' decision. The phrase suggests that the jurors are close to deciding the fate of a man, and that the atmosphere is charged with the potential for violence, as a death sentence hangs in the balance.

How does the speaker view the actions of the other characters?

The speaker seems highly critical of the other characters, particularly their indecisiveness and tendency to focus on trivial details. The speaker views these actions as irresponsible, which adds to the overall frustration with the proceedings.

What is the meaning behind the line 'you're letting them slip through our fingers'?

This line suggests that the speaker believes the chance to ensure justice is slipping away due to the hesitancy or ineffectiveness of the people involved. It reflects a sense of urgency and the fear that an innocent man might be wrongfully convicted.

What role does the concept of justice play in the script?

Justice is a central theme in the script, as the characters are wrestling with the responsibility of making a life-or-death decision. The script explores the complexities of ensuring a fair trial, with some characters feeling that the process is flawed or inadequate.

How does the music contribute to the emotional atmosphere of the script?

The music serves to amplify the tension and emotional stakes in the scene. It underscores the moments of frustration and urgency, helping to build a sense of drama and suspense as the debate over the defendant's fate intensifies.

What does the speaker mean when calling someone a 'sadist'?

The speaker uses the term 'sadist' to accuse someone of deriving pleasure from causing pain or suffering, implying that their actions or attitudes are cruel and unnecessary. This reflects the speaker's anger at how some individuals are handling the trial.