Gideon's Trumpet

Henry Fonda gives a marvellous performance in this TV movie based on a true-life court case that enshrined the principle of free representation in American legal history. Although not the obvious choice to play a semi-literate convict, Fonda manages to bring off the characterisation with a bravado that is both winning and warm. In short, this is great acting. Also remarkably effective is José Ferrer as Fonda's lawyer Abe Fortas. John Houseman, who executive produced, heads up a distinguished supporting cast that includes Dean Jagger and Fay Wray. In a much-maligned genre, this is an example of the TV movie at its best, tackling a subject that cinema might regard as uncommercial.