The film "Trial and Error," also known as "The Dock Brief," is a 1962 black-and-white British legal satire directed by James Hill. It stars Peter Sellers and Richard Attenborough and is based on the play of the same name written by John Mortimer. The plot revolves around an incompetent barrister who is assigned to defend an accused wife murderer. The film is a comedy-drama that portrays the struggles of the barrister as he takes on this challenging case. The movie had its world premiere on 20 September 1962 at the Plaza Theatre in London's West End. Richard Attenborough was nominated for the 1963 BAFTA Award for best British actor for his role.
Plot
The film "Trial and Error," also known as "The Dock Brief," is a 1962 black-and-white British legal satire directed by James Hill. It stars Peter Sellers and Richard Attenborough and is based on the play of the same name written by John Mortimer. The plot revolves around an incompetent barrister who is assigned to defend an accused wife murderer. The film is a comedy-drama that portrays the struggles of the barrister as he takes on this challenging case.
Trailer
cast
- Peter Sellers as Wilfred Morgenhall, barrister
- Richard Attenborough as Herbert Fowle, the accused murderer
- Beryl Reid as Doris Fowle, his late wife
- David Lodge as Frank Bateson, the lodger
- Frank Pettingell as Tuppy Morgan, solicitor
- Audrey Nicholson as Morgenhall's girl (in flashback)
- Tristram Jellinek as Mr. Perkins, the prosecutor
- Eric Woodburn as judge Banter
- John Waite as clerk of the court
- Patrick Newell as 1st warder
- Henry Kay as 2nd warder
- Frank Thornton as photographer at the Fowle wedding
- Eric Dodson as examiner
Director: James Hill
Writer: John Mortimer (playwright)
Box Office Gross: No information
Distributor: British Film Corporation (BFC).
Genre: Legal satire, comedy-drama.
Release Date: The film was released on September 20, 1962.
Theme
The film "Trial and Error" explores the theme of legal satire, portraying the struggles of an incompetent barrister assigned to defend an accused wife murderer.
Reception
The reception of the film "Trial and Error" was generally positive, with praise for its comedic and dramatic elements, as well as the performances of the lead actors.
Settings, Visual Styles, and Techniques
The film is set in a legal environment and features black-and-white visual style typical of the early 1960s. The techniques used include satire and comedy to portray the legal proceedings.
Trivia and Fun Facts
- The film is also known as "The Dock Brief."
- It is based on the play of the same name written by John Mortimer.
- Richard Attenborough was nominated for the 1963 BAFTA Award for best British actor for his role in the film.