Podcast
Questions and Answers
What is the main theme of the movie 'Class Action'?
Who directed the film 'Class Action'?
Michael Apted
What role does Gene Hackman play in the film?
Jedediah Tucker Ward
What is the relationship between Jedediah Ward and Maggie Ward?
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Which actress plays Maggie Ward?
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What year was the film 'Class Action' released?
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What is 'Legal Realism' as mentioned in the flashcards?
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Maggie Ward takes a conservative political approach in her career.
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What was the significant case that inspired the plot of 'Class Action'?
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Which notable director directed the James Bond film 'The World is Not Enough'?
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Study Notes
Class Action Film Overview
- Released in 1991, directed by Michael Apted.
- Stars Gene Hackman as Jedediah Tucker Ward and Mary Elizabeth Mastrantonio as his daughter Maggie Ward.
- Loosely based on the case Grimshaw v. Ford Motor Co. involving the Ford Pinto's dangerous defects.
- The film centers on a lawsuit due to injuries sustained from a defective automobile, highlighting personal and professional conflicts between the lead characters.
Case Background
- Grimshaw v. Ford involved a fatal accident where a Ford Pinto caught fire after being rear-ended.
- Mrs. Lilly Gray died, and 13-year-old Richard Grimshaw suffered severe burns, leading to a lawsuit against Ford.
- Verdict: Grimshaw awarded $2.5 million in compensatory and $125 million in punitive damages; Grays received $559,680.
- Upon Ford's appeal, Grimshaw had to reduce his punitive award to $3.5 million.
Movie Plot Dynamics
- Jed Ward discovers his estranged daughter Maggie is representing the auto manufacturer he is suing.
- Conflict arises from differing professional ideologies: Jed is a civil rights attorney, while Maggie works for a corporate law firm with conservative values.
- The corporate strategy depicted involves prioritizing profit over safety, presenting moral dilemmas around consumer safety and corporate ethics.
Gene Hackman
- Portrays Jedediah Tucker Ward, a civil rights lawyer with a complicated relationship with his daughter.
- Notable roles include Popeye Doyle in "The French Connection."
- Background: Former disc jockey, Marine Corps veteran, and recognized for his method acting approach.
Mary Elizabeth Mastrantonio
- Plays Maggie Ward, the daughter of Jed Ward.
- Background: Trained opera singer and actress, known for roles in "The Color of Money" and "Scarface."
- Origin: Raised in Oak Park, Illinois, daughter of Italian immigrants, and gained acting experience in high school theater.
Director Michael Apted
- A prominent English filmmaker, also directed entries in the James Bond franchise and "Coal Miner's Daughter."
- Served as President of the Directors Guild of America.
- Recognized for his prolific contributions to both British cinema and broader film narratives.
Supporting Characters
- Laurence Fishburne portrays Nick Holbrook, Jed's partner.
- Joanna Merlin plays Estelle Ward, Maggie's mother, contributing to the family dynamics.
Legal Themes
- Legal Realism: The film explores realistic portrayals of legal practices and courtroom dynamics.
- Reason Law: Represents modern legal perspectives as embodied by Maggie's character; explores societal views influenced by popular culture.
- Emotion Justice: Reflects traditional views of justice, contrasting modern interpretations seen through the character development of Jed Ward.
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Description
Test your knowledge about the 1991 drama thriller film 'Class Action.' Explore key themes, characters, and the real-life case that inspired the movie. See how well you remember the plot and the performances of Gene Hackman and Mary Elizabeth Mastrantonio.
