“To Kill a Mockingbird” (1962) – Robert Mulligan’s Captivating Adaptation of a Classic Book About Racism

Director: Robert Mulligan

Starring Gregory Peck, Mary Badham, Phillip Alfrod

‘Captivating Courtroom Drama’

“To Kill A Mockingbird” is directed by Robert Mulligan. Its script is written by Horton Foote and based off a novel by Harper Lee. This film stars Gregory Peck, Frank Overton, Mary Badham, Phillip Alfrod, and Brock Peters. Its plot is set in the 1930s and follows Atticus Finch (Gregory Peck), a lawyer in the Depression- era, who defends a black man (Brock Peters) against an undeserved rape charge, and his kids against prejudice. “To Kill A Mockingbird” won 3 Academy Awards including Best Actor, Best Art Direction, and Best Writing.

Robert Mulligan has created a magnificent film that explores heavy themes such as racism and family ties. It isn’t easy to adapt a book into a film, but with the help of a fantastic script and a great cast, Mulligan captures the true essence of life. He directs this film with engaging and intense shots; making efficient use of cinematography. The screenplay by Horton Foote is realistic and intelligent in so many ways. The dialogue only enhances this movie and takes it to another level. Each character is full of depth and wonder.

Gregory Peck delivers one of the greatest performances in cinematic history. Peck commands the screen as a lawyer struggling to keep both his family and job in control. Peck has undeniable screen presence and breathtaking dialogue. He was completely deserving for the Academy Award he got. Mary Badham is admirable as the lawyer’s daughter. She captures Scout’s childlike innocence and curiosity, being a perfect actress for the role. For a child actress, she showcases maturity beyond her years. It’s one of the greatest performances I have ever seen from a child actor. She and co-star Phillip Alfrod shine in every scene they are in. The rest of the cast including Brock Peters, Frank Overton, and Robert Duvall  is committed and essentially perfect.

 “To Kill A Mockingbird” is absorbing, profound, and powerful. It is one of the greatest films ever made and a very important one of its times. 

Nearly 60 years following the publication of an iconic book about lawyers with charisma battling racism during the segregation era, it’s a powerful tribute to a legendary piece of literature that forever changed perceptions of race in America.

5/5 stars