“A Civil Action” is a 1998 legal drama film directed by Steven Zaillian, based on the true story documented in the book of the same name by Jonathan Harr. The film stars John Travolta as Jan Schlichtmann, a personal injury lawyer, and is set in Woburn, Massachusetts.
The plot revolves around Schlichtmann, who initially takes on a case involving the contamination of drinking water in Woburn by two large corporations, W.R. Grace and Beatrice Foods, which allegedly caused the deaths of several children from leukemia and other health issues.
Schlichtmann, known for his ambitious and somewhat arrogant approach, takes on the case with hopes of achieving a substantial financial settlement for the affected families. However, he soon finds himself overwhelmed by the complexities of the legal system and the resources of the powerful corporations he’s up against.
As the case progresses, Schlichtmann faces numerous setbacks, including mounting legal fees, lack of evidence, and resistance from the defendants. Despite his efforts, the case ultimately ends in defeat for Schlichtmann and the families he represents. They are unable to prove causation between the contaminated water and the illnesses, and the jury rules in favor of the defendants.
The film explores themes of corporate negligence, the pursuit of justice, and the limitations of the legal system. It delves into the moral and ethical dilemmas faced by lawyers when representing clients in high-stakes cases, as well as the human cost of environmental pollution.
“A Civil Action” received critical acclaim for its compelling storytelling, powerful performances, and realistic portrayal of the legal process. John Travolta’s portrayal of Jan Schlichtmann earned him a Golden Globe nomination for Best Actor in a Drama. Overall, the film serves as a thought-provoking exploration of the complexities of the legal system and the challenges of seeking justice against powerful corporate interests.