A CIVIL ACTION is another feather in the cap for John Travolta, still enjoying his successful career resurgence following PULP FICTION. This time around he's a crusading injury lawyer taking on the toughest case of his life, against a firm accusing of polluting the local waterways and causing cancer in the local townsfolk. Based on a true story, this is a slow-burning, realistic examination of the American justice system and all of the characters it involves. Travolta is on strong, manic form here, ably supported by a supporting cast that includes William H. Macy, John Lithgow and a stand-out Robert Duvall whose mannerisms are excellent. I particularly liked the downbeat ending complete with an appropriately fitting coda.
Review of A Civil Action
