The Trial of the Chicago 7 (2020) is a historical legal drama directed by Aaron Sorkin, who also wrote the screenplay. The film recounts the real-life events surrounding the trial of seven anti-Vietnam War activists who were charged with conspiracy and incitement to riot following the 1968 Democratic National Convention in Chicago. Here’s a detailed review of the film:

Plot Summary

The Trial of the Chicago 7 dramatizes the trial and political upheaval of 1968, focusing on the group of activists who were charged with plotting to incite a riot during the Democratic National Convention. The film centers on the key figures involved, including Abbie Hoffman (Sacha Baron Cohen), Jerry Rubin (Jeremy Strong), Tom Hayden (Eddie Redmayne), and Bobby Seale (Yahya Abdul-Mateen II), as well as their legal defense led by William Kunstler (Mark Rylance) and Leonard Weinglass (Ben Shenkman). The trial becomes a highly publicized and politically charged spectacle, revealing the tensions between the government, the counterculture movement, and the legal system.

Key Strengths

1. Screenplay and Dialogue:
   • Aaron Sorkin’s screenplay is sharp, engaging, and rich in historical and political context. Known for his rapid-fire dialogue and compelling storytelling, Sorkin delivers a script that effectively balances legal drama with historical commentary. The film’s dialogue is both insightful and powerful, capturing the tensions of the era.
2. Performances:
   • The cast delivers strong performances across the board. Sacha Baron Cohen and Jeremy Strong stand out for their portrayals of Abbie Hoffman and Jerry Rubin, respectively, infusing their characters with charisma and depth. Eddie Redmayne and Yahya Abdul-Mateen II also provide compelling performances as Tom Hayden and Bobby Seale. Mark Rylance is particularly noteworthy as the principled defense attorney William Kunstler.
3. Historical Context:
   • The film provides a detailed and engaging look at a pivotal moment in American history. It effectively captures the social and political climate of the late 1960s, highlighting issues of government overreach, civil rights, and protest.
4. Direction and Pacing:
   • Sorkin’s direction ensures that the film maintains a brisk pace and keeps viewers engaged. The courtroom scenes are particularly intense, and the film’s structure—shifting between the trial and flashbacks of the events leading up to it—adds depth to the narrative.
5. Emotional Impact:
   • The film resonates emotionally, particularly in its depiction of the struggles faced by the defendants and their attorneys. It effectively conveys the sense of injustice and the personal stakes involved in the trial.

Weaknesses

1. Historical Accuracy:
   • While the film is based on real events, some liberties are taken with historical details for dramatic effect. Certain portrayals and events are simplified or adjusted, which might lead to questions about the film’s accuracy among history buffs.
2. Character Depth:
   • Although the film provides strong performances, some characters, especially the lesser-known defendants, may not receive as much development. The focus is often on the most prominent figures and dramatic elements, which can lead to a lack of depth for other characters.
3. Political Bias:
   • The film’s portrayal of the trial and its participants is presented from a specific perspective, which might be seen as favoring the defendants and their viewpoints. This could affect viewers who are looking for a more balanced or nuanced depiction of the historical events.
4. Complexity of Legal Issues:
   • The film, while engaging, might simplify some of the complex legal and political issues involved. The courtroom drama is compelling, but it may not fully capture the intricacies of the trial for viewers unfamiliar with the case.

Conclusion

The Trial of the Chicago 7 is a gripping and thought-provoking film that excels in its portrayal of a significant historical event. Aaron Sorkin’s sharp writing, strong performances, and effective direction make for a compelling legal drama that resonates with contemporary themes of justice and political activism. While the film takes some liberties with historical accuracy and simplifies complex legal issues, it successfully captures the spirit of the era and provides an emotional and engaging viewing experience. For those interested in historical dramas or legal thrillers, The Trial of the Chicago 7 is a powerful and relevant film.