Primal Fear

Primal Fear
1996
★★★★☆ 7.7/10
⏱️ 131 min
📅 Released
🌐 EN
CrimeDramaMysteryThriller
Defense attorney Martin Vail takes on jobs for money and prestige rather than any sense of the greater good. His latest case involves an altar boy, accused of brutally murdering the archbishop of Chicago. Vail finds himself up against his ex-pupil and ex-lover, but as the case progresses and the Church's dark secrets are revealed, Vail finds that what appeared a simple case takes on a darker, more dangerous aspect.

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User Reviews

JPV852
★ 7/10
September 22, 2025
Solid enough court room crime drama featuring good performances all around but especially Edward Norton in his breakout role. Loved the music and score and found myself entertained by the twisted murder. I think it could've been better but still a good film. **3.5/5**
JPV852
★ 7/10
September 22, 2025
Solid enough court room crime drama featuring good performances all around but especially Edward Norton in his breakout role. Loved the music and score and found myself entertained by the twisted murder. I think it could've been better but still a good film. **3.5/5**
JPV852
★ 7/10
September 22, 2025
Solid enough court room crime drama featuring good performances all around but especially Edward Norton in his breakout role. Loved the music and score and found myself entertained by the twisted murder. I think it could've been better but still a good film. **3.5/5**

Crew

Director
Gregory Hoblit
Writer
Steve Shagan, Ann Biderman
Producer
Hawk Koch, Gary Lucchesi

Production

Paramount Pictures, Rysher Entertainment

Keywords

chicago, illinoisdeath penaltychild abusecorruptionbased on novel or bookcourt casecourtpsychopathbishopmanipulation