This is an excellent ABC docu-drama made two years after the perjury trial against Joh Bjelke-Petersen. It was based on extensive research and interviews with 8 out of the 12 jurors, and as such is an worthwhile educational resource, on the workings and sometimes injustices of the Australian legal system. When it was made it wasn't yet illegal for jurors to talk about the trial afterwards, and even so the ABC was publicly warned by the Attorney-General's Department about the possible consequences (they decided not to press charges). The class I watched it with was enthralled by the case, and though I suspect the film was low-budget, the writing, direction and acting made up for this. Australians should recognise some of the more famous actors from it, such as John Howard and John Jarrat. Unfortunately Joh's Jury is hard to come by, although school, university and state libraries might be worth a try. In addition, more information about the trial and subsequent events can be found by searching newspapers from around the time (Sep 24 - Nov 9 1991). Overall an insightful examination of jury-room politics, and an exceptional movie in its own right.
Add a Review
-
ladymidath29 March 2019I saw this years ago when it first came out and I found it to be an intelligent and insightful look at how the jury system can be rigged. The characters were fascinating and seeing how one person was able to derail the other members of the jury was eye opening. Penny Cook, John Jarrat along with the rest of the cast were spot on. Sadly I have not been able to find this film because I would love to watch it again. I would recommend this film very highly, especially to people who love Australian films.