SYNOPSIS

Eleven-year-old Mark Sway is torn between what he knows and what he can never tell. A hitman will kill Mark if the boy reveals what he knows about a mob murder. An ambitious federal prosecutor will keep pushing until Mark tells all. Now, Mark is a piece in a deadly game, and his only ally is a brave lawyer who risks her career, and unexpectedly, her life, for him.

CINDIE SAYS:

The casting is one of the film’s triumphs. Susan Sarandon’s role as Reggie Love, the determined lawyer with a compassionate heart, earned her an Academy Award nomination for Best Actress. It was a departure from her previous roles and added nuance to her career, as she deftly portrayed both strength and vulnerability. Tommy Lee Jones, as the aggressive prosecutor “Reverend” Roy Foltrigg, plays a perfect foil to Sarandon’s character, adding to the film’s tension with his mix of humor and intimidation. Their dynamic performances create an engrossing clash between justice and the law, making The Client not only a thriller but also a character-driven drama.

One fascinating fact for film fans is the remarkable story behind Brad Renfro’s casting. Renfro, a newcomer with no prior acting experience, was discovered in his hometown of Knoxville, Tennessee, by casting director Mali Finn, who was scouting for an authentic Southern boy to play Mark. His raw talent and real-life grit gave the character an undeniable authenticity, resonating deeply with audiences. Despite his young age, Renfro held his own against industry heavyweights, delivering a breakout performance that left a lasting impression on Hollywood.