Trial by film Cases and Causes in Popular Legal Culture

In surveys, respondents indicate being influenced by works of popular culture in what they think about the law. Lawyers are often concerned about a negative image. Determining content and effect of films and television is complicated by the number of productions and the diversity of audiences. However, there seems to be a conservative streak. Stories need to be understandable to a broad audience, they should not deviate too much from people’s experiences and existing cultural patterns. Also, writers and directors often aim at recognition by following in the footsteps of other artists. Yet, a simple repetition would not be entertaining, therefore products must be varied. Content creators often resort to drawing on cases that are not yet settled in the court of public opinion, or on causes that are debated in society and will attract an audience. In addition, there is a strong tradition of “social issue dramas” seeking to sway the audience in favour of reforms. Thus, the audience is presented with the possibility of a different reality or invited to contribute to legal reform. In this way, works of popular legal culture – and “Trial by Film” – are a conservative force and a force for incremental change as well.