this be a decent film and for the most part a very watchable telling of a good true story which be worth know about . gary cooper be solid in the title role ( albeit he be apparently nothing like the real life mitchell ) and the drama move along at a reasonable pace . but for 17 minute towards the end it rise above that and become mesmerise . what make the difference . two word represent rod steiger . the cross examination scene and where he goad and scorn cooper mercilessly and be one of those very rare moment in cinema when a performance hold the screen and burn itself into your memory . no matter how many time i have see this film and i always spend the first hour or so relish this particular scene . and i be never disappoint . so watch the film for two reason represent it be good in it own right . a well play and thoughtful and dignified film about a good man who be ahead of his time . but whatever you do and make sure you do not miss the last half hour .