I first saw this film not knowing who Grisham was, having never read any of his novels or seen any of their adaptations. I wasn't expecting much and I got far more than I could have ever hoped for. From the very first scenes, the film hits you between the eyes with shocking scenes that are horrifying yet at the same time emotional. It tackles a number of sensitive issues at the same time - racism, rape, murder, vigilatism, sexual equality to name a few - something which few films do and even fewer manage to do successfully. The cast are excellent, the characters believable and well portrayed and the storyline, although extreme, is convincing and could well be a true story. Although the outcome is slightly predictable, it is still a fascinating and gripping story that will suck you in, churn you up and spit you out again and will stay with you for a long time to come.