Watch Trial of John Peter Zenger

The Trial of John Peter Zenger is a 1950 historical drama film that follows the real-life trial of John Peter Zenger, a printer who was charged with seditious libel in 1735 for publishing articles critical of New York Governor William Cosby. The film stars Eddie Albert as Andrew Hamilton, the Philadelphia lawyer who defended Zenger in court, and Murray Matheson as Zenger. The movie begins with Zenger's arrest and follows his journey from jail time to his trial, where Hamilton makes a plea for the freedom of the press.

The Trial of John Peter Zenger is an intelligent and engaging drama, directed by Cyrus H. Arnold and Spencer Gordon Bennet. The film stays historically accurate throughout and is very educational, providing a glimpse into colonial American times when people could be punished for speaking out against their rulers.

One of the most impressive things about The Trial of John Peter Zenger is how well it portrays the legal proceedings of the day. The filmmakers made sure to include all of the customs and protocols that were followed during a trial in the 1700s, including the use of Latin phrases, the wearing of wigs, and the wearing of black robes by the judges.

The movie is primarily a courtroom drama, and the tension is palpable as the trial progresses. It is clear that Zenger's fate hangs in the balance as the judge and jury listen to the evidence against him. Murray Matheson is excellent in the role of Zenger, portraying both his fear and his determination as he faces his accusers.

Eddie Albert is also great in his role as Andrew Hamilton. Hamilton is a likeable and sympathetic character, and Albert makes him both charming and intelligent. His rousing speech about the importance of a free press still resonates today, and it is impossible not to feel moved by his words.

The Trial of John Peter Zenger is a slow-burn movie that takes its time with its story. The filmmakers know that the trial itself is the most important part of the story, and they let it play out without any unnecessary distractions. This may not be everyone's cup of tea, but those who appreciate a carefully crafted drama will enjoy this film.

The movie features some beautiful cinematography, highlighting the historical locations that the story takes place in. The streets of colonial New York City are gorgeously recreated, and the costumes are equally impressive. The attention to detail is impressive, and it is clear that the filmmakers wanted to create an authentic and historically accurate portrayal of the time and place.

In conclusion, The Trial of John Peter Zenger is a must-watch for anyone interested in American history, especially if you want to learn more about the history of the press in America. The movie is well-acted, beautifully shot, and historically accurate. It reminds us of the importance of free speech and the difficult journey that we have taken to get to where we are today.

Trial of John Peter Zenger is a 2008 drama with a runtime of 59 minutes.