The Accused

Director: Jonathan Kaplan
Cast: Kelly McGillis, Jodie Foster
Genre: Crime/Drama 1988
Running time: 110 mins.
Rating:★★★★

A hard-living, fiercely independent Sarah Tobias (Jodie Foster), who is gang-raped in the back of a neighborhood bar. But that is only the beginning of her ordeal. Now Sarah finds herself battling the legal system, not once but twice as she and her attorney (Kelly McGillis) go after both her attackers and the onlookers whose cheering fueled and encouraged the assault.

You never witness the rape. All you see is a very scared woman (Jodie Foster), barefooted and a torn shirt, running from the bar. A woman who has no supportive family members to turn to and a record. Then bringing in a lawyer (Kelly McGillis) who does like to lose a case, but isn't sure she has enough evidence, the audience feels as vulnerable and angry as Foster's character. As a woman, I feel very uncomfortable because its one of my biggest fears. Indeed, it differs because Foster's character has a record and not so reliable reputation, no woman should have to go through this sort of violation!

But you hear and see the truth, it is more terrifying than one can imagine! During the second trial, before deliberation, you wonder is it enough to save her? When you think there is no hope or anyone to believe in a victim thats when some peace and justice does come. A very heart wrenching and intense film! And you don't need to be a woman to feel violated yourself, while watching it!