Primal Fear

1996 · 2h10 · Film

Directed by Gregory Hoblit

Starring Richard Gere, Laura Linney, Edward Norton, John Mahoney, Alfre Woodard, Frances McDormand, Terry O'Quinn, Andre Braugher, Steven Bauer, Joe Spano

Ideal when you feel… Stressed Angry Sad / low

Defense attorney Martin Vail takes on jobs for money and prestige rather than any sense of the greater good. His latest case involves an altar boy, accused of brutally murdering the archbishop of Chicago. Vail finds himself up against his ex-pupil and ex-lover, but as the case progresses and the Church's dark secrets are revealed, Vail finds that what appeared a simple case takes on a darker, more dangerous aspect.

Original language

English

Screenplay

Steve Shagan, Ann Biderman, William Diehl

Music

James Newton Howard

Cinematography

Michael Chapman

Cast

John Mahoney, Alfre Woodard, Frances McDormand, Terry O'Quinn, Andre Braugher, Steven Bauer, Joe Spano, Tony Plana, Stanley Anderson

Updated July 22, 2026

Trailer

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