Trial and Error

Trial and Error, directed by James Hill, is a British black-and-white comedy-drama released in the year 1962. With a stunning cast that includes the likes of Peter Sellers, Richard Attenborough and Beryl Reid, this film involves an intricate mixture of satire, wit and a provocative examination of a deeply flawed justice system.

In the movie, Peter Sellers masterfully tackles the character of Wilfrid, a bumbling, nigh incompetent barrister who efficiently turns courtroom procedures into a comedy of errors. Sellers, known for his chameleon like knack of slipping into any character, is impressive as the timid, stuttering lawyer. Despite his questionable competence in the court, his character is endearingly earnest and resolute – his appeal lying in his very ineptness.

Richard Attenborough, on the other hand, brilliantly portrays a hard-nosed businessman named Charles. Faced with a self-created mess that threatens to ruin all he holds dear, Charles’s character embarks on a journey of realisation and redemption. Attenborough's performance is incredibly nuanced, his character being both humorous and tragic at the same time.

Beryl Reid, playing Charles's wife Angie, brings a character to life who manages to hold her ground amid the chaos caused by her husband's questionable business dealings. Angie's character is often misguided, yet her love for Charles and her hope for a better future for their family persist. All three leads deliver captivating, dynamic performances that add layers of depth to their respective roles.

The key theme of Trial and Error revolves around justice and the complicated, often manipulative systems that dictate its course. It challenges the ideas of legality and morality, constantly blurring the line between the two. The script, written by Pierre Rouve, is refreshingly inventive, and does an excellent job of keeping audiences at the edge of their seats. Rouve's sharp observation is pronounced in his shrewd caricature of the judicial system, which he renders both funny and thought-provoking. The dialogue is cleverly written, often filled with biting satire and wit that’s pointedly insightful.

The setting of the movie mirrors the black-and-white visuals with a small, colorless town where everybody knows everyone else. This becomes the perfect setting for amplifying the chaos that ensues within the courtroom. The cinematography effectively uses the backdrop of ordinary daily life to contrast with the shaken lives of the characters.

Besides the main players, a spectacular performance by David Lodge as Albert the gravedigger deserves a mention. His character adds a unique dimension to the film. He depicts a wise, street-smart individual who, in contrast to Wilfrid, knows how to maneuver within the system.

Among the host of factors that make this movie an intriguing watch, the background score is notably mention-worthy. It is masterfully tied to the film's narrative, shifting from light and whimsical to hauntingly somber, mirroring the film's fluidity between humour and tension.

On a broader level, Peter Sellers's portrayal of Wilfrid is a satirical commentary on the legal profession - a profession that often prioritizes winning over truth. Yet, what stands out in Wilfrid is his low-key heroism, his quiet resilience in the face of overwhelming odds.

Trial and Error is, therefore, not just an entertaining comedy; it uses humor as a lens to probe deeper, broaching themes of corruption, justice and human failings. It succeeds in delivering a socio-political commentary about the flawed justice system, while maintaining its humorous undertone.

At its core, “Trial and Error” is a film about the pursuit of justice, and how individuals navigate this pursuit within a system that is not always fair. Its satirical take on the justice system, combined with the compelling performances of an ensemble cast, make it a must-watch for fans of comedy-dramas. The film's excellent scriptwriting, striking performances and thought-provoking themes make it a classic addition to Britain's cinema history.