Juror 8


Juror 8 is a 2019 South Korean legal drama film written and directed by Hong Seung-wan. Loosely based on the 1957 American film 12 Angry Men, the film depicts South Korea’s first citizen participation trial, in which eight ordinary jurors are drawn into an unexpected debate over guilt and justice when a seemingly settled murder case takes an unforeseen turn. The ensemble cast includes Moon So-ri, Park Hyung-sik, Baek Soo-jang, Cha Mi-kyung, Yoon Kyung-ho, Seo Jeong-yeon, Jo Han-chul, Kim Hong-pa, and Cho Soo-hyang. It was released in South Korea on May 15, 2019.

Synopsis

In 2008, South Korea holds its first ever citizen participation trial. Eight ordinary individuals from diverse backgrounds are selected to serve as jurors in a case that has drawn widespread public attention. The case appears straightforward: a murder supported by clear evidence, witness testimony, and a confession, with sentencing seemingly the only issue remaining. However, when the defendant unexpectedly retracts the confession and denies the charges, the jury is required to deliberate on guilt or innocence instead.
The presiding judge, Joon-gyeom, known for her strict adherence to principle, attempts to conduct the trial efficiently and according to procedure despite the unprecedented involvement of lay citizens. As the proceedings continue, persistent questioning and challenges from the jurors, particularly Juror No. 8 Nam-woo, begin to influence the course of the trial, leading it in unanticipated directions. The trial becomes a test of the justice system's first experiment with public participation, as ordinary citizens confront an extraordinary responsibility.

Cast

The first script reading took place on June 29, 2018. Principal photography began on July 7, 2018 and filming wrapped up on September 22, 2018.

Reception

As of 26 May 2019, the film reached a total of 270,270 admissions grossing $1,831,951 in revenue.

Awards and nominations