“Newman’s Law” (1974)

Drama

Running Time: 98 minutes

Written by:  Anthony Wilson

Directed by: Richard T. Heffron

Featuring: George Peppard

Tagline: “Most cops play it by the book. Newman wrote his own!”

Critical Commentary

In the early 1970s, the crime genre in cinema was undergoing a renaissance, with gritty and often morally ambiguous stories capturing the zeitgeist of the era. Amid this cinematic landscape, “Newman’s Law,” directed by Richard T. Heffron and starring George Peppard in the titular role, stands as a forgotten gem that deserves a closer look. Released in 1974, the film blends elements of classic police procedural drama with a touch of neo-noir, delivering a suspenseful and character-driven narrative that continues to captivate audiences today.

Set in the seedy underbelly of Los Angeles, “Newman’s Law” explores the life of Vince Newman, a tough-as-nails police officer who isn’t afraid to bend the rules to bring down criminals. The film opens with a memorable quote that sets the tone for what’s to come: “Every man has his breaking point.” Newman is a man on the edge, driven by a relentless pursuit of justice and a deep-seated desire to make the world a safer place. George Peppard’s portrayal of Newman is a masterclass in gritty, no-nonsense acting, and it’s one of the film’s many strengths.

The film’s plot centres around Newman’s relentless quest to catch a ruthless gang of drug traffickers led by the enigmatic Tony Davilo, portrayed by the talented Roger Robinson. As Newman digs deeper into the criminal underworld, he finds himself facing a myriad of challenges, both personal and professional, which test the limits of his dedication to the job.

One of the film’s standout features is its depiction of the grim and grimy side of 1970s Los Angeles. Cinematographer Stevan Larner does an outstanding job capturing the city’s grit and grime, creating a visual atmosphere that oozes authenticity. The streets are dirty, the characters are morally ambiguous, and the tension is palpable. This gritty urban setting is a character in itself, providing the perfect backdrop for Newman’s morally ambiguous quest for justice.

The film’s supporting cast is equally impressive, with a slew of talented actors in key roles. When Newman enlists the help of a streetwise informant named Koko (played by Paul Koslo), the dynamics between the two characters add depth and nuance to the story. Koko’s character offers a counterbalance to Newman’s strict code of ethics, and their relationship evolves throughout the film in intriguing ways. Furthermore, the inclusion of Sally (Tricia O’Neil), a love interest for Newman, adds a layer of personal complexity to his character, showcasing his vulnerability and humanity beneath the tough exterior.

“Newman’s Law” is a character-driven narrative at its core, and George Peppard’s performance as Vince Newman is nothing short of exceptional. His portrayal of a world-weary cop who is willing to go to extreme lengths to achieve justice is both compelling and complex. As an actor, Peppard brings depth to his character, making Newman relatable despite his often morally questionable actions. It’s a testament to Peppard’s talent that he can elicit empathy from the audience even when playing a character who regularly bends the rules.

The film’s screenplay, written by Philip Friedman, is a masterclass in storytelling. It offers a balanced blend of suspense, action, and character development. The dialogue is sharp and engaging, and the plot unfolds in a way that keeps the audience hooked from start to finish. Newman’s relentless pursuit of justice is the driving force of the narrative, and the twists and turns along the way keep the viewer on the edge of their seat. The film doesn’t rely on excessive violence or over-the-top action sequences, but rather builds tension through well-crafted storytelling and character interactions.

“Newman’s Law” is also notable for its realistic depiction of police work. While it may not be as meticulously detailed as some modern police procedurals, the film provides a glimpse into the challenges and frustrations that law enforcement officers face daily. Newman’s dedication to his job, his battles with bureaucracy, and his efforts to maintain a sense of justice in an imperfect system are portrayed with authenticity.

The film’s score, composed by Lalo Schifrin, is another highlight. Schifrin’s music adds depth and emotion to the story, enhancing the film’s atmosphere and creating a powerful connection with the characters. The score’s blend of jazzy and orchestral elements underscores the film’s neo-noir sensibilities and complements the urban landscape of 1970s Los Angeles.

One of the aspects that sets “Newman’s Law” apart from other crime dramas of the era is its exploration of moral ambiguity. The film’s central theme revolves around the idea that even those sworn to uphold the law may find themselves in situations where the lines between right and wrong blur. Newman is not a black-and-white character; he operates in a morally gray area, and his choices often come with consequences. This moral complexity adds depth and intrigue to the narrative and makes the film a thought-provoking exploration of justice, ethics, and the human condition.

The film’s pacing is deliberate, allowing for character development and tension to build gradually. This approach may feel slow to viewers accustomed to today’s fast-paced action films, but it pays off in terms of narrative depth and emotional investment. “Newman’s Law” is a film that rewards patience and engagement with its characters and story.

While “Newman’s Law” has many strengths, it is not without its flaws. Some viewers may find the film’s treatment of female characters somewhat dated, as they often serve as romantic interests or damsels in distress. Additionally, the film’s portrayal of certain ethnic groups may be seen as stereotypical and insensitive by contemporary standards, reflecting the biases of its time.

As we delve deeper into the enduring appeal of “Newman’s Law,” it’s important to recognize the film’s legacy and its place within the broader context of 1970s crime cinema.

During the 1970s, American cinema underwent a significant shift, particularly in the crime genre. Films of this era often reflected the societal disillusionment and moral complexity prevalent at the time. The so-called “New Hollywood” movement saw filmmakers and studios breaking away from conventional storytelling and embracing grittier, more realistic narratives. “Newman’s Law” fits snugly into this context, as it embodies the spirit of the era’s crime cinema.

One of the film’s notable aspects is its portrayal of an antiheroic protagonist. Vince Newman is a complex character who doesn’t conform to the typical image of an upright, law-abiding police officer. Instead, he operates in a moral gray area, bending the rules to achieve his version of justice. This characterization mirrors the general cynicism and skepticism that were pervasive in the 1970s. The film highlights the idea that individuals must sometimes navigate ambiguous ethical terrain to make a difference. This portrayal of the flawed hero resonated with audiences of the time and continues to captivate those who appreciate morally complex characters.

“Newman’s Law” also draws inspiration from the classic noir tradition while injecting it with a contemporary sensibility. The neo-noir elements, such as the gritty urban setting and morally compromised characters, align the film with a broader trend in 1970s cinema, where filmmakers revisited and reinterpreted the classic film noir style. By doing so, “Newman’s Law” pays homage to the genre’s roots while also infusing it with a contemporary edge that reflects the concerns and sensibilities of its era.

The film’s portrayal of Los Angeles as a city plagued by crime and corruption adds depth to the narrative. While the city’s image as a sun-soaked paradise is a common one, “Newman’s Law” peels back the layers to reveal the underbelly of urban life, where crime and danger lurk around every corner. This portrayal aligns with the era’s exploration of urban decay and social issues, offering a stark contrast to the more idealized depictions of Los Angeles often seen in film.

In addition to its examination of morality, “Newman’s Law” explores the concept of justice in a flawed system. The character of Newman is a symbol of an individual’s struggle to maintain a sense of morality and ethics within a bureaucratic and often corrupt institution. His relentless pursuit of justice, even when faced with systemic obstacles, resonates with viewers who may question the integrity of institutions in their own lives. This theme of battling against a system that is sometimes compromised is a timeless one, making “Newman’s Law” a film with lasting relevance.

The film also explores the notion of redemption and the potential for personal transformation. Despite his many flaws, Newman’s character undergoes a transformation throughout the narrative, allowing for moments of growth and introspection. This aspect of the story reinforces the idea that even in a world filled with moral ambiguity, individuals can find a path towards redemption and self-discovery.

“Newman’s Law” is further enriched by its supporting cast, who deliver compelling performances that add depth to the narrative. Paul Koslo as Koko is a standout, providing a nuanced portrayal of a streetwise informant whose moral compass is as complex as Newman’s. The relationship between Koko and Newman underscores the film’s themes of moral ambiguity and human connection.

The film’s exploration of the blurred lines between law enforcement and criminality is another aspect that sets it apart. “Newman’s Law” challenges the conventional notion of good guys versus bad guys by depicting the police force as an institution with its own ethical ambiguities. This nuance in character dynamics adds layers of complexity to the narrative, inviting the audience to consider the shades of gray within the criminal justice system.

In terms of visual storytelling, “Newman’s Law” shines through its evocative cinematography by Stevan Larner. The film captures the gritty essence of 1970s Los Angeles, using its urban landscape to enhance the narrative. Larner’s work imbues the film with a sense of authenticity and atmosphere, transporting the viewer to the city’s dark underbelly.

Lalo Schifrin’s score, with its mix of jazz and orchestral elements, is a defining feature of the film’s atmosphere. The music not only complements the visual aesthetics but also serves as a mood enhancer, evoking the feelings of suspense and intrigue central to the narrative. Schifrin’s contribution to the film’s ambiance is indispensable, making his score a vital element of “Newman’s Law.”

While “Newman’s Law” is certainly a testament to the 1970s crime cinema and its enduring appeal, it’s important to acknowledge that the film is not without its limitations. Some elements of the film may be viewed as dated by today’s standards. The portrayal of female characters, for instance, is somewhat one-dimensional, with women often serving as romantic interests or objects of desire. In this regard, the film reflects the gender norms of its time and the limited roles available for women in the genre.

Additionally, “Newman’s Law” features elements that some may find racially insensitive. The portrayal of certain ethnic groups leans into stereotypes that were prevalent in the 1970s and are rightfully criticized today. It’s crucial to view these aspects of the film within the context of its time and recognize the progress that has been made in the representation of marginalized groups in cinema.

“Newman’s Law” (1974) is a forgotten gem of 70s crime cinema that deserves a fresh look. Its combination of gritty urban realism, a morally complex protagonist, and a well-crafted screenplay makes it a compelling and thought-provoking experience. George Peppard’s performance as Vince Newman is a standout, and the film’s supporting cast, screenplay, and score all contribute to its enduring appeal. Despite some dated elements, the film’s exploration of moral ambiguity and the pursuit of justice resonates with audiences to this day. If you’re a fan of classic crime dramas and neo-noir, “Newman’s Law” is a film well worth rediscovering.

Technical Commentary

Video

Presented in its original aspect ratio of 1.85:1, encoded with MPEG-4 AVC and granted a 1080p transfer. The release is sourced from a recent, very good new 2K master. Because of the nature of the original cinematography there are some noticeable density and clarity fluctuations. Depth can also be impacted, even during well-lit footage, so some nuances can appear underexposed. However, it is pretty easy to tell that in some areas fine nuances are just not optimal, and this could be an inherited limitation.

Audio

There is only one standard audio track on this Blu-ray release: English DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0. Optional English SDH subtitles are provided for the main feature. 

Special Features

• 1080p High-definition presentation on Blu-ray from a 2K scan
• Audio Commentary by film historian Steve Mitchell and producer/screenwriter Cyrus Voris
• Interview with director Jeff Burr on the career of director Richard T. Heffron
• Radio Spots
• Theatrical Trailer