Barry Reed’s bestselling novel of a medical negligence lawsuit fought by a seemingly washed-up lawyer was turned into an award-winning film and here, Margaret May Hobbs has created a gripping and compelling script which is hugely enjoyable.
Vincent Pirillo as Moe Katz and Jason Merrells as Frank Galvin in The Verdict | Photo © Mat Larkin
Frank Galvin has a last chance to redeem himself. Assigned to an open-and-shut medical malpractice case that no one thinks he can win, he finds himself fighting for justice against the unforgiving medical establishment, believing that the cover-up by the doctors has robbed a young mother of her future.
Jason Merrells (Galvin) holds the centre of the story with ease, whilst it begins slowly the story develops as does his resolve for justice for the patient and her family.
Hardly ever leaving the stage, Merrells gives Galvin an inner strength in spite of the task ahead of him.
The whole cast are strong and Vincent Pirillo as Galvin’s long-standing mentor Moe Katz ensure the production is in very safe hands.
The overriding and emerging corruption of the case twists and turns constantly against the filmic design.
The arrival of Holly Jackson Walters, excellent in the cameo of Natalie Stampanatto is a poignant moment of true power.
There are no spoilers here, much discussion was being had in the interval and the sense of audience engagement with the piece was audible with the much-anticipated verdict.
This a strong and committed production, the many multi roles are defined with great skill.
Directed and designed by Michael Lunney, who also plays Eugene Meehan and Daniel Jonathan Crowley MD, it is clearly a respectful and successful adaption of a novel.
Moreover, Margaret May Hobbs captures the posturing of power and the humour of the underdog with both powerful exchanges of dialogue and moments of humour that allows each character to be rounded and full in turn giving a strong cast the chance to get to grips with the story.
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Reviewer: Petra Rose Alexander
