Why do we go to college? How do we feel about the competition which occurs? And perhaps most importantly, do we become self-obsessed when we become swallowed up in the "race"? A young man from the midwest goes to Harvard law school on scholarship. The professor he most wants to study under teaches contract law. From the first day, when he leaves class vomiting because he realizes this class is far more pressured than he imagined, to the day he receives his grades in the mail (Yeah, that's how it used to be done), we follow the young man as he studies, goes to class, tries to engage in a love relationship, and prepares for his testing. This is a beautiful look at what life is really like for this young man and some of his student peers. It asks many questions but gives no pat answers. It illuminates a slice of time in a fascinating world, yet speaks to many universal and timeless ideas.Read full review
I remember liking this movie when it hit the theaters. My son is now in his junior year at a large university and his cousin is a 2d year law student at the same university. Talking with my son recently, I thought about The Paper Chase so I got the DVD to view it again and pass it on to my son. While it is a little dated, the basic story line involving the characters is still relavent, not just to law students, but to any serious university student. The personalities presented are pretty universal, and people in my son's group of friends fit the role of many of those students in the story. The issue of time being split between studies, fun and possible romantic involvement with the opposite sex is still out there. The battle of wills between students and their seasoned professors is still relavent. It was well acted, and the young Lindsey Wagner did a great job as Susan, the older and wiser girlfriend of the law student, "Mr. Hart." CAUTION: Possible spoiler ahead: While viewing it the second time 30+ years later, I recalled my frustration first time I saw The Paper Chase, with the lingering questions of Professor Kingsfield's possible knowledge of his daughter's involvement with his star pupil Hart, which was never fully acknowledged. The future of Susan and Hart's relationship was also left to the viewers imagination, as was the future of Hart's law career, who's determined view toward being a successful law student, and all that it entailed, was waverying under the influence of the beautiful, sexy, but somewhat cynical Susan. Now in my 50's, with some life experience behind me, I appreciate the lack of absolutes the movie left us with at it's conclusion. It is much like life, where the I's often aren't dotted and some Ts are left uncrossed.Read full review
John Houseman characterized as a law school professor puts him at his best. Lindsey Wagner and Timmothy Bottoms are superb in their roles as daughter and student in a compelling drama.
Verified purchase: Yes | Condition: Pre-owned
One of the best films I've ever seen. Houseman completely outdid himself, as did all the other players. No 'high conflict', and certainly not over-acted,... but just a slice out of a year in Harvard Law School which felt very real. A really smart movie.. and would to high heaven that movies like this were still being made.
Verified purchase: Yes | Condition: Pre-owned
Movie about Harvard law students dealing with a strict professor, study groups, one students romance with the professors daughter.
Verified purchase: Yes | Condition: Pre-owned
Current slide {CURRENT_SLIDE} of {TOTAL_SLIDES}- Best Selling in DVDs & Blu-ray Discs
Current slide {CURRENT_SLIDE} of {TOTAL_SLIDES}- Save on DVDs & Blu-ray Discs