The Accused 1988
"The first scream was for help. The second is for justice."
In Jonathan Kaplan's gripping crime drama *The Accused (1988)*, Jodie Foster delivers a powerhouse performance as Sarah Tobias, a young woman whose life unravels after a night of violence leaves her traumatized.
Director: Jonathan Kaplan
Cast
Jodie Foster
Sarah Tobias
Kelly McGillis
Kathryn Murphy
Bernie Coulson
Ken Joyce
Leo Rossi
Cliff 'Scorpion' Albrect
Ann Hearn
Sally Fraser
Carmen Argenziano
D.A. Paul Rudolph
Steve Antin
Bob Joiner
Tom O'Brien
Larry
Peter Van Norden
Attorney Paulsen
Terry David Mulligan
Lieutenant Duncan
Frequently Asked Questions
What is The Accused (1988) about?
*The Accused (1988)* follows Sarah Tobias, a young woman who endures a horrific assault in a bar, only to face further humiliation when the legal system offers her attackers light sentences. Determined to fight for consequences, Sarah allies with a determined DA to challenge the bystanders who enabled the crime, forcing everyone to confront the cost of complicity.
Who directed The Accused?
The Accused was directed by Jonathan Kaplan, whose work often explores themes of justice and moral conflict in high-pressure settings.
Who stars in The Accused?
The film stars Jodie Foster as Sarah Tobias, with Kelly McGillis as District Attorney Kathryn Murphy, supported by Bernie Coulson, Leo Rossi, and Carmen Argenziano.
Is The Accused (1988) worth watching?
While not rated on IMDb, *The Accused (1988)* remains a critically praised drama, especially for Jodie Foster's Oscar-winning performance. Its gripping narrative and social themes make it compelling for fans of intense courtroom films, though its heavy subject matter demands emotional readiness.
How long is The Accused?
*The Accused (1988)* has a runtime of 111 minutes.
🎥 Trailer
About The Accused (1988) — Jodie Foster's Powerful Courtroom Drama on Survival and Justice
In Jonathan Kaplan's gripping crime drama *The Accused (1988)*, Jodie Foster delivers a powerhouse performance as Sarah Tobias, a young woman whose life unravels after a night of violence leaves her traumatized. After a brutal assault in a bar—witnessed and even cheered on by strangers—Justice seems unlikely when the rapists receive shockingly lenient sentences. District Attorney Kathryn Murphy (Kelly McGillis) initially struggles to balance legal constraints with moral duty, but Sarah refuses to accept silence as justice. As the courtroom battle intensifies, *The Accused (1988)* becomes a raw exploration of victimhood, societal apathy, and the fight to reclaim agency in a system stacked against healing.
With its unflinching portrayal of trauma and resilience, the film blends courtroom tension with emotional depth, anchored by Foster's unforgettable portrayal. The stark contrast between the indifference of onlookers and Sarah's relentless pursuit of accountability makes this more than just a legal drama—it's a searing indictment of how society often fails the vulnerable while demanding their silence.
