A Case of Deadly Force 1986
A gripping 1986 TV movie drama that exposes a chilling 1970s cover-up, *A Case of Deadly Force* dives into the brutal truth behind a police shooting in Boston.
Director: Michael Miller
Cast
Frequently Asked Questions
What is A Case of Deadly Force (1986) about?
*A Case of Deadly Force* is a fact-based drama inspired by a 1975 Boston shooting where two tactical officers claimed self-defense after killing an unarmed Black man. When the official investigation declares the shooting justified, the victim's widow hires a former cop to uncover the truth, exposing a web of lies and systemic injustice.
Who directed A Case of Deadly Force?
Michael Miller directed *A Case of Deadly Force*. Known for his work in television dramas, Miller brings a grounded, tension-filled approach to this true-crime story.
Who stars in A Case of Deadly Force?
The film features Richard Crenna as the investigator, alongside John Shea, Lorraine Toussaint, Francis X. McCarthy, and Tate Donovan.
Is A Case of Deadly Force (1986) worth watching?
While not rated on IMDb, *A Case of Deadly Force* stands out as a gripping drama rooted in real events, with strong performances and a timely exploration of racial injustice. Its courtroom and investigative tension make it compelling for fans of crime films and historical dramas.
How long is A Case of Deadly Force?
The runtime for *A Case of Deadly Force* is 95 minutes.
About A Case of Deadly Force (1986) — A True Story of Justice and Institutional Betrayal
A gripping 1986 TV movie drama that exposes a chilling 1970s cover-up, *A Case of Deadly Force* dives into the brutal truth behind a police shooting in Boston. Directed by Michael Miller, this fact-based story follows the journey of a grieving widow who refuses to accept the official narrative after her unarmed husband is gunned down by tactical officers. With the city's institutions stacked against her, she enlists a determined former cop to unravel the web of lies, revealing a pattern of deadly force used to justify racial injustice. The film blends courtroom tension with raw emotional stakes, capturing the atmosphere of late-20th-century America where trust in law enforcement was often tested.
Richard Crenna leads the cast as the investigator navigating a system rigged against the truth, supported by standout performances from John Shea and Lorraine Toussaint. As the widow's relentless pursuit of justice collides with systemic bias, the movie delivers a powerful critique of institutional accountability. With its sharp direction and compelling narrative, *A Case of Deadly Force (1986)* remains a haunting reminder of the battles fought—and often lost—when challenging authority.