description The Accused Overview
The Accused is a 1988 legal drama concerning a waitress, Sarah Tobias, who is brutally assaulted by multiple individuals. Following the attack, with assistance from District Attorney Katheryn Murphy, she pursues legal action against those involved in the crime and those who facilitated it. The film explores themes of sexual assault and the subsequent judicial process.
Sources: en.wikipedia.org
info The Accused Specifications
| Country | United States |
| Year | 1988 |
help The Accused FAQ
Is The Accused based on a true case?
The story is fictional, but it was inspired in part by the 1983 gang rape of Cheryl Araujo in a New Bedford, Massachusetts bar. The film changes the names, setting details and legal narrative.
Why are the onlookers prosecuted in The Accused?
Prosecutor Kathryn Murphy argues that the men who cheered and encouraged the assault were criminally responsible even though they did not physically attack Sarah Tobias. That second prosecution gives the 1988 film its central legal question.
Who plays Sarah Tobias and Kathryn Murphy?
Jodie Foster plays survivor Sarah Tobias, while Kelly McGillis plays prosecutor Kathryn Murphy. Foster won the Academy Award for Best Actress for the role.
Why does Sarah object to the first plea bargain?
The agreement reduces the attackers' exposure without requiring them to admit to rape, leaving Sarah feeling that the crime has been minimized. Her confrontation with Murphy drives the later case against the men who encouraged the assault.
explore Explore More
Similar to The Accused
See all arrow_forward
Reviews & Comments
Write a Review
Be the first to review
Share your thoughts with the community and help others make better decisions.
