Adam's Rib

Main Plot

Adam's Rib follows the story of married lawyers Adam and Amanda Bonner, who find themselves on opposite sides of a high-profile case. The case involves a woman who shoots her unfaithful husband, and Amanda believes in her right to defend the accused, while Adam, representing the prosecution, argues for justice. As the trial unfolds, the couple's professional rivalry spills over into their personal lives, leading to comedic and dramatic tensions. The courtroom serves as a battleground for their differing views on gender roles and justice, highlighting societal expectations of men and women. Throughout the trial, both Adam and Amanda grapple with their own beliefs and the implications of their arguments, ultimately testing the strength of their marriage and their commitment to their respective ideals. The film blends humor and social commentary, exploring themes of love, equality, and the complexities of relationships.

Characters

• Spencer Tracy plays Adam Bonner, a prosecutor whose marriage is tested when his wife defends a woman he's prosecuting for shooting her husband.
• Katharine Hepburn plays Amanda Bonner, a defense attorney who opposes her husband in court, challenging gender biases in a high-profile case.
• Judy Holliday plays Doris Attinger, a woman on trial for shooting her unfaithful husband, central to the courtroom drama and comedic tension between the lead characters.

Ending Explained

In Adam's Rib, the climax unfolds during the courtroom trial of a woman who shot her unfaithful husband. The film's central conflict revolves around the differing perspectives of a married couple, both lawyers, who find themselves on opposing sides of the case. As the trial progresses, the female defendant's motivations and the complexities of gender roles are explored, highlighting the societal expectations placed on women. In the ending, the jury acquits the defendant, reflecting a shift in societal attitudes towards women's rights and self-defense. This verdict serves as a resolution to the main conflict, showcasing the evolving dynamics between men and women in both the legal system and personal relationships. The couple, initially at odds due to their professional rivalry, ultimately reconciles their differences, realizing that their love and partnership can withstand external pressures. The film concludes with a sense of hope and progress, as the characters embrace a more egalitarian view of marriage and gender roles. The resolution not only addresses the immediate legal case but also reinforces the overarching narrative of equality and mutual respect, leaving the audience with a sense of optimism about the future of relationships and societal norms.