Reversal of Fortune

| 1990

Directed by: Barbet Schroeder

Movie poster for Reversal of Fortune (1990)

Main Plot

Reversal of Fortune revolves around the real-life case of Claus von Bülow, who is accused of attempting to murder his wealthy wife, Sunny. The story unfolds through the perspective of Alan Dershowitz, a prominent attorney who takes on Claus's defense. As Dershowitz delves into the complexities of the case, he uncovers a web of family secrets, financial troubles, and conflicting testimonies. The film explores themes of morality, justice, and the intricacies of the legal system, as Dershowitz navigates the challenges of defending a man who appears to be guilty in the eyes of the public. Throughout the investigation, the narrative raises questions about truth and perception, ultimately leading to a deeper understanding of the events surrounding the incident and the motivations of those involved.

Characters

  • Jeremy Irons plays Claus von Bülow, a wealthy socialite accused of attempting to murder his wife, Sunny. His lawyer fights to overturn his conviction.
  • Glenn Close plays Sunny von Bülow, whose mysterious coma becomes the central focus of the legal battle and investigation in the film.
  • Ron Silver plays Alan Dershowitz, a defense attorney who works to overturn Claus von Bülow's conviction for the attempted murder of his wife, Sunny.

Ending Explained

In Reversal of Fortune, the ending centers on the legal battle surrounding Claus von Bülow, who has been accused of attempting to murder his wealthy wife, Sunny. Throughout the film, the narrative explores the complexities of the case and the moral ambiguities involved. As the story unfolds, Claus's defense attorney, Alan Dershowitz, uncovers new evidence that casts doubt on Claus's guilt and raises questions about the prosecution's case. In the final act, Dershowitz successfully argues for Claus's appeal, leading to a pivotal court decision. The judges ultimately rule in Claus's favor, resulting in his conviction being overturned. This resolution not only highlights the flaws in the original trial but also emphasizes the themes of justice and the subjective nature of truth. The film concludes with Claus's newfound freedom, leaving viewers to ponder the implications of wealth, privilege, and the legal system. The ending reinforces the narrative's exploration of moral ambiguity, as it raises questions about whether Claus is truly innocent or merely adept at manipulating the system to his advantage. The film leaves audiences reflecting on the complexities of human behavior and the often-blurred lines between guilt and innocence.

Barbet Schroeder Biography Drama Mystery Jeremy Irons Glenn Close Ron Silver