The Pelican Brief

Main Plot

The Pelican Brief follows a law student named Darby Shaw who writes a legal brief speculating on the motives behind the assassination of two Supreme Court justices. Her theory, which implicates powerful figures in a conspiracy, catches the attention of both the FBI and a ruthless assassin. As Darby delves deeper into her investigation, she becomes a target herself, forcing her to go on the run to protect her life. With the help of a seasoned journalist, she navigates a dangerous landscape filled with political intrigue and corruption. As the stakes rise, Darby must use her intelligence and resourcefulness to uncover the truth while evading those who want to silence her. The film explores themes of justice, power, and the lengths to which individuals will go to expose wrongdoing in the face of overwhelming danger.

Characters

• Julia Roberts plays Darby Shaw, a law student who uncovers a conspiracy, putting her life in danger as she seeks justice.
• Denzel Washington plays Gray Grantham, an investigative journalist who teams up with law student Darby Shaw to uncover a conspiracy involving the assassination of two Supreme Court justices.
• Sam Shepard plays Thomas Callahan, a law professor and romantic interest of the protagonist. His murder propels the main character into a dangerous investigation.

Ending Explained

In the ending of The Pelican Brief, the tension reaches its peak as the main conflict surrounding the assassination of two Supreme Court justices comes to a resolution. After a series of dangerous encounters, the protagonist, a law student named Darby Shaw, uncovers a conspiracy involving powerful figures who seek to manipulate the judicial system for their own gain. As Darby and journalist Gray Grantham work together to expose the truth, they face numerous threats to their lives. The climax occurs when Darby’s findings are finally brought to light, leading to a confrontation with those behind the murders. In a dramatic turn, the evidence she presents forces the authorities to take action against the corrupt individuals involved in the conspiracy. The resolution of the film emphasizes the importance of truth and justice, as Darby’s bravery in revealing the conspiracy ultimately leads to the downfall of those who sought to silence her. The ending reinforces the themes of power, corruption, and the resilience of individuals fighting for justice, leaving the audience with a sense of hope that truth can prevail despite overwhelming odds.