Directed by Jonathan Demme, Andrew has AIDS and is fired by a conservative law firm because of his condition, he hires a homophobic small time lawyer as the only willing advocate for a wrongful dismissal suit. Andrew is a young up-and-coming lawyer who has just been fired by his prestigious law firm. His former colleagues claim he’s just not good enough; Andrew says he’s been fired because he has AIDS. Determined to defend his professional reputation; Andrew hires fierce personal-injury attorney Joe to represent him as he sues his former firm for wrongful termination. Separated from Andrew by a deep social and cultural chasm, Joe is initially reluctant to take the case. For Andrew the battle is clear cut–he’s fighting for his reputation, his life and for justice. Joe, however, faces a different kind of struggle as he confronts his own fears and prejudices about homosexuals.
Tagged: Anna Deavere Smith, Buzz Kilman, Charles Glenn, Daniel Chapman, Denzel Washington, Jason Robards, Jeffrey Williamson, Joanne Woodward, Jonathan Demme, Karen Finley, Lisa Talerico, Mark Sorensen Jr., Philadelphia, Roberta Maxwell, Ron Nyswaner, Ron Vawter, Stephanie Roth Haberle, Tom Hanks
