Even after 13 years this film still brings tears to my eyes. But let's face it, four people made this film. Tom Hanks, Denzel Washington, the Jonathan Demme and Tak Fujimoto. tom Hanks above all was 10005 convincing as the betrayed lawyer who must fight his disease and fight his wrongful termination. Demme made the decision to shoot the film simply and subtle, except for in-your face close-ups and Fujimoto made it so. But Denzel Washington was the perfect counterpart to Hanks' character. Many people don't realize it but Denzel is us, the audience. He represents our transformation as we build a bond built on understanding and empathy. We change as he changes and that makes him a pivotal character in the film. Denzel often doesn't get much love. He is highly underrated, even with his Oscar win. He's only has one or two $100 million dollar films, yet most of his performances have been critically acclaimed.
Philadelphia would not be the same without him.
Philadelphia would not be the same without him.