On March 16, 2025, viewers can tune in to Arte at 21h00 for the highly anticipated broadcast of L'Affaire Pélican, the 1993 thriller directed by Alan J. Pakula and based on the best-selling novel by John Grisham.
The film stars Julia Roberts as Darby Shaw, a law student who finds herself embroiled in a deadly conspiracy after the assassination of two Supreme Court justices. Alongside her, Denzel Washington plays journalist Gray Grantham, whose investigation intertwines with Darby’s relentless pursuit of the truth.
Set against the backdrop of political intrigue and corruption, L'Affaire Pélican opens with the shocking murders of the justices, which remain unsolved by both the CIA and the FBI. This compelling narrative leads Darby, with support from her professor, portrayed by Sam Shepard, to compile what becomes known as "the Pelican Brief"—a pivotal document outlining her findings and theories concerning the motivations behind the assassinations.
The movie, adapted from Grisham's third novel published in 1992, showcases the author's ability to craft stories filled with suspense and legal drama, drawing viewers deep within the world of dark political machinations. The adaptation by Pakula received acclaim for its fidelity to the book and the sharp performances of its lead actors.
Some fans of the thriller genre may recall Roberts not only for this role, which marked her transition from romantic comedies to more serious drama, but also for her iconic portrayal of Vivian Ward in the 1990 blockbuster Pretty Woman. What’s notable is how Pakula, who previously helmed classics such as All the President's Men, adeptly mixes temperature and urgency. Both Roberts and Washington deliver performances ripe with tension as they navigate the dangers surrounding their findings.
The absence of romance between Roberts and Washington's characters is particularly intriguing. While the original novel suggests a romantic relationship, Washington reportedly requested this narrative element be removed during filming, noting the potential backlash from his audience, primarily African American women. This decision reflects the sensitivities surrounding interracial relationships portrayed on-screen during the early 1990s.
This complex decision-making adds another layer to the film, leading audiences to focus on the themes of justice and power rather than romantic developments. Such layers of complexity are what keep the viewer engaged, making the political thriller more about the battle against systemic corruption.
The movie did so well upon its release, grossing over $195 million worldwide against its estimated $45 million budget. Its success not only cemented Pakula's status as a master of suspense but also highlighted Roberts and Washington as bankable stars.
On March 16, 1994, L'Affaire Pélican debuted for the first time in France, marking the start of its international acclaim. Its gripping storyline, which plays with the audience's perceptions of trust, power, and morality, ensures its place among the classics of Hollywood thrillers.
A story rooted deeply within the tensions of American politics, it delves not just as entertainment but provides commentary relevant even two decades later, as societal issues of corruption and accountability remain pressing concerns.
For those who may have missed it, tonight's showing offers another chance to experience the film’s captivating portrayal of legal intrigue and journalistic diligence. Following the film, Arte will also air the documentary Denzel Washington, Un Modèle Américain at 23:15—another treat for fans of the acclaimed actor.
L'Affaire Pélican, though fictional, holds up a mirror to the very real power struggles and ethical dilemmas present within our society. Whether through the lens of fiction or journalism, the pursuit of truth remains fraught with danger, but also offers hope for justice.
To anyone intrigued by conspiracy theories, political thrillers, or spectacular performances, don't miss out on this chance to relive or discover one of the defining films of the genre.