I've expanded my Netflix rentals so along with the current releases I have room to get caught up on some Classics that I've never seen. I rarely pay attention to the movies that Netflix suggests that I rent, but the other morning a particular film caught my eye that I hadn't seen. ABSENCE OF MALICE was released in 1981. It is now 2012 and it is astounding how this film holds up in terms of the theme of journalistic freedom. It seems that reporters can get away with saying anything about anyone whether it is true or not. That is the basic incident that sets the plot to ABSENCE OF MALICE in motion. Michael Gallagher (Paul Newman in an Oscar nominated role) reads in the paper that he is the subject of a criminal investigation. Suddenly, everything he has ever worked for is in jeopardy. He confronts the author, Megan Carter (Sally Field), a relentless investigative reporter. Together they learn that the story was purposely leaked to Carter as part of a plot by the chief investigator (Bob Balaban). Gallagher's life hangs in the balance as he and Carter try to uncover the truth. Sydney Pollack directed ABSENCE OF MALICE and the Oscar nominated screenplay is by Kurt Luedtke. The third Oscar nomination for this film went to Melinda Dillon was her incredibly heartbreaking portrayal of Gallagher's best friend. Wilford Brimley is wonderful in an extended cameo near the conclusion of the movie. The first thing I did after watching ABSENCE OF MALICE was head to Amazon to purchase a permanent copy of it. What a fabulous movie! Even the inevitable romance between Gallagher and Carter rings of truth, although I do think that the movie's one misstep is allowing the romance to happen because Hollywood dictated it. But at least the conclusion to the relationship felt true to the story. From top to bottom, this is a great picture, which also contains a fantastic score by Dave Grusin. I can't believe it took me so long to discover ABSENCE OF MALICE. Just might be my favorite Paul Newman pic....
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