Absence of Malice

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Absence of Malice

PG

Released Dec 18, 1982

1h 56m

Drama

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Popcornmeter

81%

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27 Reviews

64%

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2,500+ Ratings

Megan Carter is a reporter duped into running an untrue story on Michael Gallagher, a suspected racketeer. He has an alibi for the time his supposed crime was committed but it involves an innocent party. When she tells Carter the truth and the newspaper runs it, tragedy follows, forcing Carter to face up to the responsibilities of her job when she is confronted by Gallagher.

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Bob Thomas

Associated Press

Absence Of Malice is a well-acted, smoothly paced melodrama that suffers from an illogical premise.

Oct 22, 2018

Full Review

Richard Schickel

TIME Magazine

Absence of Malice does not invalidate All the President's Men. But with entertainment values -- and a moral sense -- every bit as high as that film's, it observes that there is an underside to journalistic gallantry.

Oct 1, 2008

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Variety Staff

Variety

A splendidly disturbing look at the power of sloppy reporting to inflict harm on the innocent.

May 26, 2008

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David Nusair

Reel Film Reviews

...benefits from its atmospheric visuals and raft of compelling performances...

Rated: 3/4

Jan 22, 2023

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Larry Vitacco

Philadelphia Gay News

Director Pollack does a fine job at keeping this tense and emotionally charged story on the right track throughout.

Rated: 4/4

May 27, 2020

Full Review

Alberto Abuín

Espinof

With an excellent Paul Newman in the head of the cast, the result is something disappointing, but still provoking some interest. [Full Review in Spanish]

Aug 28, 2019

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Alec B

I suppose the movie's heart is in the right place. Yes, journalists and government officials often do ruin people's lives however almost none of what transpires here is remotely believable.

Rated 2 out of 5 stars

01/10/24

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delysid d

paul newman made a lot of movies

Rated 3 out of 5 stars

12/17/21

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Audience Member

This crime drama was pretty good. Paul Newman, Sally Field, Bob Balaban, and the rest of the cast did a great job in this movie. The plot of the movie was dramatic, thrilling, and suspenseful. It's about getting even with everyone that tries to hurt you and make you look like a criminal. If you haven't seen this movie yet, check it out sometime. It's worth watching.

Rated 3 out of 5 stars

02/18/23

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Audience Member

I suppose the movie's heart is in the right place. Yes, journalists and government officials often do ruin people's lives however almost none of what transpires here is remotely believable.

Rated 2 out of 5 stars

02/13/23

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Audience Member

Although the way of telling the story does not make it an outstanding movie, it touches an issue with strength enough to make you think.

Rated 3.5 out of 5 stars

01/25/23

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Audience Member

I don't usually leave reviews for films. If I do it is because I truly enjoyed and felt something from the movie. This is not to put the other films, even if some were just not my taste. Nonetheless, Absence of Malice is a great film. It has all the elements needed to keep all types of audiences watching and not wanting to miss a moment. From the directing to the coolness of Paul Newman, from Sally Fields coarse but honest character to Bob Balaban's fidgety and scummy character. This was a great journey through stories and arcs. I recommend this film for all mature audiences.

Rated 5 out of 5 stars

02/26/23

Full Review

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Sydney Pollack

Director

Paul Newman

Gallagher

Sally Field

Megan

Bob Balaban

Rosen

Melinda Dillon

Teresa

Luther Adler

Malderone

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Synopsis

Megan Carter is a reporter duped into running an untrue story on Michael Gallagher, a suspected racketeer. He has an alibi for the time his supposed crime was committed but it involves an innocent party. When she tells Carter the truth and the newspaper runs it, tragedy follows, forcing Carter to face up to the responsibilities of her job when she is confronted by Gallagher.

Director: Sydney Pollack
Producer: Sydney Pollack
Screenwriter: Kurt Luedtke
Distributor: Columbia Pictures
Production Co: Mirage Enterprises, Columbia Pictures Corporation
Rating: PG
Genre: Drama
Original Language: English
Release Date (Theaters): Dec 18, 1982, Original
Release Date (Streaming): Apr 1, 2010
Runtime: 1h 56m
Sound Mix: Stereo

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