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The Client

Play trailer Poster for The Client PG-13 1994 2h 0m Mystery & Thriller Play Trailer Watchlist
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77% Tomatometer 39 Reviews 68% Popcornmeter 50,000+ Ratings
Fast-paced thriller, based on the John Grisham bestseller, about a boy whose life is endangered after he stumbles across vital information about a politician's murder. His lawyer is the only person offering protection from the unwanted attentions of the Mob and the FBI - but is she capable of saving his life?
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The Client

The Client

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Critics Consensus

The Client may not reinvent the tenets of the legal drama, but Joel Schumacher's sturdy directorial hand and a high-caliber cast bring John Grisham's page-turner to life with engrossing suspense.

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Critics Reviews

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Gene Siskel Chicago Tribune Aug 16, 2017
1.5/5
You know, there are more exciting trials on free TV. Go to Full Review Geoff Andrew Time Out Feb 9, 2006
Slick, solid and saddled throughout with hackneyed motivation and implausible moments, Schumacher's film is both the best adaptation of a John Grisham novel to date, and a surprisingly suspenseful slice of escapist entertainment. Go to Full Review Janet Maslin New York Times May 20, 2003
As for Mr. Jones, he's just irresistible. In a smaller but still commanding role that loosely recalls his performance in The Fugitive, his coiled-cobra gaze and that smart, steely delivery remain in perfect form Go to Full Review Grant Watson Fiction Machine Apr 21, 2026
5/10
The film as a whole reverts from decent to mediocre, and a lot of time, effort, and talent is wasted in the process. Go to Full Review Jaylan Salah InSession Film Jul 25, 2024
A-
A film like that means nothing without its main protagonist and no, that’s not Jones as a sleaze-ball, slick-style, pompous, Bible-quoting US attorney named Reverend Roy Foltrigg. It’s Sarandon as the down-on-her-luck hero of this journey. Go to Full Review Quentin Crisp Christopher Street Apr 4, 2022
The film is hideously colored. The mere look of it sets the mood. It only gets darker as danger increases, and everyone becomes more deliciously beastly. I loved every minute of it. Go to Full Review Read all reviews

Audience Reviews

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shane O @Shanes_DVD_Shack Jun 15, 2026 Classic 90’s crime thriller. The acting holds it together it’s a good watch. Good chemistry between the lead actors. See more Evelyn X @yiyi1111 May 6, 2026 The story follows a young boy who accidentally witnesses a Mafia suicide and learns a dangerous secret. He finds an attorney willing to take his case—perhaps as a way to find the redemption she seeks for her own children. Reggie is incredibly brave and professional; she is a fierce protector who does everything in her power to ensure the boy’s safety and defense. Beyond the legal battle, the heart of the film lies in their connection, trust, and growing affection. The most moving moment is when she gives Mark her compass, symbolizing her role in guiding him through his darkest hour and helping him find his way. See more James L @Jimmy065 Jan 12, 2026 Started off o.k, but then went a bit stupid. Watchable, but not great. See more Sharang L @Scribe187 Dec 19, 2025 Falls short of the book's achievements. Still, a competent legal drama with a very likeable Sarandon performance. See more Mo S. @9mr_0 Dec 11, 2025 فلم حلو وقصه حلوه واخراج رائع See more victor w @RT03643624 Dec 3, 2025 Silly. Notching more to say. See more Read all reviews
The Client

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Cast & Crew

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Joel Schumacher

Director

Susan Sarandon

Regina "Reggie" Love

Tommy Lee Jones

"Reverend" Roy Foltrigg

Mary-Louise Parker

Dianne Sway

Anthony LaPaglia

Barry "The Blade" Muldano

Anthony Edwards

Clint Von Hooser

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The Client

The Client (1994) The Client (1994) View more photos

Movie Info

Synopsis Fast-paced thriller, based on the John Grisham bestseller, about a boy whose life is endangered after he stumbles across vital information about a politician's murder. His lawyer is the only person offering protection from the unwanted attentions of the Mob and the FBI - but is she capable of saving his life?
Director
Joel Schumacher
Producer
Arnon Milchan, Steven Reuther
Screenwriter
John Grisham, Akiva Goldsman, Robert Getchell
Distributor
Warner Bros. Pictures
Production Co
Warner Bros., Regency Enterprises, Alcor Films
Rating
PG-13
Genre
Mystery & Thriller
Original Language
English
Release Date (Theaters)
Jul 20, 1994, Wide
Release Date (Streaming)
May 13, 2016
Box Office (Gross USA)
$90.8M
Runtime
2h 0m
Sound Mix
Surround, Stereo
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