TITLE:
“Anatomy of a Fall”: A Study of Dramatic Elements in Courtroom Films
AUTHORS:
Cao Li
KEYWORDS:
“Anatomy of a Fall”, Theatricality, Narrative, Suspense
JOURNAL NAME:
Open Access Library Journal,
Vol.12 No.10,
October
23,
2025
ABSTRACT: Courtroom films inherently possess dramatic tension, which draws in curious audiences and encourages them to actively engage with the film’s narrative. Fallen Judgment uses the courtroom films genre as a lens through which to examine the marriage and private life of a successful female writer. Director Justine Triet explores the film’s themes through a collective voyeuristic perspective, using a child’s narrative viewpoint and skillfully crafted suspense to elevate the dramatic narrative. The actors’ masterful portrayals of their characters further amplify the dramatic tension of the film. The director’s adept editing and masterful use of music and sound vividly bring other dramatic elements to life on the big screen, prompting audiences to reflect on real-life situations.