Plot
In 1964, world champion boxer Muhammad Ali requested exemption from the military draft based on his religious beliefs. His request was denied and when he refused induction into the army, he was convicted and sentenced to 5 years imprisonment. His case eventually worked its way up to the Supreme Court. In their first conference after the case is presented, the justices decide by majority vote to uphold the conviction and Justice John Harlan is tasked with preparing the majority opinion. He assigns one of his clerks, Kevin Connolly, to prepare a first draft but try as he might he believes that decision was wrong. His draft argues for overturning the conviction and Harlan agrees with him. The justice must now find a way to convince his colleagues.
Written by
Howard L. Bingham, Shawn Slovo, Mark Wallace
Directed by
Stephen Frears
Crew
Production Countries
United States of America
Production Companies
HBO Films, Sakura Films, Rainmark Films
Languages
English
Awards
Nominated for 2 Primetime Emmys. 1 win & 7 nominations total