Review

In this exciting adaptation of John Grisham's best-selling novel of corporate intrigue, Cruise plays a Harvard law graduate who accepts a golden opportunity job with an upscale Memphis firm. However, Cruise soon learns all is not as it appears when the Orwellian company not only has a firm grasp on his life, but they may have even murdered employees. As this relentless thriller unfolds, Cruise finds himself caught between government agents and hired killers who are on his trail. The Firm is a constant source of pulse-pounding suspense, and benefits greatly from an outstanding ensemble cast. Hackman heads this group as a seasoned lawyer who takes Cruise under his wing, and the shimmering Hunter is a helpful and wily secretary. Director Pollack keeps the action at a brisk pace which belies the two-and-a-half-hour running time.