The movie depicts the real life trial of Bertram Cates, a science teacher that refuses to give up teaching Darwin’s theory of evolution. As the beginning credits roll, the song, “Give Me That Old Time Religion” plays in the background. This makes it clear that the trial is not about true justice, but rather religious preferences. Important people in a small town gather together to arrest Cates on the grounds that he has not only broken the law, but that he is going against God’s will.
This is an excellent and prevalent movie today, showing that individuals need to fight for their ideals. At several points, Cates desires to quit but knows that he stands for something bigger than his trial. Cates represents free speech and the prevention of banning books and other educational materials.
The performances in this movie were excellent, especially the moving speeches from Spencer Tracey (playing the part of Cates’s attorney Clarence Darrow).
This is an important moie that has lasted in time for its idealism.
My favorite quote is from Darrow, stating, "An idea is a greater monument than a cathedral!"
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