Welcome to my media law blog. I use this blog as a teaching tool that
allows me to comment on current events and topics related to media law.
It also allows you to participate in discussions involving media law
topics.
As the name of the blog suggests, I want you to use this forum to
speak freely about the topics that we will discuss in my media law classes and free speech/free press honors class.
We will discuss some controversial topics -- and often, we may not
agree. You may not agree with me, or you may not agree with your
classmates.
But this is a forum of expression, so you have the right to express
your opinion. My opinion is not correct just because I'm the instructor.
You should feel free to disagree with me.
Think about this as the First Amendment in practice.
A few ground rules, please. Some of our discussions may become
heated. While you have the right to express your opinion, I urge you to
be considerate of others, especially those with whom you disagree. Avoid
attacking or belittling someone just because you disagree with his or
her opinion. And, I suggest you double check your comment for grammar,
clarity and sensitivity before you post.
Also, this is IMPORTANT. With your comment, please include your
first name and initial of your last name, and your class (Monday ITV, TTh, or Honors). I
need this to keep track of your comments for participation points.
You can get an idea of how I used this blog in past semesters, though you are not responsible for reading previous blog entries.
Now, let's start with something light.
Share with us a favorite book, movie, TV show, song, etc., that is related to law, then tell us why it's your favorite.
I'll go first. In past semesters, the movie I would call my favorite
is "Twelve Angry Men" -- the original with Henry Fonda. But last fall,
I saw Steven Spielberg's "Lincoln" and was thoroughly impressed. The
movie recounts President Lincoln's effort to encourage Congress to pass
the Thirteen Amendment, which called for the abolition of slavery. A
movie about passing a constitutional amendment? How perfect for a media
law prof!
I look forward to reading your comments.
93 comments:
Erin F. - Tuesday/Thursday
My favorite book is actually "The Help". Although it doesn't have to do with law, it still relates to the days when blacks and whites were separate in society. I love this book because of the story line, and I couldn't stop reading it. However, a book and/or movie I did enjoy reading that had to do with law is "To Kill a Mockingbird". I'm sure everyone had to read this book during grade school, but a white man has to defend a black man who is accused of raping a white woman.
Jordan Hunter (Tth):
Hands down my favorite medium related to law is To Kill A Mockingbird. Either the book or the movie, it is beloved because of how it is told from the innocent kids' point of view. It should how clouded all other perceptions were.
Andrea D. T/Th
I think my favorite TV show pertaining to media law (-ish) would be American Horror Story: Asylum. The protagonist, Lana Winters, is a journalist who has her rights violated by the very institution she is trying to expose, and uncovers the truth, mystery, and horror behind the very place that keeps her imprisoned. The show does a very good job at showing the rise of journalism through the 20th century from a female journalists perspective, while showing how journalism and human rights laws were manipulated for gain. (And I just love Jessica Lange).
Kathryn P. Honors
My favorite TV show is House of Cards. This show pertains to law by watching a perceived version of how laws are passed in congress through the eyes of a congressman.I love it, because the writing and cinematography are keen.
Brenda B. T/Th
I am a HUGE Jack Olsen fan and have read a majority of his books. Many of Olsen's books fall under the category of True Crime, and one in particular, "Doc: The Rape of the Town of Lovell," discusses the challenges of having sufficient evidence and securing witnesses. This true story is about Dr. Story, who preys on mostly Mormon women, by conducting unnecessary pelvic exams. A small town, a fundamentalist doctor, Baptists and Mormons, equal quite the scandal.
Chelsey C- Tues/Thurs
My favorite TV show related to law is Scandal. This is absolutely my favorite series right now because I have an interest in politics and law. It shows the lies, scandals, deception and cover-ups in the government especially with the President. It also deals with a branch of PR in crisis management.
Maia Wintrob T/Th
My favorite TV show related to law is Scandal as well! It is absolutely thrilling and gives you an idea of the way the government works. All the scandals and lies being shown in the show may not be 100% accurate, however, the show definitely gives you a little taste of what type of scenarios the government can hide!
Leave it to me to post one of the most "girly" comments on the blog tonight - but my favorite movie pertaining to law is "Erin Brockovich" with the very beloved Julia Roberts. It goes to show how much hard-work and determination pay off when one person feels like the rights and safety of the people are not where they "should" be. (Plus, I think I have a slight obsession with Julia.) What makes the movie even better, is that it's based off of a true story! Hooray for justice!
(Megan, S. TTh)
I really enjoyed the movie "A Time to Kill". It was a intense, well done movie that dealt with not only law, but racism.
Jason, M. TTh
Although many ideas came rushing to my head, I have to admit that my favorite book (of sorts) is the Marvel Comics story arc referred to as "Civil War."
the story focuses around a fictitious bill called the "Super-Human Registration Act" that is passed into law. The act required all super-humans to register with the federal government in order to employ their powers.
The story arc has always been a favorite of mine due to the theme of sacrificing civil liberties for a nation's safety, and the turmoil this ideal can cause.
Aimee, J. TTH
Favorite show relating to law has to be hands down Law and Order SVU. As gruesome and "heinous" the show is, it's so addicting-and educational!
A crazy movie dealing with the law that wasn't exactly my favorite (but is worth mentioning) is "Law Abiding Citizen." Where does justice lay between Jamie Foxx's witty comments and shirtless-psychopathic Gerald Butler? Still in debate! A terrifying thriller that makes you wonder what the meaning of justice really is.
Brandon S. (Honors)
My favorite show that has to deal with law and politics in general is definitely, as cliche as it is, Scandal. The show illustrates (especially in this recent season) the military industrial-complex we have in this country and how the constitution, in all its glory can be twisted to fit anyone's agenda and work against the American people in some cases.
Madison W TTH
One of my favorite movies relating to law would be V for Vendetta. It's an amazing film set in Great Britain in the future where "V" (a masked figure) and the great Natalie Portman overthrow the oppressive government.
A favorite show of mine that has to do with law would be Orange is the New Black. It might not relate to the course material of this class much, but it does touch on the legal system every now and then discussing statute of limitations and other things that explain the background stories of each inmate.
Christi J (Tuesday/Thursday)
One of the best movies relating to law and one of my favorites, hands down would be "Law Abiding Citizen."
The entire movie focuses on a man unable to receive justice through the system and therefore attempts to get it himself. There were many courtroom scenes and conversations with his lawyer (J-Fox) in which Fox kept telling him ".....it's about what you can prove in court." It's one of my favorite action movies merely because Butler did what many of us WISH we could do when it comes to seeking revenge for our loved ones when the system fails us. He may have "technically" gone about it the wrong way, but we all totally can understand why. Moral of the story, the Law can be for us or against us.
Paige V. Honors
My favorite TV show pertaining to law and law enforcement is Law & Order: SVU. It portrays many examples where the district attorney and the assistant district attorney have to make tough choices on who to charge with what charges, and in extreme cases prove their charge is legitimate with previous cases' precedences.
Morgan B. -- (TTh)
So I would have to say that hands down my favorite TV show that relates to law would have to be Criminal Minds. I love how it takes you on a different journey every time, portraying to us all the unjust people in the world, while at the same time sharing with us the law and how it can so easily be broken.
Katie, P , TTH Class
A favorite movie of mine that is kind of related to law is Chicago (2002) where Roxie Hart hires the slick lawyer Billy Flynn to defend her case because she is on trial for murder. I really enjoy musicals, and I think that the over-the-top way in which the songs and performances tell the story is quite clever. The movie is also very funny because it mixes court cases with show biz and shows how people can be blinded by a little "razel dazzel".
Spencer, J, T-Th
I recently watched the first season of House of Cards and can't get enough of it. It's an American political drama that evolves around the character of congressman Frank Underwood, who is played by Kevin Spacey. After the election of a Democratic President, Underwood is informed he will not become Secretary of State, even though he was promised the position. The causes him to seek revenge and become increasingly power hungry throughout the White House.
Skye W. Monday ITV
I've seen a lot of comments about the show, "Scandal" and I have to admit, that was my first thought when reading the question. Scandal goes into law by looking at how politicians can obstruct the law due to position and power, and it's just a really interesting show.
Brenna B - Monday ITV
Like the first comment by Erin, I also really enjoyed the movie adaptation of "The Help" because it gives insight into the civil rights movement and the struggle for equality. It really pulls at your heartstrings. I also thought the movie "Eagle Eye" shows the frightening impact of big brother surveillance by the government.
Peter T. Honors
Anything David Baldacci has written are my favorite books having to do with law or the first amendment in general. Most of his stories deal with government conspiracies but I used to live in the area where the stories take place so it is nice to be able to build an image of what he is talking about in his stories.
DJ K. (Monday ITV)
My favorite law-related film that comes to mind is A Few Good Men. While it may not be focused on media, the performances by Cruise and Nicholson are memorable and it's always on TV, so there's tons of opportunities to watch it.
Maira R. (Monday ITV)
My favorite show that is somewhat involved with the law is "245." The show surrounds the make-believe group CTU (counter-terrorist unit) and the obstacles that they come across in order to stop a national disaster from occurring. The show is action packed and so full of suspense. The terrorists are most of the time after the president and Jack Bauer usually has to break several laws in order to capture the terrorist.
Aja B. - Honors
My favorite novel involving law is The Postman Always Rings Twice (1934) by James Cain because the novel, via a gripping plot, highlights (and sensationalizes) corruption amongst representatives of the law, while also providing the reader with some insight on life insurance agencies and their relationship with the law.
I have two movies involving law that I’m particularly fond of:
First, Iron Jawed Angels (2004) because it is based on a true story that highlights one of the ways media and law intersect. The film focuses on the Suffrage Movement at the beginning of the 21st century by way of recounting the journey of activists Alice Paul and Lucy Burns, founders of the National Women’s Party. Due to the radical nature of Paul and Burns, they were arrested and sent to the Occoquan Workhouse where they were subjected to horrific conditions, including being force fed throughout their hunger strike. News of the treatment the women received went unbeknownst to the public until it is leaked to the media, which generated national attention that placed all eyes on President Wilson, who pardoned the women. The media played a pivotal role in swaying public opinion, undoubtedly making it easier for the 19th amendment to be passed.
Another favorite is Puncture (2011) which tells the true story of Mike Weiss’ uphill battle with the Group Purchasing Organization due to the company’s refusal to purchase safety syringes. I love the movie for several reasons:
1. It happened in Houston, and who doesn’t love Texas story.
2. The movie highlights some of the corruption in America’s pharmaceutical industry, much of which I had no idea about. Particularly how the love of money has surpassed the love of people in heartbreaking ways.
3. The movie brought attention to the fact that the GPO still refuses to purchase safety syringes, despite how safety syringes make it impossible for a nurse or patient to be accidentally stabbed with a used needle.
4. The movie caused me to look further into the case, where I was amazed (and saddened) to find two attorneys (Shannon Ross and Thelma Colbert) died mysteriously after beginning a criminal investigation on the GPO for reasons similar to the Weiss case. Shockingly, nothing has been done about this, and there was little media coverage.
Nathan Moore - Honors
I’d say my favorite book related to the law would either be Dostoyevsky’s Crime and Punishment, or Lee’s To Kill a Mockingbird. Crime and Punishment shows the psychological terror and distress evading the law can create, and this chaos easily creates a world in which the protagonist in a constant state of fear. It goes to show that breaking the law is (usually) never worth it, and the time spent fleeing would probably have been more enjoyable in jail. To Kill a Mockingbird on the other hand is one of my favorites because it shows Atticus as a morale hero and someone I feel that lawyers should look up to. The way he fights for someone that society would rather condemn shows that anyone deserves advocacy. This book demonstrates that even though you may feel persecuted and out of options, someone in the criminal justice system will be there to fight for you. As for a TV show related to the law, I’m a big fan of Locked up Abroad, it’s really interesting to see the different justice systems around the world, and how they prosecute foreigners and deal with the international relations, and the different types of penitentiaries worldwide.
My Favorite TV show about Law would be of course Law & Order SVU. They show all kinds of cases and the law pertaining to the cases, just makes it kind of interesting. My favorite movie about law would have to be To Kill A Mockingbird. It not only deals with law, but also a white man representing a black man, in a time where it really wasn't accepted.
Leah K. (Tues/Thurs)
One of my favorite books is The Help. Like another student said, it's not really about law but the story is about what life was like during segregation. I read it in two days and thought it was a great story. My favorite TV show is Law and Order: SVU. I love how mostly every episode is a different story with different laws that apply to the case at hand. I think the show is very interesting and every time I start an episode I find it really hard not to finish watching it.
Tara Pohlmeyer - Honors
My absolute favorite show involving law is "Boston Legal." Denny and Allen, played by William Shatner and James Spader, are outrageously funny and sarcastic lawyers working at the law firm of Crane, Poole, and Schmidt. The supporting characters of the show all bring something different to the table, too. They're all mostly character actors, and the show gets its quirkiness from their uniqueness. From the cross dressing lawyer to Denny, who regularly shoots things... and people, there's something for everyone. Denny and Allen however are famous for their court room debacles. It's a great show, definitely worth viewing.
Christopher Henry -- Honors
My favorite show concerning law would have to be Ally McBeal. Though the show may not be one of serious nature I throughly enjoy how creative each case was. For instance, one episode the firm sues god, or atleast the house of god and actually win. Of course the settled out of court but that is not the point. The point is that people usually view the law from limited view and this show, though comedic, really asks some hard hitting abstract questions that involve the law and it's elasticity.
Sarah G. (Monday ITV)
My favorite TV show about the law is NCIS. I know the show deals quite a bit with the Military, but I love how different aspects of the law such as the forensics (investigative) side and then the different entities of the law as well such as the FBI and the Department of Homeland Security. My favorite movie pertaining to the law is Legally Blonde because it shows the passion that one woman has to pass a bill in order to help her dog. While watching the movie, I am able to see the different steps that are taken to actually be able to get her bill to the floor of the House.
Nickolas C. (Tuesday/Thursday 12:30-1:50)
I really like Bob Marley's song "I Shot The Sheriff." It's a great song, and has sparked a lot of other awesome covers such as Eric Clapton's version.
The songs basic idea is about justice and basically justice and law go hand-in-hand. Law in Order SVU is also a cool show but I don't really watch for the law aspect. I just like the show.
John A
Tues/Thurs
Hands down favorite show related to law is House of Cards(US). HOC gives a first-hand look into Washington D.C and shows how money and political deception delude top government officials to create policy that has almost nothing to do with the welfare of the people, and everything to do with power and corporate profits. Also, Kevin Spacey is a badass.
One of my favorite movies of all time is the Shawshank Redemption. If you haven't seen it yet you need to. A man is convicted of murdering of his wife and her lover. He maintains his innocence and even when there is a testimony in his favor, the warden of the prison keeps him from seeking justice. Its a long, slow movie but the ending is so great, it's worth it.
Emily B (T/TH)
One of my all time favorite shows that involves law is Monk.If you haven't seen it it's about an OCD detective who solves hundreds of murder cases while trying to solve the ultimate case of who murdered his wife. I really like this show because along with being funny, it has taught me quite a few things about criminal law.
Lesley W. TTh
My favorite movie pertaining to law is Primal Fear, because it demonstrates the ways in which the system can fail and how it's not always fair, and not everyone gets the justice they deserve. Plus I love a good twist at the end of a movie!
Joshua D (T/TH)
One of the most fascinating media/law films I've seen recently is "J. Edgar" with Leonardo DiCaprio. Considering that it's about Hoover and his paranoid campaign of censorship and government spying--by and large circumventing the right to privacy--you'd think it was terrible and terrifying. But it actually is a really great portrait of a flawed man in his often misguided quest to protect his country.
Miranda G
T/TH 12:30
So in reality, I watch a TON of shows and movies that pertain to law. I love Law & Order SVU which is close to my favorite... I've seen ALL of the episodes at least twice but it can sometimes I find the episodes to be a bit disturbing. So my top favorite law show would have to be "Drop Dead Diva." It comes on the Lifetime network. P.S. Don't know it until you try it. This show is awesome. It combines romance and everyday struggles, and a lot of different court cases, some of which pertain to media law itself. I love the main character of the show, Jane. She is really smart and I actually learn things from the show that pertain to law. It makes the life of a lawyer look extra glamorous and fun. Of course, like many shows, Jane usually wins. She has a unique way of applying fashion and beauty to law which any girl can relate with. It's a fun way to understand laws better. I think everyone (mostly women) should check out this show if they have any interest in law based shows!
Claudia S.
T/TH 12l30
I'm really big into shows like Law and Order and CSI Miami but my favorite law show is First 48. I like it because unlike CSI and Law and Order, you get a first hand view of a life of a homicide detective. It's documentary type show so it's nice to know that you're not just watching actors.
Ernest M.
T/TH HONORS
I'm going to be honest, I don't usually tend to be interested in shows or books pertaining to law. That being said a friend recently pushed me to start watching Scandal, a show about Olivia Pope, a PR crisis manager that used to work for the White House. I became obsessed instantly. The show displays the rough edges of government and the raw nature of politics. I recommend this show for everyone. It's simply fabulous.
Bridget G. - Monday ITV
One of my favorite movies that are related to law, is Bernie staring Jack Black. I like it because it kind of explores the rare case of a good person that everyone thinks is innocent, even when he himself is explaining he is guilty. It's a great movie, and also a funny one.
Brittani H.- TTh
One of my favorite books, that is also a TV show, is Orange is the New Black". It goes into detail about certain laws, sentences that are given, and how the women's prison system works. It shows show unfair the court systems can be, and how a lot of people are locked up for ridiculous amounts of time for small or non-violent crimes. Another show that deals with law that I really enjoy is House of Cards. It shows how corrupt the government can be, and all the tricks that politicians use to get laws passed and different ways for the rich and powerful to get what they want.
Jesse P. - Monday ITV
I've got a few favorites when it comes to law movies and a couple of TV shows too. My favorite TV shows are "The First 48" and "Law and Order SVU." My favorite law movies are My Cousin Vinny, The Rainmaker and The Client.
Dahlia H - TTH
One of my favorite movies regarding the law might have to be "Double Jeopardy" starring Ashely Judd back in the day. Considering the legal premise of double jeopardy (cannot be charged twice for the same crime) is the entire plot to the movie allowing her to hunt her "dead" husband down to kill him after already serving a prison sentence for doing so.
In terms of a TV Show, House of Cards is amazing. The way it actually displays the gross manipulation of a corrupt system is accurate and almost terrifying. Especially after Congress has passed a law that they no longer have to prove any ties to terrorism, any US citizen can now be thrown in a cell and locked away forever based only upon suspicion, not a trial or proof. While I am a big Obama supporter, I'm sure our founding fathers supported overthrowing such a corrupt government.
Austin G. (Honors)
my favorite movie would have to be A Time to Kill. The movie is not only about true justice in the court room, but it is also about racialism in early America.
Randi B. (Honors)
My favorite movie is Runaway Jury. All the trouble they go through to bribe others is so interesting. Also, the movie is about a large case involving a gun company, an issue we might talk about in class.
Veronica L. (Honors)
My favorite tv show, though I enjoy many tv shows, is Suits on USA (characters welcome).
I like to watch the show because it's interesting to see how they go about winning their cases and what type of rules they use or bend to win their cases.
Also to see how things are done in a law firm.
My favorite show that has to deal with law is Law & Order SVU. This show is very addicting! It mainly has to do with explicit sexual crimes but it will definitely teach you some things you weren't aware of.
Nietheari Almanza
My favorite movie today is The Butler, a movie about civil rights, slavery, protesting and serving ones country. This is an excellent movie and really penetrates the age gap between the older generation of slaves and the freedom riders who were their children.
Like many others my favorite show at the moment pertaining to law is Scandal. Although the show is loosely related I believe it shows the gritty truth to the side we don't often see. Being a political drama I think it shows the inside issues of how people use public relations to avoid having to go to court or have publicity problems.
Chanell G, Monday ITV
My favorite movie regarding law is probably Bury Me at Wounded Knee. It’s about how the U.S. government used policies to basically eradicate the Native American culture. It follows the Dawes Act set forth in the mid-late 1800s, and how it left thousands of Native Americans stripped of their family, culture, and sacred land. It’s a wonderful movie that I feel accurately depicts what the Sioux tribe went through, but warning… it is super sad!! Watching this movie reminds us how important this class is regarding ethics. We need to always question policies set forth by our government and think about the causes and effects that they have on the world around us.
Nicholas R. Monday ITV
I am currently watching two T.V. series that deal with the law, although the law is not the primary focus of the shows.
I got sucked into watching Breaking Bad since everyone told me I should watch it and I got sucked into watching Bones since I saw a marathon of it on T.V. and decided to continue along with it.
I like both of these shows for the stories, dynamics between characters, and scientific approaches to things.
Heather H- T/Th
I've realized every girl is obsessed with this show, but Scandal really is as great as it sounds. The type of Public Relations work done by Olivia Pope's firm really is remarkable and very entertaining as well.
Selah S. Tu/Th
This may make me sound old but am I the only one that watched Judge Judy as a kid? That was good TV!
But as an adult, I've found my favorite law focused medium is John Grisham's novels. My favorites are The Runaway Jury & A Time To Kill. He is a fantastic writer and I have always enjoyed how he can bring the law to life through his characters and plot twists!
Victoria G (T/TH)
Hate to jump on the bandwagon, but Sandal is such a great show! Olivia Pope is a "fixer" in Washington, D.C. She fixes problems for many politicians before the issues can even be decided in court. I find the show very interesting because Pope and her team does whatever it takes to fix the problem. This includes acts of stealing, bribery, and lying. I think it brings up the question of how often issues get "fixed" without public knowledge?
Felisha B.
Tuesday/Thursday
That awkward moment when you're technologically challenged and do not realize your comment never posted. :( Sorry to be so late to the party guys!
As a few others have said, my favorite show that is primarily focused on law is Suits on USA. I like the way the it shows the rivalry between large firms and the process it takes to actually win a case. The insight into the hard work and preparation required is very enlightening, even if it is from a fictional point of view.
Cortney C. TTh 12:30
I am really into law tv shows. My favorites are NCIS, CIS and Law and Order. These shows give viewers a better understanding on how the justice system works. Just like the justice system, the endings are never predictable. I like it when the suspected killer are ruled innocent because of lack of evidence. These rulings give viewers a realistic perspective of the U.S. justice system.
Law and Order: Special Victims Unit is the greatest thing ever created. Crazy plot twists, ripped-from-the headlines story lines and dramatic/stereotypical cop characters PLUS that dun-dun noise? The recipe for perfection. Detective Olivia Benson is my spirit animal.
Amanda R.
TTR
Robert F (Tuesday/Thursday 12:30)
I enjoy watching Boardwalk Empire and Mad Men. The nostalgic feel from those eras sometimes makes me wonder if I grew up in the wrong era.
But to get my fix in on law and crime has to be the USA Network. Suits and White Collar are probably two of the best shows on that network.
That was until I watched House of Cards and eagerly waiting for the next season.
Cori B. (Tuesday/Thursday)
The law related show that I've recently really been into is Dexter. Dexter is a serial killer, but he only kills evil people. This is a code that he lives by, taught to him by his adoptive father. Dexter also works as a blood spatter analyst with the Miami police department. This show was really great until I reached the end, which I was really disappointed with.
There is one season where a journalist starts dating a detective so that she can have the exclusive information for the newspaper that she works for. She ends up being a seiral killer's daughter that no one knows about, and is equally crazy. But yeah, it was a pretty great show.
Andy Erickson (T/TR 12:30)
My favorite law show on television is a show called I Survived. It is interesting to me because it shows dangerous and scary situations that people have been through. It tells the story from the victims perspective and interviews the victim throughout. The law comes into play when the victim needs to be rescued from a kidnapping or abduction. The show is made well and the actors are pretty good most of the time.
A law-related show I've become interested in is The First 48. It describes what is done in the first 48 hours of an investigation surrounding some sort of serious crime.
A law-related movie that I love is Liar Liar. Obviously as a Jim Carrey comedy, it is much more lighthearted. The irony of his son using his son "lawyer" and "liar" at the beginning of the film always makes me chuckle. It also has many entertaining court scenes.
My favorite law related show is definitely Scandal. In fact, I think it might be my favorite show in general. I just hopped on the bandwagon when I realized it was on Netflix and I am totally hooked. In season 2, there's an entire episode based around injunctions. They also play off the entire NSA scandal and the troubles of the Nixon administration.
Elizabeth T TTh
One of my favorite shows that has to do with law and ethics is Law & Order: SVU. My grandma was the one who actually got me into the show, and we used to watch it all the time when she was alive. I like it because it's super dramatic and modern and I love to try and solve the mystery. I think the background stories are used spruce up a show about law and the court system. I like that they use the proper court lingo in the show and you get to learn a lot about having a lawyer, what it takes to issue a search warrant, and the relationship between the district attorneys and the media/press.
Julie A. T/Th 12:30
M ITV class
Yemi Akande
My favorite show relating to law is The Good Wife. I love the show because the lead actress is a perfect example of a strong women. She is a hard working mother who strives hard to be at the top of her game regardless of obstacles.
Molly V. (TTh class)
My favorite show is ABC's Nashville. The part of the show that relates to law is the conflicts between the main character, Rayna, and her record label. They face a lot of legal issues and they fight back and forth because she wants to leave her record label and start her own label, but she is under a contract so she can't.
Madison Soranno Monday ITV
I have recently started to watch Scandal which is a show that deals with all sorts of criminal and government cases that are very highly dramatized!
They add things that go on in everyday politics into their script so even though it is all fake, a lot of the show deals with things that may actually be going on!
My favorite TV series related to law is a historical fiction called the The Tudors.Taking place in the 16th century, the drama chronicles the reign of King Henry VIII of England as he makes changes to English law, religious law and leads his nation through several wars. Although not directly related to U.S. law, the series is an interesting retelling of King Henry's struggle to change a law in a government that is closely tied to Catholicism in order to divorce his wives. This period in time follows the English civil war, The War of the Roses, which was on the the main inspirations for George R. R. Martins book series A Game of Thrones.
With that being said The Tudors is a lot like the HBO series, but with no magic and less twincest.
Rudy Villalobos, Monday 2-5 RR campus
Kelsey C.
Monday ITV
My favorite law-related media is, without a doubt, Law and Order SVU. I spend the majority of my free time binge watching and re-watching the tales of my good friends Oliva and Elliot. How is it related to law, you ask? It's in the name! I've always been somewhat familar with the lingo and what goes on in the courtroom, but I'm excited to see how the information I learn this semseter will enhance my perception of one of my already favorite series.
I will have to agree with many of fellow students in regards to Scandal. It's in amazing show for reasons they've listed. A film that comes to mind is The Exorcism of Emily Rose which is kind of a silly example, but watching that incredibly interesting court case unfold was very entertaining.
Nickolas Gomez - (TTh, 12:30-1:50)
Taylor Alanis (M iTV)
My favorite show regarding law and/or politics would be HOUSE OF CARDS. In fact, i'm obsessed with it at the moment! I love Kevin Spacey's manipulative journey to the Presidency. I think I love the show so much because it involves both media law and politics. There are journalists that are dedicated to exposing the evils in the white house and corrupt politicians that will do anything possible to keep their scandals from unraveling. I can't recommend this show enough, especially for Mass Comm. majors. it is very relevant to many things we discuss in different classes and the writing/story line is impeccable.
My favorite "law" movie is Legally Blonde. It is cheesy and a chick flick but I love it. She actually says some useful law terms when she is in the court room.
My favorite TV show pertaining to law is Law and Order: SVU. My roommates got me hooked on it last year and it is our go-to show to watch (we can watch an SVU marathon for days). Each episode has a compelling storyline and portrays realistic scenarios. The issues they deal with really get you thinking. Stabler and Benson forever.
Below is a link highlighting 24 other reasons why women like me are addicted to Law and Order: SVU.
http://elitedaily.com/women/reasons-women-love-law-order-svu/
Delaney N. Monday ITV
My favorite movie involving law is "A Time to Kill" with Matthew McConaughey, Samuel L. Jackson and Sandra Bullock. The movie is about Matthew McConaughey's character, a lawyer, who represents Samuel L. Jackson's character, a black man who takes the law into his own hands by killing the two white men who raped his daughter.
My favorite show about law is House of Cards on Netflix. I can't get enough of it. I love that the show lets you see what's it like to be in Congress through Kevin Spacey's (Francis) character's eyes. It reveals all of the laws that they break in order to put new laws into action. It always makes me wonder if there have been murderers on Capitol Hill, or not, in order to get where they want to be and to gain power.
Shelby Bumbalough
TTH class at 12:30
My favorite piece of literature/film that pertains to law would ALSO have to be the script for Twelve Angry Men. Basically it's a story of 12 men on a jury who deliberate whether a boy is guilty or innocent for an accused murder.It's a script that has been made into film, tv and radio adaptations. I remember reading this in high school and it really taught me how a jury actually makes decisions and the deciding factors that go into reaching a final verdict. Though it was a tad confusing to follow, it truly is a great representation of a jury as well as morals, ethics, racial prejudice in the American Legal system for that time period. Also...my favorite song pertaining to law would be "I fought the Law (And the Law Won)" by Bobby Fuller Four covered by The Clash. It's a classic rock and roll hit...not sure what this really has to do with law but it's catchy!
Taylor Espinosa
TTH class at 12:30
My favorite TV show that is related to law is definitely Law and Order SVU. I reccently just started watching it this spring semester because my boyfriend says Law and Order is better than Criminal Minds, which I disagree, but I had to give it a try, and it turns out I am actually a big fan of Law and Order after all!
Don't get my wrong, it is very disturbing and graphic at some points and I do not enjoy hearing and seeing a few things, but I have learned a lot from that tv show. They mention different cases and laws in the show, that you also mention in class!
One of my favorite law related movies is also Twelve Angry Men. I watched in one of my communication classes and had to analyze it so it has definitely become one of my favorites! But Law and Order SVU is definitely my top favorite. This is my favorite because I feel like I get an inside glimpse on the in's and out's of adapting the law and the hoops lawyers and detectives have to jump through. With my sister being in law school, I like asking her how realistic the show is and she tells me that a lot of it is true, especially with the role that the District Attorney has to play. It is very interesting to see how the detectives know the truth but still have to go through the proper channels to prove innocence or guilt to the jury.
Olga Guerra
Mon ITV 2pm
Fantasia Valencia (T/Th 12:30)
One of my favorite movies is Law Abiding Citizens. The movie relates to the law because the main character Clyde is trying to show how the justice system is flawed. The movie shows Clyde's journey of getting revenge on the corrupted system and the criminals who killed his wife and daughter.
Konrad Carlson (t/th1230)
I would have to agree with fantasia Law Abiding Citizen would have to be my favorite too. He takes the law into his own hands and creates a plan that he executes i believe ten years later.
Caitlin Bogard (TTH 12:30)
Not only is it one of my favorite books, but Gregory Peck as Atticus Finch in To Kill a Mockingbird is a fantastic movie. Not only does it have wonderful life lessons, but it also shows how law didn't do much to protect African Americans. The story though shows you what a brave and dedicated lawyer can do.
Bailey Crawford (TTH 12:30)
My favorite television show about the law is The West Wing. Not only is Martin Sheen a total dreamboat, but I felt his portrayal as President Jed Bartlet was very well done. I loved the way the show showed you how the legislative, executive and judicial branch work together. Any show that can make me cry during an episode on filibusters is okay in my book.
Evan Hancock
(TTh 12:30)
One of my favorite law movies would have to be My Cousin Vinny, with Joe Pesci and Marisa Tomei. Beyond the hilarity they bring to the movie and me being a fan of his movies anyways, I enjoyed seeing him learn how to defend a murder case on the fly, pretty much. He had ZERO court room experience, and the whole New York boy defending his cousin and his friend in the southern Alabama scene was priceless.
Jonathan Wilcox
Tth 1230
Ughh I hate and love making lists of my favorite things. I love to share the things I love, but I hate deciding what is good, better and best!
My favorite law related movie has to be A Few Good Men. In conversation, I constantly find myself yelling "You can't handle the truth!" or sighing, "I have neither the time nor the inclination to explain myself." Usually no one gets the reference, but, hey, that's geek life.
Jaclyn Coles T/R 12:30
I used to watch Law and Order with my mom and I enjoyed asking my mom about laws and if certain things that happened in the courtroom on the show were accurate or not. One episode bothered me because this pregnant woman and her supposed lover were accused of killing her husband. She wanted to finish the trial before the baby was born, which seemed odd. The trial was over before her baby was born and she was found not guilty. The baby was clearly not her dead husband's baby. It looked like her lover's baby, and there's her motive. They couldn't take her back to court in the show. I asked my mom if, in real life, they could take her back to court since it seemed like she and her lover did it. Mom said no, the trial was over.
I know I already commented on this...but I've recently watched House of Cards and LOVED it. I think it is constantly dealing with things we address in class (especially press and media rights!) and suggest for everyone to watch it!
Casandra Medina T/Th 12:30
My favorite TV show is the Netflix series House of Cards. I love it because not only am I a huge politics nerd but Kevin Spacey playing Congressman Frank Underwood is just absolute magic. I love that it relates to law because it takes place in Washington D.C. where all of the big legal decisions have been made, but it shows a lot of laws being broken! Definitely a guilty pleasure show
T/TH 12:30PM
I was originally going to talk about House of Cards, but it seems like plenty of people have talked about that show already. One of my favorite shows that has to do with law is called Drop Dead Dive-An American legal comedy. The name of the show might not sound promising, but it's not what you would expect. It's about a model that that goes to heaven and comes back to life in a lawyer body. In other words, the main character is a successful lawyer and the main setting is a law firm. Every episode involves two cases. Sometimes they are criminal cases and sometimes they are civil cases.
T/H 12:30pm
Earlier in the semester I would have said "A Few Good Men" or "A Time to Kill." I like the first because it gives an interesting look at courtroom procedure with a context in military law. Also, Jack Nicholson is amazing. "A Time to Kill," is an incredibly powerful movie (the book is much better, though extremely graphic). The reason that "A Time to Kill" stands out to me is because I read it in 7th grade, and had never been introduced to material of that nature and I enjoyed the court aspect of it. In light of recent discussions on ethical decision making I would say "Shattered Glass" is a great movie. It gives an interesting perspective on a journalist choosing ethics or in this case choosing the unethical route.
Paxton K. Tuesday/Thursday
I would have to say my favorite TV show that is related to law would have to be Suits on the USA network. Even though I don't always understand the legal situations or terminology, the writing is phenomenal. The tension and animosity portrayed between competing firms and attorneys is riveting, even if the majority of those situations are probably fictionalized.
My favorite law TV show is Law & Order, hands down. I used to watch the 8hr marathon before they cut it to 4 hrs on the weekends. It's really funny, but because of this class, I now understand more clearly what they are talking about when they says subpoena, beyond reasonable doubt, and all those terms that I didn't understand before. So thanks! I know enjoyed the show in a different way.
---Valeria G. TTH---
I enjoy all types of law shows and movies. My favorite, like many others, is Law and Order. It is one of my favorite shows to binge watch when I am under the weather. I have noticed from this class that I understand more of the terms used in the court cases. Another favorite of mine is Scandal, I especially like it for the PR aspect, but the politics are really interesting.
As expected, one of my favorite movies of all time is A Few Good Men and I am always anxious and excited for the part when Jack Nicholson's character yells the famous line "You can't handle the truth" Overall, the movie is great and really shows how the court system works.
--Hallie Doris TTH--
If I have to go with a book/movie I would choose "To Kill a Mockingbird" hands down. It is one of the few that I would actually reread from high school.
However, as a TV junkie I love to watch Law and Order. My favorite part of the shows are when they actually show them taking the client to court and watching that entire process unfold.
As many people have also said, Scandal would have to be one of my favorite shows of all time, not just in the field of law. The characters and story lines all help to give an exciting glimpse at the side of politics, and also the public relations world which really interests me.
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