Anatomy of a crime

In a small town in the American Midwest, lawyer Paul Biegler seeks a big opportunity to boost his lukewarm career. The perfect opportunity arises through Lieutenant Frederick Manion, accused of murdering a man who allegedly raped his wife. But what appeared to be a simple case of honor-defending turns out to be a complicated web of intrigue, where appearances are far from reflecting the truth. Written by Robert Traver, the plot of ANATOMY OF A CRIME surprises with every page. As the trial unfolds, certainties fade and appearances are unmasked. Was the lieutenant's beautiful wife truly a quiet, homely woman or a promiscuous woman, unscrupulous about cheating on her husband? Was Manion truly merely reacting to a crime against his wife or planning to kill the beautiful Laura's lover? Number one on the bestseller list upon its release, the book was adapted for the screen in 1959 by German director Otto Preminger. With James Stewart playing the role of lawyer Biegler, the film received awards worldwide and was nominated for an Oscar in several categories, including best film and best adapted screenplay.