Whether as a study break, a source of motivation, or material for your next seminar discussion, movies and series can offer law students and legal enthusiasts far more than just entertainment. They provide fascinating insights into legal thinking, pose moral questions, and reveal the complex relationship between law and justice. Our selection includes both classics and recent productions that explore the legal systems of Germany, the United States, and South Korea.
Movies
12 Angry Men (1957)
This classic courtroom drama about justice, doubt, and civil courage centers on twelve jurors who must reach a verdict in a murder trial involving a young defendant. While eleven initially vote “guilty,” one man begins to question the evidence—prompting critical discussions that make everyone reconsider. The movie gradually reveals how prejudice and emotion can influence a verdict.
Streaming options: Amazon Prime, Apple TV
Legally Blonde (2001)
This comedy follows the young Elle Woods, played by Reese Witherspoon. Blonde, fashion-loving, and underestimated by those around her, Elle applies to Harvard Law School to win back her ex-boyfriend. To everyone’s surprise, she impresses with her intelligence, charm, and strong sense of justice.
Streaming options: Amazon Prime, RTL+, Apple TV
Anatomy of a Murder (1959)
A former prosecutor takes on the defense of a soldier accused of murdering a bartender. The case appears straightforward at first – but the deeper the lawyer digs, the more complex the truth becomes. The line between law and morality begins to blur. A gripping courtroom classic featuring authentic legal proceedings, strong characters, and a realistic look into the U.S. criminal justice system.
Streaming options: Amazon Prime, Apple TV
The Children Act (2017)
Respected judge Fiona Maye, played by Emma Thompson, faces a heartbreaking decision: a 17-year-old boy with leukemia refuses a life-saving blood transfusion due to religious beliefs. As Fiona struggles to deliver a legally sound yet humane verdict, her own convictions begin to waver. A sensitive and thought-provoking drama that masterfully explores ethical and legal dilemmas.
Streaming options: Amazon Prime, Apple TV
Just Mercy (2019)
Bryan Stevenson, a young and idealistic Harvard graduate, fights for innocent death row inmates in Alabama. His first major case is that of Walter McMillian, who was convicted of murder without evidence. Together with activist Eva Ansley, Stevenson takes on a justice system shaped by racism. The movie is based on the true story of a lawyer who waged a landmark fight for justice.
Streaming options: Amazon Prime, Apple TV
Series
Boston Legal (2004-2008)
At the law firm Crane, Poole & Schmidt in Boston, brilliant attorneys handle ethically questionable cases, while eccentric characters offer sharp social commentary. The series balances humor, legal drama, and moral ambiguity with wit and heart. Perfect for those who enjoy legal themes with a touch of satire.
Streaming options: Joyn, Disney+
The Good Wife (2009-2016)
After a public scandal involving her husband, Alicia Florrick resumes her career as a lawyer. Amid law firm politics, personal challenges, and politically charged cases, the show paints a layered portrait of a modern woman in law.
Streaming options: Amazon Prime, Apple TV
Suits (2011-2019)
Mike Ross has a photographic memory but no law degree. Nevertheless, he is hired by top attorney Harvey Specter at a prestigious New York firm. The series chronicles their fast-paced life of courtroom battles, legal deals, and office intrigue—with plenty of style and wit. It offers a (glamorized) look at the world of corporate law firms.
Streaming options: Netflix, Amazon Prime, Apple TV
How to Get Away with Murder (2014-2020)
Mysterious, charismatic, and brilliant criminal law professor Annalise Keating, played by Viola Davis, selects five students from Middleton Law School to work on real-life cases. Soon, they all become entangled in an actual murder—and the lines between teaching, loyalty, and the law begin to blur. The characters become enmeshed in a web of lies and secrets, pushing the limits of legality and morality. The series blends legal strategy with personal drama and delivers high tension with many plot twists.
Streaming options: Netflix, Apple TV, Amazon Prime
Law School (2021)
A mysterious murder shocks an elite law school in Seoul. As the investigation unfolds, students and professors are drawn into a spiral of suspicion, legal analysis, and personal motives—and must prove how well they truly understand the law, both in theory and in practice. A gripping look at legal education and justice culture in South Korea.
Streaming options: Netflix
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