Perhaps the most impressive trait that any person can possess is the ability to resist social constrictions in order to follow his own moral convictions. With this in mind, the individual courage that John Travolta's character exhibits in A Civil Action not only inspires me, but also reassures me of the strength of simple humanity and compassion.
In the course of this movie, Travolta's character undergoes a dramatic change that explores the difficulties of individuality and morality among the secular world. Travolta's character is introduced to the audience as a cold-hearted trial lawyer, concerned with wealth and social standing. When a case concerning the poisoning of local children by a large company is presented before Travolta, his character dismisses the case immediately, because of the lack of financial reward. While moments of humanity and compassion are exhibited by Travolta, clearly this attitude is indicative of Travolta's skewed vision of what is truly important in his life. At the time the case is presented, Travolta works for a small law firm, comprised of him and three other lawyers. The firm shares Travolta's belief at the futility of the case, and exhibits the same shallow qualities. .
A change of course causes Travolta to reexamine the case and his own motives for serving his clients. Travolta takes the case at first only because it is a potential for financial reward. The audience watches Travolta's transformation as he becomes involved in the lives and problems of the children and their family. As his involvement gets deeper, and the possibility for a victory becomes less, Travolta must make a near impossible decision. He must now choose between his social standing and financial status or turn his back on the moral obligation he now feels towards the plight of the defendants.
As Travolta's situation becomes direr, the audience witnesses a transformation of heart and character as Travolta's individual courage takes him above his former material possessions and helps him stand firmly against the criticism and rejection of his peers.
