High Crimes 2002

Attorney Claire Kubik (Ashley Judd) and her husband Tom (James Caviezel), a woodworker, appeared to be living a blissful life in Marin County, California. Just as Claire was preparing to become a partner at her law firm and start a family, their world crumbled. One fateful day, while shopping in San Francisco’s Union Square, Tom was suddenly arrested by the FBI, accused of a heinous crime involving the murders of nine unarmed civilians during a military operation in El Salvador back in 1990, a case led by Special Agent Mullins (Tom Bower).

Upon learning that Tom’s true identity is Ronald Chapman, Claire faces an emotional upheaval. Despite their plans for a future together, Ron unveils a buried past filled with covert military operations that spanned over a decade. The DNA and fingerprints collected during a recent burglary lead to the shocking revelation of his true identity, shaking the very foundations of Claire’s understanding of their life together. Amidst tears, Ron insists he is an innocent man trapped in a web of accusations.

Determined not to abandon her husband, Claire resolves to fight for Tom’s innocence, diving headfirst into a harrowing legal battle that soon reveals a disturbing cover-up. Tom recounts the events leading up to the tragic incident: a café bombing in Monte Azul linked to a rebel named Danilo Chacon, which set off a chain reaction of violence resulting in the deaths of innocent villagers. Tom claims he was merely following orders from Major James Hernandez (Juan Carlos Hernandez), who had become the real culprit behind the massacre. Each revelation tears at Claire’s heart, yet she remains resolute in her quest for justice.

With an inexperienced attorney, First Lieutenant Terence Embry (Adam Scott), initially assigned to defend Tom, Claire’s legal expertise compels her to take over the defense. Unfortunately, leaving her successful career at the firm casts shadows over her family’s reputation. In her desperation, Claire enlists the help of Charlie Grimes (Morgan Freeman), a disillusioned former JAG attorney with a vendetta against military authorities.

As the courtroom saga unfolds, Claire discovers mounting evidence pointing towards a significant cover-up involving high-ranking military officials. With witnesses mysteriously dying or going missing, Claire’s resolve grows stronger as she collects gripping evidence that might exonerate her husband. The trial is plagued by intimidation and interference, including a chilling incident where Claire is attacked at home. However, with Charlie’s guidance and relentless dedication, Claire manages to navigate the treacherous waters of the military legal system.

Unexpected twists continue to unravel—accusations fly, and shocking revelations surface, including evidence that Tom may have murdered pivotal witnesses to silence them. As the narrative spirals into chaos, Claire stands firm against the overwhelming odds, rallying to protect both her husband and the truth. The stakes couldn’t be higher as Claire confronts the corrupt military establishment that threatens to doom both her quest for justice and her entire family.

Through resilience and sheer determination, Claire takes bold steps to unearth the truth. She confronts high-ranking officials, leading to a dramatic escalation of events that ultimately culminates in heartbreaking consequences. As the dust settles, Claire and Charlie vow to establish a new law firm, dedicated to fighting for justice in a world dominated by power and corruption, firmly believing that the truth—no matter how painful—must always prevail.