In small-town Michigan, Army man Ben Gazzara fatally avenges wife Remick’s assault—plunging them into brinksmanship with defense attorney James Stewart and prosecutor George C. Scott. Preminger courted controversy with his frank filmization of the best seller; good box office, Oscar nods including Best Picture, and the first of Remick’s six Golden Globe nominations followed. Scored by Duke Ellington, also seen in his final on-screen appearance.