The Paper Chase isn't a terrible movie, but its preconceptions are all wrong: it's about an un-situation and un-people.

The Paper Chase has some great performances, literate screenwriting, sensitive direction and handsome production.

A muddled and slick 'youth' film.

The pacing is a touch too slow, dawdling here and there with minor matters (including an absurd showdown with a hotel manager) that may intermittently aid in realism but simultaneously stretch out the runtime.