The Pelican Brief (1993)
A law student uncovers a vast conspiracy of murder and corruption, leading to a tense, gritty pursuit.
A law student's theory about the recent deaths of two Supreme Court justices embroils her in a far-reaching web of murder, corruption, and greed.
How intense is The Pelican Brief?
The Pelican Brief is mildly scary, with light gore and strong violence. Emotionally it is heavy. The pace is measured, and it is a full-attention watch. Rated PG-13.
What The Pelican Brief feels like
- Tone
- suspensefulgrittypulpytense
- Pace
- Measured
- Best for
- Full attention
Where to stream The Pelican Brief
US availability via TMDB, last checked Sep 16, 2026. The app filters picks to the services you actually have.
Is The Pelican Brief for you?
Is The Pelican Brief scary?
Only a little. The Pelican Brief has a few tense moments (scare level 1 of 3), nothing that follows you to bed.
Is The Pelican Brief gory or violent?
Light gore (1 of 3) and strong violence (2 of 3).
Is The Pelican Brief sad or heavy?
It is emotionally heavy (2 of 3). Expect it to land.
Is The Pelican Brief OK for kids?
It is rated PG-13. Intensity: scare 1, gore 1, violence 2, each out of 3. Your call for older kids.
How long is The Pelican Brief?
The Pelican Brief runs 2h 21m.
Where can I stream The Pelican Brief?
The Pelican Brief is streaming on YouTube (free).
Does The Pelican Brief have a happy ending? spoiler-safe answer
Bittersweet. It earns its ending, but not everyone gets what they want.
Cast and crew
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