
Absence of Malice(1981)
“In America can a man be guilty until proven innocent?”
Overview
Megan Carter is a reporter duped into running an untrue story on Michael Gallagher, a suspected racketeer. He has an alibi for the time his crime was allegedly committed—but it involves an innocent party. When he tells Carter the truth and the newspaper runs it, tragedy follows, forcing Carter to face up to the responsibilities of her job when she is confronted by Gallagher.
Director
Sydney Pollack
Studio
Mirage Enterprises
Budget
$12M
Revenue
$41M
Cast

Sally Field
as Megan Carter

Paul Newman
as Michael Colin Gallagher

Bob Balaban
as Elliott Rosen

Melinda Dillon
as Teresa Perrone

Luther Adler
as Santos Malderone

Barry Primus
as Robert Waddell

Josef Sommer
as McAdam

John Harkins
as Davidek

Don Hood
as James A. Quinn

Wilford Brimley
as James J. Wells
Arnie Ross
as Eddie Frost

Barbara Keegan
as News Staff
Where to Watch
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Movie Facts
Release Year
1981
Runtime
1h 56m
Language
English
Rating
6.6 / 10
Budget
$12M
Box Office
$41M
Production Companies
Mirage Enterprises • Columbia Pictures
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Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I watch Absence of Malice?▼
Check the "Where to Watch" section above for current streaming platforms, rental options, and purchase links for Absence of Malice (1981).
What is Absence of Malice about?▼
Megan Carter is a reporter duped into running an untrue story on Michael Gallagher, a suspected racketeer. He has an alibi for the time his crime was allegedly committed—but it involves an innocent party. When he tells Carter the truth and the newspaper runs it, tragedy follows, forcing Carter to face up to the responsibilities of her job when she is confronted by Gallagher.
Who directed Absence of Malice?▼
Absence of Malice was directed by Sydney Pollack and released in 1981. It is a drama, romance, crime film.
How long is Absence of Malice?▼
Absence of Malice has a runtime of 1 hours and 56 minutes (116 minutes total).
Who stars in Absence of Malice?▼
The cast of Absence of Malice includes Sally Field as Megan Carter, Paul Newman as Michael Colin Gallagher, Bob Balaban as Elliott Rosen, Melinda Dillon as Teresa Perrone, Luther Adler as Santos Malderone and more.
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