The Advocate (1994) [R]

Colin Firth, in one of his first non-television movies, plays a French lawyer who leaves 15th century Paris in search of a simpler lifestyle as a public defender in a rural province . However, country life is not as simple and innocent as he thought it would be. He finds himself dragged into political and amorous intrigues, including having to defend a pig!

In those days, animals that caused trouble, especially deaths, were tried in court, just as people were. Because, after all, as the public prosecutor says, "Anyone who knows animals knows there are good ones and bad ones." Early in the movie we see a man and his she-ass being prepared for hanging for having carnal knowledge of each other. However, the donkey is pardoned "without stain to her character." The man is then hanged!

This is a dark comedy. Originally titled The Hour of the Pig, the name was changed for American distribution and cut by 15 minutes. It is still an enjoyable movie, with laughter, romance, mystery, intrigue, gypsies, animals, and politics.
 
Colin Firth is charming, as usual, though it is interesting to see him as he is just starting to carry a movie as the star and romantic lead. You'll also enjoy his many hats!

DIRECTOR: Leslie Megahey.  CAST: Colin Firth, Amina Annabi, Jim Carter, Donald Pleasence, Ian Holm, Nicol Williamson, Lysette Anthony.