Andrew Beckett (Tom Hanks - Apollo 13), a promising young lawyer, finds his career cut short when he fired from the prestigious law firm he works for. They say he has not got what it takes. Andrew knows it's because he's got AIDS. Determined to defend his dignity and professional reputation, Andrew hires a small-time personal injury lawyer, Joe Miller (Denzel Washington - The Preacher's Wife), to sue his former employees for wrongful dismissal. Joe is initially reluctant to take on the case. Although he has grown up knowing the pain of prejudice, he's never had to confront his own prejudices against homosexuality and AIDS... until now. The two men launch an historic and moving struggle against society's ignorance and intolerance. One man is fighting for his reputation, his life and ultimately for justice. The other is battling to overcome his own society's prejudice and fear. And they are both fighting for something uniquely important. Philadelphia is one of the most powerful and critically acclaimed movies of our time.