Abby Mann is one of the foremost writers of prestigious social problem movies. In his handful of screenplays Mann has addressed such problems as fascism, police corruption, and mental retardation. His films are often powerful, thought-provoking experiences.

Born Abraham Goodman, in Philadelphia, Mann was educated at public schools before attending Temple University in Pennsylvania and New York University. He became involved with the theater while at college, writing five plays for student productions: "Freud Has a Word for It," "The Happiest Days," "Exodus," "Sweet Lorraine," and "Just Around the Corner." When World War II erupted Mann joined the army.

In the 1950s Mann began writing for television, working on such dramatic anthology series as Playhouse 90, Studio One, and Alcoa Goodyear Theatre. It was one of his television scripts that brought him his first screenwriting assignment; in 1961, Stanley Kramer hired him to expand "Judgment at Nuremberg" to feature film...