Pub.lished Movie Reviews
The Judge (2014)
"The Judge" (2014) is a movie that, on paper, should be a compelling courtroom drama, boasting the talents of two brilliant actors. However, it is hamstrung by a very slow-moving script that fails to grip its audience. It's a common problem that courtroom dramas struggle to entertain, and unfortunately, this film doesn't even seem to make an effort.
Most courtroom dramas find their strength in focusing on the characters under threat, engaging the audience's sympathy and concern. Regrettably, in "The Judge," I find myself surprised at how little I care about any of the characters. It isn't that there's anything inherently unlikable about Robert Duvall's character. He is a judge estranged from his son, a big-city lawyer who is, by all accounts, the worst sort of person. The real issue lies in the disproportionate focus on the son, Hank Palmer, played by Robert Downey Jr. who, despite his best efforts, remains inherently unlikeable throughout the film.
The story unfolds as Hank returns to his childhood home when his father, the town's judge, is suspected of murder. Hank sets out to discover the truth, and in the process, attempts to reconnect with his estranged family. It's a premise ripe with potential for tension and emotional drama, but sadly, the execution falls flat.
To summarize: "The Judge" comes across as a missed opportunity. With a cast of such caliber, one would expect a more engaging narrative and characters worth investing in. Instead, we're left with a slow-moving script that fails to do its talented cast justice. Even as a fan of courtroom dramas and the two leading actors, I find little to recommend in this film.
- You are under the age of 13 as the movie contains some strong language and adult themes.
- You are sensitive to intense family drama or conflict.
- You prefer films that are light, uplifting or comedic.
- You are uncomfortable with scenes of illness or death.
- You dislike slow-paced storylines.
Spotlight (2015):
If you liked the courtroom drama and intense acting in "The Judge," you'll likely enjoy "Spotlight." This movie tells the gripping story of how Boston Globe's investigative journalists uncovered decades of child abuse within the local Catholic Archdiocese. The script is sharp, the direction meticulous, and performances are top-notch. It won Best Picture at the Oscars, reminding us of the profound impact that persistent journalism can have on society.
Fracture (2007):"Fracture" is a thriller-rich experience with high-stakes legal manoeuvres and twists. Anthony Hopkins and Ryan Gosling give exceptional performances as a cat-and-mouse game unfolds between a wealthy engineer and an ambitious district attorney. If you enjoyed the strategic courtroom battles in "The Judge," you will likely appreciate "Fracture."
August: Osage County (2013):"August: Osage County" is an intense, darkly comic family drama, like "The Judge." It showcases powerful performances, especially from Meryl Streep and Julia Roberts. The film thrives on its biting wit and brutal family confrontations. If you liked the intricate family dynamics and top-tier acting in "The Judge," this movie is for you.
A Time to Kill (1996):"A Time to Kill" is recommended for fans of "The Judge" who appreciated its courtroom drama and themes of justice. The movie revolves around a young attorney who defends a black man accused of murdering two men who attacked his daughter, leading to a racially charged trial. Powerful performances by Matthew McConaughey, Sandra Bullock, and Samuel L. Jackson and a gripping storyline make this film a must-watch.
Philadelphia (1993):A touchstone in Hollywood's portrayal of AIDS, "Philadelphia" features strong performances from Tom Hanks and Denzel Washington. This film breaks through the intolerance and ignorance about the disease. If you appreciated the themes of justice and societal issues in "The Judge," you might enjoy "Philadelphia."
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