Court-rooms have fascinated people for decades. Within its confines lies a cauldron of truth, lies and drama. It is hardly a surprise that court rooms have fuelled many films and TV shows.
The Judge utilises its dramatic vistas by mixing a familial conflict within the mystery. A solid tale of past regrets and current predicaments, The Judge shows why the people’s court continues to enthral.
Successful lawyer Henry (Robert Downey Jnr) enjoys tackling tough cases. His most perilous involves his father Joseph (Robert Duvall), a respected judge arrested for murder. Father and son team to solve the crime despite their strained relationship. Facing zealous prosecutor Dwight Dickham (Billy Bob Thornton), they sift through the clues. Attempting to mend their broken bond, they try to make peace with the past and forge new horizons.
Directed with insightful flair by David Dobkin, The Judge is engaging. In spite of a long run-time and over-abundance of sub-plots, it’s an intriguing examination of familial connections. Henry and Joseph are equally stubborn with their ragged personalities continually pushing them apart. Only when they confront their issues can they aim for a successful judicial outcome. The courtroom scenes match the intensity of the personal dramas with both providing fascinating viewing.
None of this would succeed without the strong performances. Downey Jnr and Duvall show why they are such good actors. You truly believe in their characters’ fractured association even though it’s often uncomfortable to witness. Like the multi-layered screenplay, their interplay is funny, sad, frustrating and moving. They are aided by an excellent supporting cast whose quest for creating a quality production is evident.
The Judge ensures courtroom dramas can still captivate. Whilst it could have done with some studious editing, it successfully expresses its many themes. As long as there are people, courts will always mete out justice and provide fodder for TV and movies for years to come.
Reviewed by Patrick Moore
Twitter: @PatrickMoore14
Rating out of 10: 7