I must be honest, I've never been a fan of courtroom dramas. I don't really know why but if I was given a choice between an afternoon watching ''A Few Good Men'' and redecorating the flat, hand me a paint brush. Perhaps its due to the fact that as a young boy I wanted to be a barrister and I am overcome with jealousy when I see fictional characters arguing fictional cases in fictional courtrooms. Or perhaps ''Legally Blonde'' put me off for good. Either way, its not usually my cup of tea. Nonetheless, I could not help but enjoy ''The Lincoln Lawyer''. A crime drama with a difference, it is certainly one of the most entertaining films I've watched recently.
The film is adapted from a novel of the same name written by Michael Connelly. The plot is quite simple. Micky Haller (Matthew Mc Conaughey) is a Los Angeles criminal defense attorney who has developed a reputation for successfully defending some of the state's more unsavoury characters. A hard working attorney with a unique attention to detail, Haller's impressive portfolio and track record of successful cases eventually culminates in the biggest case of his career: defending Louis Roulet (Ryan Phillipe) who is accused of brutally beating a prostitute in her home. Roulet is the son of a wealthy businesswoman Mary Windsor (Frances Fisher) and as such Haller brazenly demands a large salary. However, what innitially seems like the best opportunity of his life, soon becomes a nightmare for Haller as he discovers that Roulet is a viscious psychopath with a history of violence. As the case draws nearer and Haller begins to have second thoughts about his client, Roulet threatens Haller and his family. The intimidation reaches a head when Haller's investigator Frank Levin (William H. Macy) is found dead at his home. Haller then realises that he must put his ego to one side and protect those closest to him, namely his daughter and ex wife Maggie McPherson (Marisa Tomei)
This film could have easily been forgettable had it not been for the powerful acting. First of all, and I really mean this, hats off to Matthew McConaughey, a man I once reffered to as Mr Romantic Comedy. I stand corrected! McConaughey proves himself to be a very talented actor and is perfect for the role. His character is a slick, arrogant and materialistic lawyer and McConaughey portrays him brilliantly. His laid back style of acting really fits well with the character and McConaughey makes the role his own. Irresistably cool and sophisticated, it is hard to imagine another actor playing the part with such effortless poise.
The villian of the piece, Louis Roulet is played by Ryan Phillipe. To be completely honest, I would probably not have gone to see this film if it wasnt for him playing the antagonist. Ever since ''Cruel Intentions'' and his stunning portrayal of lecherous fiend Sebastian Valmont, I've been a fan of Phillipe. As far as I'm concerned, Phillipe is at his best when playing an absolute creep. I like his portrayal of Roulet for the same reason that I liked his portrayal of Valmont : because no matter how horrible or manipulative the character is, there is always a charm and sophistication about him. As the film progresses and it becomes clear just how viscious and depraved his character is, Phillipe powerfully demonstrates this unique talent as an actor.
The film also boasts a strong supporting cast. Marissa Tomei is impressive as Haller's estranged wife as is William H. Macy as his investigator. Another actress worth mentioning is young Mackenzie Aladjem who does a very good job in her role as Haller's daughter Hayley.
For someone who generally avoids courtroom dramas, this film really impressed me. Its slick, clever, at times funny and definately worth a watch
