Main Cast: Matthew McConaughey, Marisa Tomei, Ryan Phillippe, William H.Macy
Plot Summary: A defense attorney struggles with the moral and tangible implications of his job when he learns his latest client is practiced at beating the system.
The Good: - I was pleasantly surprised by McConaughey's performance! I've never been his biggest fan. His southern drawl in films such as How to Lose A Guy in 10 Days and Failure to Launch, doesn't leave you thinking of him as the most credible of actors. But watching The Lincoln Lawyer (and the day before that A Time to Kill- another good film to watch!) I've realised that he can be more than an annoying love interest. His portrayal of the somewhat sleazy and extremely resourceful lawyer, Mick Haller, who fears not being able to recognise innocence, is both truthful and captivating. McConaughey carries us along effortlessly, leaving us both rooting for and pitying Haller and his career.
-The plot is really quite interesting and reflective of a system many have issues with. The big lawyer question "Would you rather send an innocent man to jail, or let a guilty man go free?" is heavily present throughout. There are plenty of legal thrillers out there, and The Lincoln Lawyer sits comfortably and successfully among them.
The Bad: - As much as I enjoyed McConaughey, I despised Ryan Phillipe. Whilst the former managed to change my opinion of him, the latter did not. Phillipe is the same in ever film, no matter who he plays. His attempts at an intense stare, or the way his mouth awkwardly forms words just leaves me wanting to throw things at the screen. We all have our pet peeves, and he is definitely one of mine. Get him out of Hollywood. Please.
Memorable Moment: -Haller's "business meeting" with bikers in his "office"- his Lincoln car.
Score: 7/10
Verdict: If you're a fan of legal battles, lawyer mumbo jumbo, and any films that involve a courthouse, you'll get on well with The Lincoln Lawyer. A decent watch that might not change your life philosophy, but will certainly leave you feeling cinematically satisfied whilst perhaps having you question the legal system.
