If memory serves correctly, when The Lincoln Lawyer was released in 2011, I was there on opening weekend. I remember thoroughly enjoying this drama about a lawyer who takes on the wrong client. Recently, I introduced my wife to the guy who runs his operations out of the back seat of a Lincoln.
Matthew McConaughey can play a variety of roles, although some may argue he’s more famous for comedic roles. I think one of his best characters is in this film, as Mick Haller. He is smart, cunning, and fearless. He has to go head to head with unknown career criminal Louis Roulet, played by Ryan Phillippe. I call him a career criminal because he’s been beating up women for years and never got caught until now. Louis manages to secure Haller’s services, only to become his worse nightmare.
There will be bribes, lies, blood, and murder. Minor characters will play vital roles as a simple open and shut case that spirals out of control. Probably one of the best parts of the overall story arc is the character Jesus Martinez, played by Michael Pena. Any prominent shot lawyer will have skeletons in their closet, Martinez just happens to be Haller’s. It is amazing how a different perspective on a specific event can really alter someone’s fortunes.
A long time ago, we reviewed some of the best courtroom movies. Although The Lincoln Lawyer was in the rotation, we were not selected for this particular film. I convinced my wife this was a great film and definitely needed to be seen at least once. Even if you don’t like McConaughey (there are a few of you out there), you will marvel at his performance in this one. 9/10
Ten Stars or Less 