Family is an inseparable bond that is endearing, remarkable, and yet, profusely tiring. A solid motive headlined in the new courtroom dramedy “The Judge”, from “Wedding Crashers” director David Dobkin. Featuring the flawless Robert Downey Jr, and the man, the legend, the iron caged, Robert Duvall.

Downey plays the “infamous” Hank Palmer, a big time-hot shot defense attorney, whose cruel tactics are heard of around the world. “A verdict that only money can buy” as one character says in the film. After the sudden passing of his mother, Hank must return home to his desolate rural town in Carlinville, Indiana. Hank is not on speaking terms with his father who presides as the town’s judge, and has for over forty years.

Along the way, Hank rekindles with his first love, Samantha (Vera Farmiga) along with seeing his brothers Glenn and Dale Palmer (Vincent D’Onofrio and Jeremy Strong). Of course with coming home bears new burdens, as suddenly Hank’s dad is being accused/charged of murder. Cue notorious defense attorney Dwight Dickhem (Billy Bob Thornton) whose thirst for justice flows through his veins. Hank must set the past aside, and make sure his father has a future.

David Dobkin, a man known for his broad comedies, seemed like an oddball choice when I first saw his name attached as a director. Obviously those thoughts were thwarted when I saw exactly how he handled the more personal and in-tone scenes. Specifically between Downey and Duvall, which together make a rare feature to be seen in cinemas. Duvall being a decade older than his seventy-ish character is woefully transcendent when watching on the big screen. Not many film legends can command the screen like they once could do. However, Duvall at 83 years old makes it look easy, and I found myself constantly learning through his vigorous and heartbreaking performance.

Downey Jr, not being in a suit of Iron or being a sleuth detective, is wonderfully grounded but still the same Downey Jr we fell head over heels for in “Iron Man”. I would actually argue his performance here is more real and captivating… but that’s another story. While Duvall is top notch, Downy is even better. Keeping the pace, the cocky-arrogant attitude, the always smarter than everyone in the room ego, and after seeing this, solidifying him as one of the most talented actors working today. I can express that when I say the pairing of Duvall and Downy was something that sounded good on paper and then exploded on the screen.

In comparison; Vera Farmiga, Vincent D’Onofrio, Jeremy Strong, and Billy Bob Thornton add strength and complexity to the already well written script. Farmiga especially, as she adds more to such a throwaway character whose only purpose seems to be a romantic love interest that Downey can snuggle with. Equally, Thornton is a behemoth and grizzly as the ruthless, Dwight Dickem. Yes, that is his name…Dwight Dickem.

Thanks in part to a nicely condensed, albeit, compelling screenplay..”The Judge” perfectly balances the melodramaticism with broader and light-hearted comedy. Something that “This Is Where I Leave You” (A fellow Warner Bros. Picture) failed to do just last month. The court-room scenes are shot perfectly and the ending sequence was tightly knitted and well-edited.

There are many high points in “The Judge” along with some low points. Some may be turned off quickly by how overstuffed scenarios may seem at times. I knew as soon as I left, I immediately wanted second helpings, in order to enhance the overall visual splendour. I admired the cinematography immensely.

When “The Judge” really kicks into gear is when I truly gave myself up. Believe me, I had high expectations walking into the picture and not only were they eclipsed, but saturated substantially. I expect a few more films to follow suit, as the award season heats up. Just don’t expect this one to walk away with many nominations. Don’t be surprised if Duvall snags one for Best Supporting Actor. As for the rest of the film? “The Judge” contains a heightened sensitivity to the promises of life. A simplistic view on family ties, and brotherhood. You know what? I feel like the job was more than successful.

A+

By: Nate Adams

Directed By: David Dobkin

Rated: R

Runtime: 140 mins

Studio: Warner Bros.

Release Date: October 10th 2014

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