The Lincoln Lawyer

Welcome back Matthew McConaughey! How nice to see this fine actor in something other than a romcom. With his good looks and swagger, he's just so lazy at picking his roles. By my calculations it's been around fifteen years since he's been in something that showcases his talents (other than his sex appeal and pecs). Unless you count 'Two for the Money' with Al Pacino, which was a good film, but it bombed. In my 'Limitless' blog, I mentioned that some actors don't really have that certain something to carry a film, well this one does, in bucket loads. Like him or loathe him, the man got charisma. Anyway, on to the movie. Mick Haller (McConaughey) is a borderline alcoholic lawyer, who after losing his licence hires a driver and works from his car, a lincoln, so he's the lincoln lawyer, get it?. He is hired to defend a rich young man Louis Roulet (Ryan Phillipe) who has been accused of brutally assaulting a young woman. Roulet categorically denies his guilt and Haller has to piece together the events of the night in question. He is ably assisted by his old friend Frank (William H Macy) and regularly 'bumps into' his ex-wife Maggie (Marisa Tomei) who herself works for the Justice Dept and is the mother of his daughter. During the investigation Mick has to uncover whether the victim is trying extort money from his client, or could the case be linked to an old client of his? It's a great cast. All of the actors do a stellar job. Ryan Phillipe is excellent as the petulant spoilt man child who is evidently used to getting his own way. William H Macy is as solid and likeable as ever and it's really good to see Marisa Tomei again, especially in an intelligent role rather than the usual kooky dames she plays. In the mix as well are Josh Lucas (a McConaughey lookey likey), John Leguizamo, Frances Fisher, Bryan Cranston, Michael Pina and Bob Gunton. The story is twisty turny enough to keep you interested, and it's an enjoyable, imaginative if forgettable film. THE LINCOLN LAWYER: I couldn't possibly testify until I ascertained how comfy the back seat is, your Honour.7/10.