The Lincoln Lawyer is a legal thriller movie released in 2011. Directed by Brad Furman, the movie revolves around a successful defense attorney, Mickey Haller, played by Matthew McConaughey. With a cast including Marisa Tomei, Ryan Philippe, Josh Lucas, and John Leguizamo, the movie is produced by Lakeshore Entertainment, Sidney Kimmel Entertainment, and Stone Village Pictures. This article contains a detailed movie synopsis and review.
Synopsis
Mickey Haller is a successful defense attorney in LA County, California. Throughout his career, he has handled various criminal cases for the lower class. One day, he gets a high-profile client, Louis Roulet, the son of real estate tycoon Mary Windsor. Roulet is accused of assaulting a prostitute named Regina Campo. He claims to be innocent and says that he was set up.
Assisted by Frank Levin, Haller investigates Campo’s photos and evidence. The case reminds Haller of another case he handled, where Jesus Martinez was sentenced to life imprisonment for the alleged killing of another prostitute. Martinez always maintained his innocence to Haller.
Maggie McPherson, Haller’s ex-wife, is a prosecutor who dislikes Haller representing people who are guilty. Haller is still confused about his decision to seek Martinez’s leniency. Despite being unsure that Martinez is the killer, Haller believes that Roulet is the real killer. However, as an attorney, he cannot reveal what he knows due to ethical constraints. Roulet is disappointed that Haller is not successful in freeing him.
He later intrudes Haller’s home and confesses that he is the real culprit and not Martinez. Roulet then threatens to harm Maggie and Haller’s child. Haller is powerless because of his status as Roulet’s lawyer. In a shocking incident, Levin is found dead due to gunshot wounds. The detective suspects Haller to be involved in Levin’s murder.
Haller is confident that Roulet stole his gun when he broke into his house. In court, Haller presents a reverse evidence argument. He discredits Campo and sets up his informant to trap Roulet. By doing so, Roulet is acquitted of the charges against him. The police arrest Roulet based on Haller’s informant’s testimony. But, the lack of evidence results in Roulet’s release. Roulet then seeks revenge and plans to murder Haller’s ex-wife and child. Can Haller put Roulet in prison?
Review
The Lincoln Lawyer is a legal thriller that is easy to comprehend. The movie presents legal terms such as evidence, testimony, and attorney ethics in an easily digestible format. The courtroom techniques are also well-portrayed, including the presentation of witnesses, cross-examination, and plea-bargaining.
The movie’s plot is unpredictable and intriguing, keeping the audience engaged throughout. Besides the complexity of analyzing evidence and murder patterns, the movie effectively portrays the moral dilemma an attorney faces while defending a guilty client. There are ample amounts of intrigue for each character to achieve their objectives.
Conclusion
In conclusion, The Lincoln Lawyer is a great watch for legal thriller enthusiasts. The movie’s plot is well-developed, and the characters are well-portrayed, making it an enjoyable movie. Matthew McConaughey’s performance as Mickey Haller is remarkable, providing an overall excellent viewing experience.
