Clever twists and a bona fide surprise ending make this an above-average courtroom thriller, tapping into the post-O.J. scrutiny of our legal system in the case of a hotshot Chicago defense attorney (Richard Gere) whose la... more »test client is an altar boy (Edward Norton) accused of murdering a Catholic archbishop. The film uses its own manipulation to tell a story about manipulation, and when we finally discover who's been pulling the strings, the payoff is both convincing and pertinent to the ongoing debate over what constitutes truth in the American system of justice. Making an impressive screen debut that has since led to a stellar career, Norton gives a performance that rides on a razor's edge of schizophrenic pathology--his role is an actor's showcase, and without crossing over the line of credibility, Norton milks it for all it's worth. Gere is equally effective in a role that capitalizes on his shifty screen persona, and Laura Linney and Frances McDormand give memorable performances in their intelligently written supporting roles. --Jeff Shannon« less
Robert M. (ambiant) from WILLOWICK, OH Reviewed on 4/30/2014...
If you like a few surprises and a twist or two at the end...
I'm not going to give anything away, but this is an excellent crime, courtroom, clever lawyer story.
A young altar boy is accused of killing an archbishop and is defended by a high power defense attorney who quickly learns things aren't as simple as they seem.
A series of clever plot twists leads to an astounding courtroom scene. And then by multiple surprises.
There are some graphic scenes, so the "R" rating is appropriate.
2 of 2 member(s) found this review helpful.
Golda S. from ROMULUS, MI Reviewed on 6/9/2011...
Not that Richard Gere is ever hard on the eyes, but this is truly one of his best! This mystery is filled with so many twists and turns, you will be on the edge of your seat until the very last minute!
Excellent also is Edward Norton and don't miss Frances McDermott.
0 of 2 member(s) found this review helpful.
NATHAN G. (guhmineheart) from BIRMINGHAM, AL Reviewed on 1/4/2011...
great performance from a *young* ed norton...!
0 of 2 member(s) found this review helpful.
S A A. (Learned2Heal) Reviewed on 10/21/2008...
This movie was the first I'd heard of Edward Norton. As you can see by all the awards he won, he is a force to be reckoned with. Awesome, awesome actor! The plot of the movie is interesting and quite riveting. But the reason it is so, is because of Edward Norton's portrayal of his character.
Richard Gere and Laura Linney do a fine job in their parts too. But without Edward Norton's input, this movie would be just a little better than mediocre, at best.
Well, I guess this review came out sounding like an ode to Edward Norton. And rightly so. Don't miss it!