The Judge (2014) Review in 2025
The Judge is a drama film that tells the story of a successful lawyer who returns to his hometown for his mother's funeral, only to find himself at odds with his estranged father, a tough-as-nails judge.
Family-Friendly Rating
Is this movie suitable for family viewing?
This movie is not suitable for young children due to mature themes and some strong language.
CineReview Recommendation
This movie is worth watching for fans of drama and thriller genres. However, viewers who prefer faster-paced movies may find it a bit slow.
Spoiler Alert!
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The Judge is a drama film that tells the story of a successful lawyer who returns to his hometown for his mother's funeral, only to find himself at odds with his estranged father, a tough-as-nails judge. As the story unfolds, the lawyer's father is accused of murder, and the lawyer must navigate his complicated past to clear his father's name.
Review Details
story8.00/10
The story is engaging and well-paced, with a complex plot that explores themes of family, loyalty, and redemption. However, some viewers may find the pacing a bit slow in the second half.
acting9.00/10
The acting is excellent, with Robert Downey Jr. delivering a nuanced and emotional performance. The supporting cast is also excellent, particularly Robert Duvall and Vera Farmiga.
characters9.00/10
The characters are well-developed and complex, with Robert Downey Jr. delivering a standout performance as the lawyer. The supporting cast is also excellent, particularly Robert Duvall as the judge.
direction8.00/10
The direction is solid, with David Dobkin bringing out the best in his cast. However, some viewers may find the cinematography a bit dull at times.
cinematography6.00/10
The cinematography is adequate, but it doesn't particularly stand out. The camera work is sometimes shaky, and the lighting can be uneven.
Pros and Cons
Pros
The Judge is a well-crafted drama film with excellent performances from its cast. The story is engaging and complex, and the themes of family and redemption are timely and thought-provoking.
Cons
The pacing can be slow at times, and the cinematography is sometimes dull. However, these minor flaws do not detract from the overall enjoyment of the movie.
Notable Quotes
"I'm not a lawyer, I'm a judge."
"I'm not a liar, I'm a judge."
"You're not a lawyer, you're a liar."
