A film I have been eagerly waiting to come out on PPV arrived last week. The Lincoln Lawyer starring Mathew McConaughey was worth the wait. As usual with summer activities, my time normally set aside to read, sew or catch a good movie has become almost nonexistent. But when I saw this movie was out, I made time to watch it.
Mathew was perfect for this role as a criminal lawyer, Mick Haller. The title, The Lincoln Lawyer is in reference to the fact that Mick sits in the back of a large, black, and shiny Lincoln, while a driver/friend takes care of the driving. You learn that Mick had his license suspended for a time and thus the need for the driver. The back of the car is literally his office. His office travels the street of Los Angeles.
Laurence Mason, though he only has short moments in the plot, plays the driver. Mason took that small role and gave it some substance. Mason has had some good roles on the smaller screen in Prison Break and The Shield.
You learn quickly that Mick is smoooooth. Not only does he represent those who live a hard life on the streets, he is street smart. It is a glimpse into how the system can be manipulated easily. But, that is not a new insight. William H. Macy plays Mick’s private investigator and he too was perfect for this part. William’s role in Fargo will forever be a favorite of mine, yah. Marisa Tomei, who just seems to get even more beautiful with age, is Mick’s ex-wife, mother of his only daughter and an Assistant District Attorney.
All though you don’t get to see him much, Trace Adkins is a Harley riding, leader of a gang, who looked like he walked right out of that life. He too was perfect for this side role. I know I keep saying that, but well, it is the truth.
The story sets you up with getting to see Mick Haller do his business and do it well. You like him even though he is one of the folks who defend the bad guys, from petty charges to capital murder. One trait you see about Mick is he really does care about people and what he considers right and wrong. It also becomes clear that his job is his life. He has important areas to the side, but his life is his job.
A new case comes along that changes everything. Ryan Phillippe is the young, handsome and very rich Louis Roulet. He is charged with an array of crimes, including attempted rape and murder. Oh and his mama is a true matriarch in the full sense. This role has Frances Fisher who you might remember from the great western, Unforgiven with Clint Eastwood. Fisher played the outspoken prostitute and protector of the girls who work the same saloon, in a town who has Gene Hackman as the Sheriff you love to hate. Some might not know that in her real life Frances has a daughter by Clint Eastwood.
Rich guy very quickly claims the known prostitute saw him as a ticket to some major money, and set the whole thing up, while passionately claiming his innocence. The story then kicks into high gear and you don’t ease off the edge of your seat until the credits are rolling. I liked the character of Mick Haller so much I would like seeing him in another movie.
The movie had such an easy flow you feel like you are right in there with all these characters. The director of this film, Brad Thurman, has done well in Hollywood in smaller capacities. This film I wager will be his “break out” accomplishment.
This movie is based on the best seller by the same title written by Michael Connelly. I don’t think I have read anything by Connelly. But the chances are high that I have and I just don’t remember what. I am going to find out though if Mick Haller is a recurring character by Connelly. 
This movie is rated R and is a fast 2-hour ride. As I said the movie is out on PPV as well as Netflix, and Redbox.
If you get a chance I highly recommend you see this one. It may be the last movie I see until the summer winds down, but this one was one I enjoyed so much it will stay with me for a while.
I hope you all have a great week, take care and stay safe,
KJ
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