The Judge
Phil Brown
Trial attorney at The Law Offices of Philip R. Brown
Where and with whom did you see the movie?
I saw the movie at Consolidated Theatres at Kahala Mall with my wife Sarah Brown.
Overall, what did you think?
The Judge is much like the Energizer Bunny, it keeps going and going and going. There was a fine movie somewhere in that two hours and 24 minutes.
The movie had some wonderful scenes and excellent performances.
But the film had so many storylines involving supporting characters, it detracted from the strength of the film, which was the relationship between Robert Duvall and Robert Downey Jr.
Without giving away the ending, what was one of your favorite scenes?
Every scene involving Robert Downey Jr. and Robert Duvall — two great actors. It was a pleasure to watch them.
There was not one memorable scene. The best scenes were when Duvall and Downey were simply interacting.
The courtroom scene in Chicago was ridiculous. The courtroom scenes involving Billy Bob Thornton as a top-notch prosecutor litigating against Downey Jr. were well done.
On a scale of one to four stars, what would you rate this film?
★★ 1/2.
What did you think of the cinematography?
It was beautifully filmed. It made Indiana look almost idyllic.
Was the message/theme clear?
Somewhat. The basic message/theme is clear. A prodigal son returns home to the father he could never please, only now the son must try to save his father.
However, the movie tries to tell so many other stories through supporting characters that the film loses focus.
Did it remind you of any other works of film?
Believe it or not, I rarely watch movies about lawyers. I think it is because the law is my career, the last thing I want to do in my free time is to think about work.
The movie it reminded me most of was the old Tom Hanks/Jackie Gleason film Nothing in Common.
Who would you recommend this movie to?
People who like movies about family, and who appreciate great acting. The performance by Robert Duvall, in particular.
Did any of the actors stand out?
Yes. Robert Duvall and Robert Downey Jr.
Did you identify with any of the characters?
I identified with Robert Duvall’s character as a father who worries about his children and as a lawyer who strives for excellence in his profession.
Did the soundtrack contribute significantly to the film?
It was a pleasing soundtrack and it supported the film.
Would you buy this movie when it comes out on DVD?
No. Although, to be fair, I have young children. We generally buy DVDs of movies made by Disney, Dreamworks, Pixar or Marvel.
What’s your favorite movie snack?
Popcorn and a Coke Icee.
On a different note, what’s new with you?
The Law Offices of Philip R. Brown celebrated its 17th anniversary Oct. 1. As a litigation boutique, we have been honored to serve the people of Hawaii in cases involving commercial litigation, real estate litigation and personal injury.
Anyone interested to learn more about my law firm can find us on the Internet at hawaii-attorney.net.
