THE LINCOLN LAWYER: HE CAN DEFEND ME ANYTIME

Mick Haller: I checked the list of people I trust

and your name ain't on it.

After watching this film, a friend turned to me and asked why it was called the Lincoln Lawyer until the closing shot where she noticed what kind of car he had been driving around in. That's just the kind of guy Mick Haller (Matthew McConaughey) is. To call him slick would be an understatement. He's the kind of guy that seemingly gives lawyers their bad images. He may not be honest all of the time and may bend the rules and drinks far too much, but yet he's still likable. This film takes place in the "real" Los Angeles; gritty, dirty and full of low-lives. Much to his surprise he is called in to represent a wealthy young man accused of rape, played eerily stone faced by Ryan Phillippe. Talk about a low life dressed in a nice suit. Haller discovers this and much more but a lawyer is obligated to provide the best defence for his client no matter if they are actually guilty or innocent. However, the rule breaker finds a few ways to dodge the bullets. William H. Macy plays Haller's friend and investigator. What I liked best is seeing a gay man portrayed on screen without the clear announcement that he is. That's the way it should be. Also fun was Marisa Tomei as Haller's ex wife and current sympathetic ear (and sympathetic other things!) This movie is as full of twists and turns as the Hollywood Hills and it keeps it exciting. It's a side of LA we don't often get to see sans the gang violence and racial tension. I thought McConaughey did a fine job walking a fine line between good and highly questionable. I was thoroughly entertained and would certainly recommend it.