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Rick LeFevour
Stunts -
Linda Perlin
Stunts -
Bill Roe
Camera Operator -
Carin Rogers
Supervising Dialogue Editor -
Phill Norman
Title Designer -
Phil Hetos
Color Timer -
Denney Pierce
Stunts -
Noon Orsatti
Stunts
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CinemaSerf 6/30/2022 7:36:24 PM
I was never the greatest fan of Richard Gere, but this is certainly one of his better performances. He is cocky lawyer "Vail", adept at ensuring his criminal fraternity clients evade justice. When the shocking news that an archbishop has been savagely murdered is announced, he decides on a bit of pro-bono work to defend the young "Aaron" (Ed Norton) against the prosecuting skills of his ex-girlfriend "Janet" (Laura Linney). As the courtroom drama unfolds, though, we soon establish that there are undertones that call into question not just who did what to whom, but also the integrity of the victim and of many of his well-connected associates. The film belongs to Norton, though. As his character develops, with the assistance of probing psychologist "Molly" (Frances McDormand), we discover that there are quirks to his character that this actor delivers superbly. So much falls into place in the last ten minutes, or so, before a denouement that is both unexpected and perversely quite fitting. It is a bit too long, and takes maybe half an hour before it starts to simmer; but once the plot starts to advance in earnest, this becomes a superior crime thriller with twists, turns and strong performances throughout.
Richard Gere
Martin VailTerry O'Quinn
YancyEdward Norton
AaronMaura Tierney
NaomiFrances McDormand
MollyLaura Linney
Janet VenableJon Seda
AlexSteven Bauer
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