McConaughey’s Shyster Is Likable in the “Lincoln Lawyer”

Defense lawyers possess a negative reputation in our society, because they are frequently placed in an ethically difficult position.  This is because it is their responsibility to stand up for the defendant regardless of guilt or innocence.

Unless they are court appointed, most lawyers will avoid taking cases, where they have ascertained the person is guilty.  The less morally inclined ones however, are willing to accept a client whose culpability is uncertain, if the price is right.

Mick Haller (Matthew McConaughey), our protagonist in “The Lincoln Lawyer,” is just such an individual.  The suave, street smart attorney makes a living defending petty thugs and criminals, operating out of the backseat of his Lincoln Continental.  He takes payment in the form of cash envelopes and favors, which his clients are willing to sacrifice for his services.

His business model works pretty smoothly, until an unusual client is dropped into Mick’s lap.  A wealthy playboy, Louis Roulet (Ryan Phillippe), is accused of assaulting a woman, and it seems like a textbook attempt of extortion.  Mick takes the case because he thinks it will be an easy payday, but he soon discovers that things are much more complex, as more evidence surfaces to support the prosecution.

Armed with this information, Mick attempts to confront Louis, who has already taken steps to keep Mick in his pocket.  The frightened Mick finds himself in over his head, as he experiences a first-time crisis of conscience.  In order to keep the people safe that he cares about, Mick must engage in a dangerous battle of wits with Louis, which will take every ounce of his intelligence and daring.

Matthew McConaughey provides the perfect balance of smooth operator and vulnerable family man as Mick Haller.  He channels a courtroom presence which exudes confidence, charm, and even a sense of humor.

McConaughey entertains, but attention should also be paid to his co-stars who help anchor the film: Marisa Tomei gives a subtle performance as the caring ex-wife that still can’t resist Mick’s boyish charms and William H. Macy works as Mick’s quietly dependable private investigator.

Director Brad Furman makes sure to focus on the importance of our protagonist’s car right from the opening sequence.  He concentrates on shots cruising alongside Mick, with slick music in the background and close-ups of his Lincoln.  This does an excellent job of setting up Mick, as a wheel and deal kind of guy.  Probably the most effective tool in Furman’s arsenal though, is his close shots of McConaughey’s face, which show intense bags under the eyes and the frantic exhaustion of someone desperately trying to maintain control.

Even though the twists in this thriller are relatively predictable, “The Lincoln Lawyer” is surprisingly captivating because of its grounded characters, which are easy to root for.  Matthew McConaughey’s unique on-screen persona which rides the line between cocky and uncertain, makes even a shyster like Haller, likable in this film.

My Grade: B