Mystery writer Michael Connelly's series of spin-off books provides the basis for this sturdy but rushed legal thriller. Matthew McConaughey ages nicely into the role of hotshot Los Angeles defense attorney Mick Haller. Mick's rolling office is his vintage Lincoln Continental (thus the title). He works out of the vehicle's backseat as his driver jockeys him to appointments. Mick lives his job from all angles. A smooth operator, he knows how to make a buck off the front and back end of a deal. Inevitably the crafty counselor meets his match in the form of a Beverly Hills brat accused of trying to murder a prostitute.
Defendant Louis Roulet (Ryan Phillippe) is the son of a wealthy real estate saleswoman. The accused handpicks Mick to handle his defense. It turns out that Roulet is intimately familiar with the confidentiality aspect of attorney/client privilege. Like any other defense client, Roulet swears his innocence. Phillippe is ideally cast but isn't given enough screen time to fully flesh out his multifaceted character. Yet The Lincoln Lawyer is a thoroughly entertaining mystery thriller that leaves you wanting more. I wouldn't be surprised to see it turn into a franchise. Grade: B
Opens March 18. Check out theaters and show times, see the trailer and get theater details here.
