Robert Downey, Jr. and Robert Duvall Throw Down the Acting Gavel in "The Judge"

   There's a reason why the name Robert Downey, Jr. is considered a household name. The guy can act his face off. There is so much talent that oozes from that man's body that it's just a special experience to be able to sit and watch. His latest film "The Judge" only solidified in my mind the notion that was already there, that being: RDJ can do no wrong. I'll go as far as throwing the gavel down now and say that for his performance in this film, Robert Downey, Jr. should be nominated for an Oscar. No joke.

   Downey, Jr. plays big city lawyer Hank Palmer. He's cunning, cutthroat, and well versed in being successful at his job. Estranged from his family, he returns to his childhood hometown where his father Joseph Palmer (Robert Duvall), the town's judge, is suspected of murder. Hank sets out to discover the truth behind the allegations against his father as well as struggle to reconnect with his family. This movie is as much about the relationship between Hank and his father as it is about Hank and his brothers, played by Vincent D'Onofrio and Jeremy Strong. It's a powerful, well-crafted drama that unfortunately has gotten poor reviews from critics around. This movie, however, is a striking tale that will tug at your heartstrings, tickle your funny bone, and do whatever other cliche you can think of.

   The dynamics between Hank and his father lay the foundation for the story as it plays out. As mentioned early, Robert Downey, Jr. gives a fantastic performance; like a lawyer version of Tony Stark but with more depth. Though the character of Hank as portrayed by Downey is familiar, it is still highly entertaining to watch. Equal to his performance is that of Robert Duvall as Hank's father. Duvall is a master-class actor, and he gives one of the best performances of his career to date. It's so fascinating to watch these two men interact on screen. The level of emotion they're able to tap into and convey is gut-wrenching, funny, and refreshing. It's like watching a masterful duet, or two top heavyweight contenders going at it. Both men seem to be at the top of their game and it's breathtaking. I can't say enough about how well crafted the characters, story and development were and the level of care and devotion the actors gave for each.

   Movies are such a subjective medium that to say one film is better than another differs with every person you speak to. At any case, there are those films that transcend the entertainment face value and encompass what it means to be a piece of art. "The Judge" is a courtroom drama/thriller as well as an emotional family saga. I would implore you to find the time to see this film. It's that good.