If they have played it long enough and well enough, the name of some actors becomes almost synonymous with that of their role. They become inseparable unity and can be used in an almost equivalent way. This is also the case with Robert Downey Jr., who played Tony Stark or Iron Man in the MCU and won the hearts and immortal memories of countless fans.
In such cases, it can happen from time to time that we forget how versatile an actor like Robert Downey Jr. can really be. Other roles disappear into oblivion. In 2014, Downey Jr. delivered a gripping and touching courtroom drama which showcased his acting skills wonderfully – and which is now available on Netflix: The Judge: Law and Honor.
In The Judge on Netflix, Robert Downey Jr., as an arrogant lawyer, suddenly has to defend his own father
Hank Palmer (Robert Downey Jr.) may theoretically represent law and order as a lawyer. In practice, however, he lives in the knowledge that his clients are very much guilty and that he defends them in order to make a lot of money. Hank is feared by his colleagues, not necessarily loved by his fellow men, long estranged from his family.
Nevertheless, he immediately travels back to his hometown of Indiana when he hears of his mother’s death. His appearance is not exactly met with enthusiasm, especially not by his father (Robert Duvall), who is former judgeHe has been at loggerheads with Hank for a long time. But then he unexpectedly needs Hank’s help.
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Robert Downey Jr. and Robert Duvall in The Judge
He will be Main suspect in a homicidewhich is connected to the biggest mistake of his career as a judge. Despite everything, Hank cannot simply accept the accusations against his father. So he offers himself as a defense attorney. Against their will, father and son must pull together and work through their complicated past in order to have a future together.
Now on Netflix: Robert Downey Jr. shines in The Judge in a tough and emotional role
At first glance, Hank Palmer seems a bit like Tony Stark: rich, career-focused, not always the most moral person, but always with a quick quip on his lips. But it doesn’t stay that way. Palmer’s slick exterior is cracked over the course of the film. And underneath, a character emerges who has many more problems than he admits, and many old woundswho do not hide behind armor.
Conveniently, Downey Jr. has an equally brilliant and snappy scene partner to rub up against: Billy Bob Thornton as the opposing lawyer, who relentlessly pushes the former judge and his son into a corner. Both provide emotional Explosive material in the courtroom.
In all the numerous choleric, disappointed, human and honest scenes, fans quickly realize: There is also a life and acting without Iron Man. If you forgot, you should definitely take a look at The Judge.
The courtroom drama is currently available on Netflix’s streaming subscription.