A high rent Chicago lawyer (Gere) defends a teen murder suspect (Norton).

There's a lot to like about this courtroom drama. Norton gives a great performance as the accused. I was also impressed with the other supporting roles in the film. Richard Gere however, is one of those Hollywood enigmas. He doesn't have a lot of talent, but he knows how to act. He doesn't deliver lines well but he has a great look, expressions and body movement. And this has kept him in the upper half of the pool of leading men for about 20 years now.

The crime story in question is an interesting one, with new revelations coming in good time. Its by-the-book script doesn't take many bold chances and remains very mainstream; but the entertainment value is not compromised much.

Edward Norton nominated for Best Supporting Actor.

Directed by Gregory Hoblit.