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This forgotten little movie is not a masterpiece , but definitely a thought provoking movie that is worth your time . What is law and what is justice ? Is there a difference between them ? Which one is more important ? Can someone take justice in his own hands ? If the system fails to protect the innocent should we ignore the system ?
This movie asks all this important questions and wants you to come out with your own conclusions . It does not force you to one point of view. For example it's about to the viewer to decide if the ending is a happy or sad one.
Michael Douglas gives a great performance as a judge torn between his duties and desires . Hal Holbrook repeats his role from "Magnum force". If you seen it , you know what to expect . Same goes for Yaphet Kotto who plays a cop in the same way as in "Across 110th street" . Still , the give a solid performances . It's a little strange and sad that Kotto has so little screen time here and he seems wasted. I also have to applause the actors who played two thugs . They were really creepy.
The screenplay for most part is intelligent , especially when it comes to complicated law issues . Only the ending seems a little clumsy. It kinda turns this serious drama/thriller into action movie , but thankfully doesn't destroy it. And the cops here are suspiciously very intuitive at times .
"The Star chamber " has some cool photographed sequences like the chase at the beginning and the falling of one character near the end.
Overall , if you want to spend your time on intelligent entertainment this movie is a nice choice. I give it 4/10. It's more of a drama , so don't expect action or thrills.
score 4/10
Maziun 21 July 2013
Reprint: https://www.imdb.com/review/rw2835855/ |
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23-2-2021 18:05:16