The excellence of the supporting cast (Robert Duvall, William H. Macy, Tony Shalhoub, James Gandolfini, etc…) mostly overcomes the typically wooden performance of lead John Travolta.
Based on the 1996 book of the same name, this omits large portions of the actual events and takes some cinematic liberties. If you want to know the “real” story, read the book or the court case transcripts. If you’d prefer a less truthful but far more consistently engaging and interesting experience, watch the movie.
Duvall in particular is outstanding as Jerome Facher, and delivers some of the best lines of the film with an easy, calm, subtle brilliance.
Inspirational Quote: “I don’t run away from bullies”
Grade: B+
6/3/12: Too much excellence to be spoiled by Travolta’s inclusion. And he doesn’t suck. Grade: A-