The trial that decided the relationship between father and son.

This film tells the story of a judge and his fractured relationship with his son—exploring why it is the way it is. A deeply heartfelt and emotional film, it resonates strongly with anyone who has experienced a strained relationship with their father. Unlike many courtroom dramas, The Judge doesn’t just focus on legal battles; it dives into the emotional complexities of family conflicts that are often ignored in films because they aren’t deemed “interesting.” But here, those moments are what make the story so powerful. The layers of conflict and reconciliation bring everything together beautifully.

One lingering question remains—who actually killed Blackwell?

The film never gives us a definitive answer. But based on the evidence (or lack thereof), it strongly suggests that Judge Joseph Palmer (Robert Duvall) did it. If you’re wondering whether he was truly guilty, I’d say go with your gut—because the film intentionally leaves it open to interpretation. The only clues we get suggest that it may have been an emotional reaction—a response to the devastating loss of his wife, compounded by the cruel insult Blackwell threw at him when they locked eyes. But hey, I’m no lawyer—I can’t break this case down piece by piece.

One of the things I really enjoyed was the way the film blended multiple storylines. At first, it’s about the father-son conflict, then it expands into a courtroom drama, and finally, it adds a third layer with the introduction of Samantha Powell (Vera Farmiga). Her presence gives the film a sense of balance—something for Hank (Robert Downey Jr.) to fall back on once the intense drama with his father reaches its peak.

But one thing the film doesn’t tell us is…

What happens between Hank and his wife?

At the beginning of the film, we see that their marriage is crumbling. But after Hank reunites with his daughter toward the end, the issue is completely sidelined. We’re left wondering—does he leave his daughter with his wife? Does he go back to his old life, or does he stay in town with Samantha? These questions remain unanswered, leaving us in the dark about his future.

The final courtroom scene is phenomenal. It finally reveals why Judge Palmer was so hard on his son and why their relationship was broken for so long. I won’t spoil it, but the emotional weight of that moment is incredible—and Robert Downey Jr.’s performance in that scene is nothing short of breathtaking.

Robert Duvall also delivers a fantastic performance as Judge Palmer—a strict, unintentionally cruel, yet fundamentally fair father. You truly understand his character by the end of the film, and why he became the way he is.

The film smartly mixes in moments of comedy to keep things from becoming too heavy. The interactions between Hank, Samantha, and his brothers add some well-timed levity, preventing the story from feeling like a purely courtroom-focused drama. And, of course, Robert Downey Jr. shines—his signature fast-talking, razor-sharp delivery adds energy to every scene he’s in.

If you enjoy legal dramas, powerful performances, and the touching resolution of a broken relationship, give The Judge a watch.