Primal Fear tells the story of a high class Chicago lawyer, Martin Vail (Richard Gere). Picking up the case of a young troubled altar boy(Edward Norton) accused of murdering the priest of his church, Vail undergoes a transformation upon realizing that his career is perhaps not the most important thing in life. Going up against the lead prosecutor and ex-girlfriend (played by Laura Linney), Gere takes us through the usual cliché courtroom drama that seems to be prevalent in today's crime based movies and t.v. shows. The story is good, adequate at the most. It reminded me more of a extended episode of Law and Order, which isn't bad per se but I expect more from a major motion picture.
What really carries this movie, however, is Norton's performance. Brilliantly played, it put him on the map and made him ready for bigger roles in movies like "Fight Club", "American History X", and "The People vs. Larry Flint". Playing two characters essentially stuck in the same body gave Norton the opportunity to stretch out and show everyone what he really is capable of. It was great to watch him slipping in and out of different characters all before my eyes in a way that seemed convincing and not overacted. Check out the scene where we first discover Aaron's secret side. The transition from Aaron to Roy happens before your eyes and it showcases Norton's acting ability. Bravo to Mr. Norton. If it wasn't for Norton's role in this movie, it would be a well below par courthouse film.
Rating 5/10
What really carries this movie, however, is Norton's performance. Brilliantly played, it put him on the map and made him ready for bigger roles in movies like "Fight Club", "American History X", and "The People vs. Larry Flint". Playing two characters essentially stuck in the same body gave Norton the opportunity to stretch out and show everyone what he really is capable of. It was great to watch him slipping in and out of different characters all before my eyes in a way that seemed convincing and not overacted. Check out the scene where we first discover Aaron's secret side. The transition from Aaron to Roy happens before your eyes and it showcases Norton's acting ability. Bravo to Mr. Norton. If it wasn't for Norton's role in this movie, it would be a well below par courthouse film.
Rating 5/10