Willy Beachum (Ryan Gosling) is an Assistant D.A. – young, hotshot attitude – so hot in fact, that he’s sloppy with his cases. Just the kind of D.A. that Ted Crawford (Anthony Hopkins) wants to have prosecuting him in the alleged murder of his wife. Because of the legal theory of “innocent until proven guilty” Hopkins decides to represent himself. Translation: No defense attorney means no struggle and no challenge, which should prove easy since there’s also no evidence. While Gosling’s character may be sloppy, and may not have the murder weapon, what he does have is a small planted lie. Will he take the bait? Gosling is well-cast as the young player to off-set Hopkins, who delivers another meticulous performance. This psychological thriller feels part “Silence of the Lambs” for Hopkin’s skilled performance and part “Primal Fear” for its trickery. One of the best films this year to date. Three and a half tiaras
