‘Juror No. 2’ Review- Clint Eastwood Paints A Compelling Courtroom Thriller
This movie was released in 2024.
Juror No. 2, sometimes styled as Juror #2, is a courtroom thriller directed by Clint Eastwood and written by Jonathan Abrams. It debuted successfully at the 2024 AFI Fest before Warner Bros. Pictures released it in cinemas.
Recovering alcoholic and Georgia journalist Justin Kemp (Nicholas Hoult) is called to jury duty despite his pregnant wife Ally (Zoey Deutch) being close to giving birth. The prosecutor, Faith Killebrew (Toni Collette), and public defender Eric Resnick (Chris Messina) chose him to hear the case of James Sythe (Gabriel Basso), accused of murdering his girlfriend, Kendall (Francesca Eastwood). However, as he hears the facts of the case, Justin begins to wonder if he is actually the killer.
Clint Eastwood is a master storyteller. No one can dispute that. Now, I am not saying every single one of his works is a masterpiece, but this one certainly is. He has not lost his touch one bit. Hollywood could learn a thing or two from his cinematic perspective.
For one thing, this movie deals with moral ambiguity, but not the Gen Z has-been trope of “it’s all about power dynamics.” He gives us a relatable moral quandary and dares to ask the audience whether Justin is guilty or innocent in the service of justice. Even in their occupations, you see this dichotomy. Kemp is a journalist. Ally is a teacher. Killebrew is an attorney. This creates the perfect storm of morally gray areas.
From the first scene, you are pulled into this courtroom drama. The characters, the plot, and even the music are done to perfection. The only thing I did not care for is that two seemingly key characters disappear once their involvement is no longer required. That being said, I enjoyed this film totally.
The cast also does an amazing job. I have seen Hoult in previous movies, and he is no slouch, but he brings his A-game to Justin Kemp. He delivers every line of dialogue and moment of silence perfectly. I also want to praise Collette. She is a dynamite actress, and she made her presence known as the district attorney. I applaud her performance and found her gripping in the role.
I would be remiss if I did not mention the incredible score by veteran composer Mark Mancina. He genuinely made each scene punctuated by the music. It worked so well.
Bottom line, Juror No. 2 is another masterpiece from Clint Eastwood. It has a compelling story, interesting characters, fantastic music, and a courtroom drama you will never forget.
PARENTAL CONCERNS: Foul language, Violence
FAVORITE QUOTE: Sometimes the truth is not justice.
Check out the trailer below:
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