A "Double Robert" Acting Showdown with Veteran Oscar Winner Robert Duvall

The latest film from Robert Downey Jr., who has established an unshakeable position with 'Iron Man' and 'The Avengers,' is 'The Judge.' This film, which opened the Toronto International Film Festival—dubbed the world's earliest awards race—is highly anticipated to receive Academy Award nominations and will finally be released in Japan.

The film is directed by David Dobkin, known not only for his directorial work but also for music videos for artists like Sonic Youth and Elton John, as well as commercials. Robert Downey Jr., who stars in the film, also served as executive producer.

A stellar cast has gathered around him. The father role is powerfully portrayed by the renowned actor Robert Duvall, known for films like 'The Godfather' and 'Apocalypse Now,' earning him a nomination for Best Supporting Actor at the 87th Academy Awards. Beyond the intense courtroom scenes, the performances of the "Double Roberts" are captivating, exploring the conflict between father and son and their unseen bond. The cast also includes Bella Heathcote, known for 'In Time,' and the distinctive actor Billy Bob Thornton, who deliver compelling performances.

An Unexpected Ending and the Family Bonds Discovered Beyond It

Hank Palmer, a sharp lawyer more concerned with winning than truth, graduated at the top of his class from a prestigious law school, but his exceptional talent has only been used to get the wealthy off the hook. He returns to his estranged hometown for his mother's funeral.

However, the day after the funeral, his father, a judge deeply respected by the townspeople, is arrested and charged with murder. Despite years of estrangement, Hank takes on his father's defense, believing in the man who has upheld justice in court for 42 years.

But the more the investigation progresses, the more suspicious evidence surfaces. The twisted relationship between the victim and his father, a secret about his father known only to his late mother, and inexplicable footage captured by security cameras. As the trial turns against them, the feuding father and son clash fiercely over the defense strategy. Is the father truly a murderer? What is the shocking truth, whether innocent or guilty?

We are drawn into the relentless courtroom battle between the "feuding father and son" and the poignant yet universal family history. What is true, and what is false? We are eager to witness the unfolding suspense alongside Hank's shifting emotions.

'The Judge'

Opens January 17 (Saturday) at Shinjuku Piccadilly and other theaters.

Director | David Dobkin

Starring | Robert Downey Jr., Robert Duvall, Bella Heathcote, Billy Bob Thornton

Distributor | Warner Bros. Pictures

2014 / USA / 142 min

http://wwws.warnerbros.co.jp/thejudge/

©2014 VILLAGE ROADSHOW FILMS (BVI) LIMITED, WARNER BROS. ENTERTAINMENT INC. AND RATPAC-DUNE ENTERTAINMENT LLC