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The Devil's Advocate

The Devil's Advocate

1997
Aspiring Florida defense lawyer Kevin Lomax accepts a job at a New York law firm. With the stakes getting higher every case, Kevin quickly learns that his boss has something far more evil planned.
Ratings:
Brad Score: 6.2/10
Internet Score: 7.5/10
Director:
Taylor Hackford
Cast:
Connie Nielsen, Al Pacino, Charlize Theron, Keanu Reeves, Jeffrey Jones, Judith Ivey, Craig T. Nelson, Tamara Tunie, Ruben Santiago-Hudson, Debra Monk
Genres:
Drama Mystery Horror

My notes

I loved this movie when I saw it in the theater as a teenager. I like it today, though watching it in a world where Trump became president (twice) it hits a little do. That’s not an imagined connection, either. Trump was name checked in the party scene when the demons and lawyers were advised New York’s most powerful. The scenes of murderous and philandering real estate tycoon’s garish Manhattan apartment were shot in Trump’s actual penthouse.

Prescient connections aside, Pacino is a fun Satan chewing the scenery. Keanu’s descent is more believable than his accent, though Charlize did a good job. The special effects aged quite well. And man, I miss competent lighting and contrast.

Watched March 14, 2026 via UHD — rated 6.2/10
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