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True Believer (1989)

Rate: 8
Viewed: 10/18, 6/24

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10/18: True Believer plays out the same way as The Verdict, and make no mistake: it is 100% James Woods' show.

It's an entertaining tale of a disillusioned lawyer who's down on his luck and finally manages to find a needle in the haystack to make a last-ditch effort to save his client from being sent away again for a murder he didn't commit.

If there's ever a film featuring James Woods at his arrogant best, it's this. Unfortunately, the smug son of a bitch may have overplayed his signature card toward the end, yet he's entirely watchable.

The nice aspect about Robert Downey, Jr., is that he realizes he isn't the star or has a lot to contribute to the show and therefore stays out of James Woods' way. While watching the film, I realized it's been Robert Downey, Jr.'s typical tactic throughout the late 80's and most of the 90's which makes me appreciate him more as a supporting actor.

All in all, armed with a great story and an ever-arresting James Woods' performance, True Believer is a can't-stop movie from start to finish.

6/24: You've got to love James Woods in True Believer.

His performance is unbeatable, especially when he makes his argument in courtroom. The direction is strong, never insulting my intelligence at any minute. One thing leads to other, and everything seems to be logically sound. Robert Downey, Jr., does a good job as well.

All in all, if you loved The Verdict, True Believer should be right up your alley.