The Lincoln Lawywer Movie Preview

Coming to theaters on March 18, 2011 is THE LINCOLN LAWYER, a movie based on the novel of the same name by Michael Connelly. THE LINCOLN LAWYER movie stars Matthew McConaughey as the film's protagonist, L.A. criminal defense attorney Mickey Haller.

This will be the second of Michael Connelly's novels to be made into a movie, following 2002's BLOOD WORK starring Clint Eastwood. While BLOOD WORK didn't quite wow critics or moviegoers, THE LINCOLN LAWYER is expected to wow both. If so, two additional books featuring Mickey Haller - THE BRASS VERDICT and THE REVERSAL - may very well make it to the big screen. Both legal thrillers also feature Mickey Haller's half-brother and Connelly fan-favorite Detective Harry Bosch.

The star of THE LINCOLN LAWYER movie, Matthew McConaughey, isn't new to filming blockbuster legal thrillers for the big screen. His turn as attorney Jake Brigance in John Grisham's A TIME TO KILL (1996) is a noteworthy addition to onscreen courtroom dramas. However, Jake Brigance is a much different character than Mickey Haller. As Jake Brigance, Matthew McConaughey had to show heart, whereas in Connelly's movie, McConaughey is going to have to prove he can play a lawyer with brains.

Fortunately, Michael Connelly himself says on his Website that he's pleased with what he's seeing so far.

"Last week I spent a couple nights on the set of The Lincoln Lawyer and I have to say I am excited about this project beyond words. I thought that from what I saw this story is in very secure hands. The acting and direction were fantastic, the sets real and the momentum of the story intact. I think Matthew McConaughey brings a great spirit and accuracy to Mickey Haller. I can't wait to see what they have when it's completed."

- Michael Connelly, August 2010

Neither can we. Mickey Haller is a fantastic character and THE LINCOLN LAWYER is one of those legal thrillers that stays with you long after you've read the book. Although I would have cast someone like Nicolas Cage as the film's protagonist, I look forward to seeing what Matthew McConaughey brings to the table. The story does take place in L.A., after all, and Matthew McConaughey can certainly pull off an L.A. swagger. Though it will be interesting to see him pull it off in both the backseat of a Lincoln Towncar and a criminal courthouse.