Roman J. Israel, Esq. Synopsis & Review: Plot Summary

🎯 Quick Overview

😅 Plot Summary – Badly Explained

A quirky lawyer with a huge afro sells out for fancy donuts, then maybe gets shot, but hey, at least his paperwork gets filed!

🍿 Roman J. Israel, Esq.: Detailed Plot Synopsis

Introduction to Roman J. Israel

Roman J. Israel (Denzel Washington) is a brilliant but eccentric defense attorney working at a small, struggling law firm in Los Angeles. He’s the unsung hero, drafting legal briefs and focusing on civil rights cases while his partner, William Jackson, handles courtroom appearances. Roman is deeply idealistic, committed to social justice, and often out of sync with the modern world.

Crisis and Transition

When William Jackson suffers a heart attack and falls into a coma, Roman’s world is upended. He discovers the firm is in severe financial trouble and faces an uncertain future. He’s forced to seek employment at a high-powered law firm headed by George Pierce (Colin Farrell), a former student of Jackson’s. This new environment clashes with Roman’s values and lifestyle.

Moral Compromise

Struggling to adapt to the corporate world and facing financial pressures, Roman makes a questionable decision. He provides information about a murder suspect for a reward, compromising his ethical principles. This decision leads to a significant amount of money, which he uses to upgrade his lifestyle, renting a new apartment and buying new clothes. This newfound comfort comes at a steep moral price.

Consequences and Redemption

Roman’s actions have serious consequences. The man he informed on for the reward learns of his betrayal and seeks revenge. Realizing the error of his ways, Roman attempts to return to his idealistic roots. He reconnects with Maya, a young activist, and grapples with his moral failings. This sets the stage for the film’s dramatic conclusion.

⚠️ Spoilers and Ending Explained

🎬 Cast & Characters

• Roman J. Israel, Esq. (Denzel Washington): A driven, idealistic, yet socially awkward defense attorney whose life takes a tumultuous turn, leading him to compromise his values.
• George Pierce (Colin Farrell): A monied, cutthroat lawyer who recruits Roman to his firm, prompting a reevaluation of his own priorities.
• Maya Alston (Carmen Ejogo): A civil rights activist who admires Roman’s ideals and provides a contrasting perspective on social justice.
• Vernita Wells (Lynda Gravatt): Character description not available, role seems minor.
• Derrell Ellerbee (DeRon Horton): Character description not available, role seems minor.

💬 Memorable Quotes

• Roman J. Israel, Esq.: “Each of us is better than the worst thing we ever did.” – This quote encapsulates the film’s central theme of redemption and the inherent worth of individuals despite their mistakes.
• Roman J. Israel, Esq.: “I file against myself, I represent myself, I convict myself, hereby expanding the full scope of the legal desert, because the judgment’s built in. The only thing left is forgiveness and I grant that to myself. An act doesn’t make the person guilty unless the mind is guilty as well.” – Roman has an epiphany in the middle of nowhere where he can only grant forgiveness to himself, because the judgement is built in.

💰Box Office

• Budget: $22,000,000
• Domestic Gross: $11,962,778
• Worldwide Gross: $13,025,860

💥 Roman J. Israel, Esq. Reviews

Personal Review

I was drawn in by Denzel’s portrayal of Roman, he was so quirky and unique, like nobody I’ve ever met. The whole story, from working in that old office, to selling for donuts, hit me hard. The ending was bit much, but still I liked what was on paper. I just felt very weird after the whole thing. I rate it, 4.5/5.

• Who would enjoy:
  • “Fans of Denzel Washington”
  • “Viewers interested in legal dramas”
  • “Those who appreciate character-driven stories”
• Content warnings ⚠:
  • “Violence”
  • “Mature themes”
  • “Discussion of crime and moral compromise”

Professional Reviews

• The New York Times: “Denzel Washington delivers a compelling performance as a lawyer struggling with his ideals. The film explores complex moral questions within the overburdened legal system, making it a thought-provoking experience. Gilroy’s direction could be tighter, but Washington’s portrayal makes it worthwhile.
• Variety: “A character study showcasing Denzel Washington’s talents, though the storyline itself is somewhat uneven. Colin Farrell offers solid support. It makes you think about law system, that’s why it is good, but can be bit more tight up

Audience Reactions

Denzel Washington’s unique and compelling performance.: Viewers praised the movie for Denzel Washington’s portrayal of the character as well as the depiction of moral struggles within the legal system.

Overall Consensus: Denzel Washington’s performance carries a flawed but thought-provoking exploration of ethics and idealism within the legal system.

Awards

1. NAACP Image Award (Outstanding Actor in a Motion Picture)- 2018

🛠️ Behind the Scenes

• “Denzel Washington removed his dental caps to reveal a visible gap between his front teeth for this role, aiming for a more authentic portrayal of Roman’s character.”
• “Director Dan Gilroy and Denzel Washington re-cut the film after its premiere at the Toronto International Film Festival, shortening it by 12 minutes and altering the soundtrack.”
• “The film explores themes of morality, justice, and the challenges of maintaining idealism within a flawed legal system.”

🖥️ How to Watch Roman J. Israel, Esq.?

Roman J. Israel, Esq. is available for streaming and purchase on various platforms. You can find it on demand on platforms like Prime Video, Apple TV, and Vudu. Check your local listings for cable on-demand options. Physical copies (DVD, Blu-ray) can also be purchased through retailers such as Amazon and major department stores.

🎥 Similar Movies

If you enjoyed Roman J. Israel, Esq., you might like these similar films:

• Michael Clayton (2007): Both films feature a morally conflicted lawyer navigating the complexities and corruption of the legal system.
• Nightcrawler (2014): Directed by Dan Gilroy, this film shares a similar dark and cynical tone, exploring the ethical compromises made in pursuit of success.

🛒 Roman J. Israel, Esq. Related Products

• Denzel Washington 8-Movie Collection [DVD]: A collection of Denzel Washington’s best films on DVD, perfect for fans who enjoy his acting style and on-screen presence. Relive his most iconic roles in one set.
• Criminal Justice Reform: A Reader (New Press): An reader for people who are interested in the criminal justice system. What are the issues and potential paths forward for people in the system?
• Law Mug – Funny Lawyer Gift – World’s Okayest Lawyer: A funny mug with the saying ‘World’s Okayest Lawyer.’
• Roman J. Israel, Esq. [Blu-ray]: Watch this interesting criminal justice movie with Denzel Washington,Colin Farrell,Carmen Ejogo.

🎧 Soundtrack

Roman J. Israel, Esq. features a captivating soundtrack that enhances the movie’s atmosphere and emotional impact. Here are some notable tracks:

• “Keep On Truckin'” – performed by Eddie Kendricks

You can find the complete soundtrack on Amazon Music and Apple Music.

🤨 FAQ

🔥 Bonus Content

Roman J. Israel, Esq.: Sit Down With the Stars feat. Matthew Hoffman – Regal Cinemas [HD]

Ever wondered what Denzel Washington thinks about his character in ‘Roman J. Israel, Esq.’? This short interview gives you a peek behind the curtain with insights from the cast and director – definitely worth a watch to understand the movie better!

Denzel talks about 11-year old “Yummy” Sandifer who killed a 14-year old and was murdered himself

Wow, I was not expecting Denzel Washington to bring up the heartbreaking case of ‘Yummy’ Sandifer while promoting this movie. It’s a heavy topic, but it really sheds light on the deeper issues the film tackles and, honestly, makes you think.

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