Once upon a time, Matthew McConaughey was known for being a serious actor. He starred in serious courtroom dramas like “A Time to Kill” and “Amistad.” Recently, he’s become known for starring in one mindless romantic comedy after another — an actor more concerned with being shirtless on screen than being taken seriously. Then, a movie like “The Lincoln Lawyer” comes along to remind us all of his former greatness, and McConaughey is surely great as the street-smart defense attorney Mick Haller.

Based on the novel by best-selling crime writer Michael Connelly, “The Lincoln Lawyer” follows the exploits of a Los Angeles lawyer who keeps an office in the back of his Lincoln Town Car. Mick specializes in criminal cases, representing a wide sampling of the accused from biker gangs and prostitutes to Beverly Hills real estate magnates.

Film showcases diverse cast

The cast is incredibly diverse and interesting, highlighting the talents of many great actors. The prolific William H. Macy stands out as Mick’s partner and best friend Frank Levin. Oscar winner Marisa Tomei plays Mick’s ex-wife and sometimes rival, as the prosecutor Maggie McPherson. The two of them play well together, as their friendship toggles back and forth between tension and affection.

Things get interesting for Mick when he gets a tip on a potential client that can bring him a big payday. Louis Roulet (Ryan Phillippe) is accused of assault and battery when a young prostitute turns up downtown with severe bruises and a story of how Roulet perpetrated the crime. Fortunately for Roulet, he’s got all the right connections and an overprotective mother who’s willing to do anything to keep her son out of jail. Mick and Frank take on the Roulet case, preparing a defense and probing into the unsavory details of the alleged crime. What they find is both shocking and dangerous.

Main character compelling

Mick shows off his skills both in and out of the courtroom, playing hardball with clients and rivals alike. He’s comfortable in any setting, whether it’s interviewing San Quentin inmates or mixing it up with the Los Angeles elite. The city is showcased right from the opening credits, as Mick rolls around town in style — but, this Los Angeles is definitely more grit than glitz. Mick is never in the same place twice, as he runs from neighborhood bars to his daughter’s soccer practice. McConaughey subtly portrays Mick’s alcoholism, which is hinted at throughout the film. Mick becomes more unhinged as the pressure from the case builds, but he somehow maintains his cool in front of the jury.

Legal underpinnings propel plot

Mick and others around him constantly challenge his own sense of ethics. He debates detectives in the halls of justice over the rights of the accused, and the burden of competency on both the prosecution and defense. His only fear is that the innocent will not find justice. Many fascinating legal issues are raised in the film, concerning lawyer/client privileges and the role criminal defense plays in the pursuit of justice. Mick shows how what some might consider an open and shut case against Roulet can be be turned on its head, when a good lawyer knows what he’s doing and an inexperienced prosecutor does not.

Plot twists mimic complexity of case

“The Lincoln Lawyer” is a long needed throwback to the classic courtroom movies of the ‘90s. What I’m not telling you about the film is just how twisty the plot is. The story is somewhat layered and relatively easy to follow, but the twists are numerous and surprising. The more Mick finds out about his client, the more he realizes just how difficult the case will be. He soon finds himself fighting not only for his client’s life, but his own.

“The Lincoln Lawyer” is an exceedingly entertaining ride for anyone who loves a good courtroom drama, with an outstanding cast and a story that will keep you guessing. It’s nice to see that McConaughey has finally found his shirt again.