Unlike typical superhero blockbusters (Downey was at the peak of his Iron Man fame), The Judge offers a raw, emotional performance. Duvall won the National Board of Review Award for Best Supporting Actor, and the film was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor.

Henry "Hank" Palmer is a successful, ruthless, and wealthy defense attorney in Chicago. He specializes in getting guilty people acquitted on technicalities. His life is shaken when he receives news that his mother has passed away. Hank returns to his hometown of Carlinville, Indiana, to attend the funeral.