Many in 1990s Hollywood gave impression of having great difficulties in finding something original in their new projects. That included even Jonathan Lynn, British director whose Hollywood career had been launched by My Cousin Vinny, surprisingly successful 1992 comedy about urban lawyer having to do practice in rural courtrooms. His 1997 comedy Trial and Error borrows much from that concept in the script, written by Gregory and Sara Bernstein. The protagonist is Charles Tuttle (played by Jeff Daniels), successful lawyer employed in prestigious Los Angeles law firm and engaged for Tiffany Whitfield (played by Aleksandra Wentworth), who just happens to be daughter of his boss (played by Lawrence Pressman). A day before wedding he is sent to small Nevada town where he is supposed to represent Benjamin Gibbs (played by Rip Torn), con man related to Whitfields. Routine case gets complicated because of bachelor's party going too far and leaving Charles unable to appear in courtroom. Charles' best friend and unemployed actor Richard Rietti (played by Michael Richards) volunteers to impersonate him and stall the proceedings until Charles is able to continue. Unfortunately, stalling attempts fail and Richard is forced to actually try the case regardless of his complete unfamiliarity with law. In the meantime, recovering Charles meets beautiful local waitress Billie Tyler (played by Charlize Theron).
Despite basic premise being in many ways similar to My Cousin Vinny, this film is very different. While the previous one was straight comedy, this one meanders between satirical take on American legal profession (and the way laymen see it) and classic love story. Both stories are well-told, heart-warming and for the most part interesting, but they rarely connect well. Quality of humour in this film also leaves much to be desired - too many jokes aren't as effective as they could have been. The film nevertheless functions as passable entertainment mostly due to excellent cast. Michael Richards is very good as film's top comedian, since never goes over the top. Jeff Daniels is also good in playing straight role, but the most pleasant surprise is South African ballerina Charlize Theron. Her role, one of the earliest in her Hollywood career, shows great talent matched by her natural charm. Trial and Error isn't the most original or the most successful entry in Jonathan Lynn's filmography, but it is good enough for all those who appreciate quality entertainment.
RATING: 5/10 (++)
(Note: The text in its original form was posted in Usenet newsgroup rec.arts.films.reviews on January 26th 2004)
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