Justice

The time has come
  • Released on May 12, 2004
  • Drama

In the gripping drama "Justice," the narrative unfolds around the compelling character of Carter, portrayed by Roger Guenveur Smith. Carter is an overburdened public defender who becomes disillusioned with the rampant corruption within the judicial system. After tirelessly defending clients who often fall victim to systemic injustices, he reaches a breaking point that prompts him to take drastic action. This culmination of frustration leads him to resign from his job, defy the expectations of the establishment, and embark on a bold mission to reform the system from within. Fueled by a desire for change, he opens a law office in the heart of the inner city, gathering a group of passionate activists dedicated to championing justice for the underserved.

However, this pivotal decision does not come without its repercussions, particularly for Carter's family. His wife, Sharice, played by Monica Calhoun, finds herself torn between supporting her husband's noble cause and safeguarding the stability of their family's life. As Carter immerses himself deeper into the fight against injustice, Sharice grapples with the implications of his choices on their shared life and their two young children. Their once-cohesive family unit is put to the test as the stresses of activism and financial uncertainty loom over them, bringing to light the difficult conversation surrounding personal sacrifice in the pursuit of a greater good.

The heart of the story hinges on Sharice’s struggle to decide whether to stay by Carter’s side and embrace the turmoil of the battle for justice, or to prioritize the family's security by moving to the suburbs, away from the chaos that Carter's decisions have unleashed. As she weighs her options, the film delves into themes of loyalty, love, and the moral dilemmas that come with pursuing one's convictions. "Justice" emerges not only as a tale of activism but also as an exploration of the familial bonds that can either withstand or falter under the weight of ideology and ambition, ultimately resonating with any viewer who has faced challenging choices in the name of their beliefs.

Full Cast of Justice

Roger Guenveur Smith as Carter

Roger Guenveur Smith

as Carter
Roger Guenveur Smith delivers a compelling performance as Carter in the movie 'Justice,' portraying the character with a brooding intensity and a palpable sense of moral complexity. Smith embodies Carter with an understated gravitas, conveying the inner turmoil of a man caught between his loyalty to his employer, a ruthless crime boss, and his own conscience. His performance is a masterclass in subtlety, as he navigates through the film's tension-filled moments with a quiet strength, often communicating more with a piercing gaze or a tightening of his jaw than with dialogue. Smith's Carter is a man conflicted, wrestling with the consequences of his actions and the redemption that might come from doing the right thing in a world where right and wrong are dangerously entangled. His nuanced portrayal adds layers of depth to the film, making Carter a memorable and thought-provoking character.
Monica Calhoun as Sharice

Monica Calhoun

as Sharice
In the movie 'Justice,' Monica Calhoun delivers a compelling performance as Sharice, a character that embodies resilience and determination amidst the struggles of the criminal justice system. Calhoun portrays Sharice with a nuanced depth, capturing the essence of a woman fiercely advocating for her husband's innocence against a backdrop of systemic corruption and racial injustice. Her portrayal is both emotionally raw and inspiring, as she navigates the complexities of her character's journey, transitioning from a place of vulnerability to one of empowered activism. Calhoun's performance is a standout element of the film, providing a human face to the broader themes of justice and redemption that the narrative explores. Through her authentic and heartfelt acting, she not only draws the audience into Sharice's plight but also highlights the real-world implications of the story, leaving a lasting impact on viewers long after the credits roll.
Anna Maria Horsford as Chief Public Defender Poole

Anna Maria Horsford

as Chief Public Defender Poole
Anna Maria Horsford delivers a commanding performance as Chief Public Defender Poole in the movie 'Justice,' where she brings a potent blend of gravitas and empathy to the screen. Her portrayal of the seasoned legal advocate is both inspiring and grounded, capturing the essence of a professional who has dedicated her life to representing the underrepresented. With a stern gaze and a voice that resonates with authority, Horsford's Chief Poole stands as a formidable presence in the courtroom, fiercely advocating for justice with an unwavering commitment to her clients. Yet, it's her nuanced ability to convey compassion and understanding for the individuals she defends that truly sets her performance apart. Horsford's character navigates the complexities of the legal system with a keen sense of duty, while also highlighting the personal toll such work takes on those who fight on the front lines for equal justice under the law. Her performance is a standout reminder of the power of strong defense in the face of adversity and the vital role public defenders play in the pursuit of fairness and equity within the judicial process.

Allen Hamilton

as Judge Bennett

Crew of Justice

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