In real life judges are often stodgy, seem to have no sense of humor, and are quite adamant about how people act in their court room. In the movie this is just as true, but oftentimes the hilarity and drama that go hand in hand with the courtroom scenes seem to create an atmosphere that is more amenable to many viewers. Then there are the judges that are part of an established court but are rarely, if ever, seen within a courtroom during their appearance in the film. While the scenery is different, the title and role are quite the same.
Here are our picks for the top five court judges in movies:
Judge Julius Alexander Randolph – A Few Good Men
This exchange alone warrants his place on this list:
Col. Jessup: I would appreciate it if you would address me as “Colonel” or “Sir.” I believe I’ve earned it.
Judge Randolph: Defense counsel will address the witness as “Colonel” or “Sir.”
Col. Jessup: I don’t know what the hell kind of unit you’re running here.
Col. Jessup: And the witness will address this court as “Judge” or “Your Honor.” I’m quite certain I’ve earned it. Take your seat, Colonel.
Judge Mel Coffey – Inherit The Wind
It can easily be argued that this judge got a bit overshadowed given that the case he was presiding over was the infamous Scopes “Monkey” trial, during which a school teacher was on trial for daring to teach Darwinism to his students, thereby violating one of Tennessee’s most notable laws regarding the creation of mankind. This trial was a heated affair in which all but the subject were relegated to secondary components, including the presiding judge.
Judge Chamberlain Haller – My Cousin Vinny
Some people remembered for completely different roles than those they go on to play later in life. You’ll recognize this judge as the former Herman Munster, but in this film his attitude isn’t so carefree as he entertains an obvious bias towards the titular character that just doesn’t mesh with the country atmosphere due to his city style and mannerisms. By the end of the film he’s actually bonded with the city lawyer, but there’s no doubt that throughout the film there are fare more inventive punishments that he would like to heap upon the hapless Vinny.
Judge William Morrisey – The People VS. Larry Flynt
It is truly ironic that the character donning the black robe for this part is none other than Larry Flynt himself. While most people wouldn’t know Flynt from anyone else, a simple look on an Imdb page or Google can show you that the porn king himself is passing judgment on his movie counterpart in a manner that must have been quite surreal for Flynt.
Judge Elihu Smails – Caddyshack
He’s called a judge, and there are enough references throughout the movie to his status and his career that make it feasible, which makes Judge Smails a very believable character despite the fact that he is seen everywhere but the courtroom. As the only truly comedic appearance on this list it’s important to note that Judge Smails is in fact a standing court judge, but it stand to reason that the hilarity of the movie might have been damaged by a scene of the grumpy judge sending men younger than Danny Noonan to the gas chamber. If you’ve seen the movie you’ll get the reference.
Conclusion
Judges are no doubt a hard role to play for some, but for others the role seems to come quite naturally. From the ironic to the dramatic to the comedic, the portrayal of a judge in any movie seems to be a hit or miss position that is often allowed to fade into the background.
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