Trial and Error (1997)

Jonathan Lynn's 1997 legal comedy, *Trial and Error*, plunges viewers into a hilariously precarious situation. The film centers on Richard Rietti (Jeff Daniels), an actor who, out of loyalty and desperation, agrees to pose as a lawyer to represent his ailing best friend, Louis (Michael Richards), in court. What begins as a simple charade quickly escalates into a high-stakes trial fraught with comedic misunderstandings and a genuine need for justice. As the ill-equipped performer attempts to navigate the labyrinthine legal system, a series of increasingly absurd and chaotic problems inevitably develop, turning the courtroom into a stage for farcical antics and unexpected legal maneuvering. *Trial and Error* deserves its place on a list of "Best Jonathan Lynn Movies" because it perfectly embodies his knack for intelligent, high-concept comedies that often place relatable, if flawed, characters in over their heads. Much like his seminal *My Cousin Vinny*, Lynn expertly mines the inherent humor and absurdity of the legal system when confronted by unconventional methods and a lack of traditional expertise. His directorial signature is unmistakable here, as he masterfully orchestrates a blend of physical comedy, witty dialogue, and situational farce, building tension and laughs as the deception grows more elaborate. Lynn’s ability to extract both genuine humor and surprising heart from such a premise ensures *Trial and Error* stands as a testament to his consistent talent for crafting clever and uproarious cinematic experiences.