'Juror #2' movie review: Tension in simplicity

Clint Eastwood is 94 and still telling stories. From ‘Unforgiven’ (1992) to ‘Million Dollar Baby’ (2004), his track record speaks for itself. Sure, it’s been a while since his last big hit, and recent outings missed the mark — but he’s not done yet. ‘Juror #2’ is a reminder that the old cowboy can still pull off an engaging courtroom thriller.

Nicholas Hoult plays Justin Kemp, a regular guy who starts sweating bullets when he realises the case he’s judging might actually be about him. A late-night drive he thought was harmless, turns out to be anything but. As the trial moves forward, so does his guilt. Instead of confessing, he quietly tries to steer the jury toward the right verdict — without outing himself. Hoult keeps it cool on the surface, but the panic underneath is clear. His slow-burn breakdown is one of the film’s highlights. Toni Collette is sharp as the prosecutor. Kiefer Sutherland and J K Simmons bring just the right amount of slick tension.

The writing avoids big twists or grand speeches, letting the moral conflict carry the weight. Eastwood directs with minimal fuss — no courtroom theatrics, just steady storytelling. The look and pacing are clean and tight without feeling rushed.

‘Juror #2’ isn’t here to reinvent the courtroom drama. It sticks to a simple idea, told with control, patience, and just enough bite. And that’s more than enough. If this is Eastwood’s final film, it’s not a curtain call — it’s a quiet fade-out, the director tipping his hat and riding off into the sunset.