Over 70% of positive reviews mention Edward Norton by name. His performance is consistently cited as elevating a "standard" or "competent" script.
| Film | Tomatometer | Audience Score | Year | | :--- | :--- | :--- | :--- | | Primal Fear | 77% | 85% | 1996 | | A Few Good Men | 84% | 89% | 1992 | | The Firm | 76% | 75% | 1993 | | The Lincoln Lawyer | 84% | 82% | 2011 | | Fracture | 72% | 69% | 2007 | primal fear rotten tomatoes
Critics on Rotten Tomatoes generally agree on one thing: the movie belongs to its breakout star, . The site’s official consensus describes the film as a "straightforward, yet entertaining thriller elevated by a crackerjack performance from Edward Norton". Over 70% of positive reviews mention Edward Norton by name
The film's plot, which revolves around a young altar boy accused of murder and the lawyer who defends him, was also widely praised. The film's exploration of themes such as faith, morality, and the complexities of human nature were also noted by critics. The site’s official consensus describes the film as