Big-city lawyer Hank Palmer returns to his childhood home where his father, the town's judge, is suspected of murder. Hank sets out to discover the truth; along the way he reconnects with his estranged family.
The courtroom drama about a big-city lawyer returning to defend his estranged father is set in small-town Indiana – but filmed in the picture-perfect towns of Massachusetts, where Shelburne Falls became the movie’s homespun heart.
Where was The Judge filmed?
The Judge was filmed across Massachusetts – the town of Shelburne Falls, plus Dedham, Boston and Worcester.
Every location in The Judge, explained
1
The hometown – Shelburne Falls
The film’s small-town Indiana is the real Shelburne Falls, Massachusetts, with its diner and bridge.
2
The courthouse – Dedham
The courtroom scenes used the historic courthouse in Dedham, Massachusetts.
3
The judge’s house – Milton
The family home used a house in Milton, Massachusetts.
4
Boston and Worcester
City and airport scenes used Boston and Worcester.
Planning a visit
Shelburne Falls, Massachusetts – the film’s small-town heart, with its famous Bridge of Flowers – is a charming, accessible New England town.
The Judge Fun Facts
1
Massachusetts plays Indiana The Indiana-set drama was filmed in the towns of Massachusetts.
2
Shelburne Falls The picturesque town of Shelburne Falls plays the hometown.
3
A father-son drama The film centres on a fraught relationship between a lawyer and his judge father.
4
Downey and Duvall Robert Downey Jr. and Robert Duvall lead the film.
5
An Oscar nomination Robert Duvall earned an Academy Award nomination for his role.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where was The Judge filmed?
Across Massachusetts – the town of Shelburne Falls, plus Dedham, Boston and Worcester.
Is it set in Massachusetts?
No – it’s set in small-town Indiana, but filmed in Massachusetts.
Can you visit the locations?
Yes – Shelburne Falls is a charming, accessible New England town.
