The film follows Rudy Baylor (played by Matt Damon), a young and inexperienced attorney who recently graduated from law school. Rudy is struggling to find employment and ends up working for a small law firm run by J. Lyman “Bruiser” Stone (played by Mickey Rourke) and Deck Shifflet (played by Danny DeVito).
Rudy’s first case involves representing Donny Ray Black (played by Johnny Whitworth), a young man who is dying of leukemia. Donny Ray’s insurance company has denied coverage for a potentially life-saving bone marrow transplant, and Rudy takes on the case out of a sense of moral obligation.
As Rudy delves deeper into the case, he uncovers a pattern of corruption and malpractice within the insurance industry. He learns that Great Benefit Insurance, the company responsible for Donny Ray’s coverage, routinely denies legitimate claims to maximize profits.
With the help of Deck, a former insurance assessor turned paralegal, Rudy navigates the legal system and builds a case against Great Benefit Insurance. He faces numerous challenges and setbacks along the way, including threats and intimidation from the insurance company’s legal team.
Rudy’s tenacity and determination ultimately pay off when he secures a favorable verdict for Donny Ray and his family. The court orders Great Benefit Insurance to pay for Donny Ray’s medical treatment, setting a precedent that could potentially benefit countless other victims of insurance fraud.
In the end, Rudy emerges as a skilled and compassionate attorney, dedicated to fighting for justice and making a difference in the lives of his clients. He decides to leave the corrupt law firm and strike out on his own, determined to continue using his legal skills to help those in need.
“The Rainmaker” is praised for its compelling story, strong performances, and thought-provoking exploration of themes such as corporate greed, legal ethics, and the pursuit of justice. It’s a gripping legal drama that keeps audiences engaged from start to finish, showcasing the talents of its cast and the skill of its director.