Mystic River (2003)

Mystic River is an extremely powerful drama, full of outstanding performances, directed by Clint Eastwood. The story follows three friends, who grew up together but drifted apart after a terrible tragedy changed them all. They come together once more after Jimmy's 19 year old daughter is coldly murdered with one the bereaved father, one the suspect and one the cop. Sean Penn plays James 'Jimmy' Markum, an ex con turned shopkeeper after two years in prison and fatherly responsibilities. It is a powerhouse performance from Penn, gaining him an academy award, as the tormented and wounded soul of Jimmy is skilfully and painfully shown. Tim Robbins plays Dave Boyle, a struggling handy-man, in a role that also gained him an academy award for best supporting actor. Tim Robbins is excellent as well at showing Dave's inner hurt and constant pain recalling that tragic time when he was a kid. Finally, Kevin Bacon plays Detective Sean Devine whose job it is to solve the murder as well his marriage and the boy's fragile relations as adults and he also plays the character very well although he gets less chance to impress as the character is much straighter and not as damaged as the other two. This film has many great things: a outstanding ensemble cast, an intriguing story and excellent direction by Clint Eastwood. The editing is also impressive with beautiful and seamless transitions between scenes and skyline running through the film. The film has so many great aspects about it however I do not believe it's a masterpiece. The story is intriguing but not absolutely engrossing and the overall reveal at the end is slightly disappointing. The film is very good but all in all sits awkwardly between an absorbing character study and a crime drama. It is excellent however. By Jack Cooper