Very good, thought-provoking film

Rating: 8/10 (18 November 2007)

There were a few small decisions I would have made differently than Ben Affleck, but the film is extremely well-done, and I was very impressed.
This adaptation of a Dennis Lehane novel is almost as good as Mystic River, an excellent film, properly recognized at Oscar time.
Casey Affleck looks quite young, but the point of his age is brought up in the script, so at least it was addressed. Not having read the novel, I don't know if this followed Lehane's work.
The plot is complex, dealing with law and order and differing approaches to same. It seems to come to an early conclusion, only to go on to further complexities. A friend with whom I saw and discussed the film differed from me in her opinion on whether the proper decision was made in the end.
Gone, Baby, Gone is highly recommended for its performances, particularly that of Amy Madigan, and for its overall quality. I sincerely hope the Academy recognizes the outstanding work of Ms Madigan.