A wonderful crime-drama

Rating: 8/10 (25 October 2007)

When I saw "Hollwoodland" last year I could not help but be impressed with Ben Affleck's terrific portrayal of George Reeves, Hollywood's original Superman. Not to say it was his first good performance, but as of late he hasn't brought much to the screen in terms of quality work (Daredevil anyone?). With his directorial debut, "Gone Baby Gone", I think Mr. Affleck has found his stride in a way that he has never before found on screen. The film is based on Dennis Lehane's novel of the same name. He also penned "Mystic River" which Clint Eastwood turned into an Oscar-winning masterpiece, so the comparisons are inevitable, but I think Affleck's film stands strongly on its own.
"Gone Baby Gone" tells the gritty story of private investigators Patrick Kenzie, played by Casey Affleck, and his partner/girlfriend Angie Gennero, played by Michelle Monaghan, as they attempt to track down a missing four-year-old girl in south Boston. Telling you more than this is impossible because the twists and turns in this film come at such a fast and furious pace that anymore info could ruin the viewing experience.
Casey Affleck's performance is terrific. When first I heard that Ben Affleck was using his brother, who is probably best known for his role as Virgil Malloy in Ocean's 11 and both its sequels, I was a little skeptical, yet I could not have been more wrong. He seems to blend into the neighborhood like he belongs, which of course he is supposed to. Patrick seems aloof, sometimes funny, but that quickly changes as events spiral out of control. Later in the film when he makes some decisions that will surprise you, I think the audience understands why, even if they don't agree with him. This is a real breakout role, the younger Affleck's first real commercial lead and I think we will see more of him sooner rather than later. I for one am looking forward to future projects from him.
That said "Gone Baby Gone" has some of the best supporting performances you could ask for. Ed Harris' performance as the police detective heading the investigation is fierce. He is a terrific counterpoint to Casey Affleck's quiet, more subtle role. Morgan Freeman, who plays the police captain overseeing the investigation, is good, but he has such little screen time that he takes a back seat to everyone else. Michelle Monaghan has done a terrific job as the uncomfortable partner/girlfriend who thinks they are in over their head before they even begin. Last but certainly not least is the setting of south Boston itself. Ben Affleck's use of real locations and local extras really shows the downtrodden lifestyle of Southie. Everyone and everyplace fit perfectly.
It took guts for Ben Affleck to take on such a heavy piece on his first attempt. The subject of child abduction and the moral quandaries the character's face is daunting to say the least. The overall "what would you be willing to do to save a child" theme is not light fare, but I think Ben Affleck has brought it together wonderfully. "Gone Baby Gone" is a real stand out in the crime-drama genre and may even see some recognition come awards season.