Hilary Swank is an acting goddess

Rating: Null/10 (13 March 2005)

First, I would like to say that every actor hopes to land a role of a lifetime. This is that one role for Hilary Swank. I know that we will see her for years to come in other roles but this could be the role that defines her career. She deserves it. She is the most gracious person to walk the red carpet at the Academy Awards. I don't know if anyone caught it but when she was interviewed on the red carpet, she thanked her 5th grade teacher for giving her the chance to do a skit in front of the class. She even said his name. She is one classy individual! She really conditioned hard for this role. She is ripped in the gym! She really looks like a boxer. It's a gritty performance. That is what makes it such a pleasure to watch. She is not afraid to take on the roles that do not show off her beauty. She is gorgeous but she chooses not to take the fluffy, cutesy romantic leads that too many others get sucked into doing for the big money. That is why I applaud her. She will be remembered as a great actor.
Morgan Freeman is also exceptional. He is such a good actor. He does it so effortlessly. He said in an interview that Eastwood doesn't like to do a lot of takes. Freeman said that is okay with him but you better come to the scene prepared to deliver. Eastwood likes to use an economy of scale method in order to stay within budget. He's very professional and likes to work with others that hold the highest standards of excellence as well.
I like films that have conflict and good character development. This movie has both. It is a touching relationship between Clint Eastwood's character and Hilary's. It develops so expertly. You really have to hand it to Eastwood. He has reached a level of directing others in his class envy. He is doing some of his best work in his later years when most actors his age walk off into the sunset.
He's an actor's director. Although it is a formula film, the characters are so strong and compelling, you just can't help but care about them. This film made me misty eyed. Any film that can evoke emotions from its audience such as this is definitely worth the price of admission. Don't forget to bring the Kleenex.