Another Clint Classic

Rating: 9/10 (17 June 2009)

If anyone read my "Unforgiven" review, you will know that I am a Clint fan-boy, so I will try not to sound biased. This is my second favorite Clint film, next to "Unforgiven." The film, like most Clint films, embraces the consequences of violence and crime. It also focuses on people with regrettable past and just wish that they could forget about it, but they can't. The cast is flat-out incredible (except for Laura Linney, who I thought could have done better). Sean Penn and Tim Robbins provide convincing, uncompromising characters. Kevin Bacon, as always, does just as well. The only negative to this wonderful mystery thriller is certain unbelievable characters such as the Savage brothers. That, however, is not really JUST my place to decide. Still, I believe this should have been the Best Picture winner in place of LOTR 3. Don't get me wrong the Return of the King was fantastic, but it still didn't top this. Many people seem to complain about the ending and all I can say (because I don't want to give away anything) is that it would have been almost betrayal for Sean Devine (Kevin Bacon) to act against Jimmy Markum (Sean Penn) for what he did (in his own mind). Also Devine implied he would eventually "get" Markum. I just wanted to stop the naysayers here and now. Go see this regardless of whether seeing it already because those who have seen it may enjoy it upon second viewing, like in my case with "Iron Man." 9.5/10 stars