Gripping Intense Drama spoilt by ending !

Rating: 7/10 (28 October 2003)

I thought Mystic River was a good film and a lot better than the hugely over rated 'Unforgiven' but nowhere near an excellent film, (Why not try 'The Pledge') The opening scene was terrific and the menacing kidnap set the scene for the ensuing story which offered so much and indeed delivered until the ridiculous end !
The acting was good apart from Tim Robbins and his wife, who need to understand that viewers are not to keen on 'overacting'
Location was excellent and the feel was great, especially the sweeping night shots from the Mystic River .. and why the reference anyway ?
And why hit us with the ridiculous deep and unrealistic schmaltz speech at the end , drawing close to the rocket science, introspective neurosis, deep thinking that most American child actors seem to adopt ! and unbelievable murder
That said I certainly enjoyed this cinematic experience and found the originality of the story and setting most appealing, and the characters engaging 7/10 !!!