Perfect in every aspect.

Rating: 10/10 (8 November 2003)

I was skeptical about this movie after seeing the previews a few months ago. I like Clint Eastwood and I think he has both acted in and directed many superb films over the last 40+ years; his last few films have not lived up to his high standards though. Blood Work, Space Cowboys and True Crime...you've seen, or at least heard of, the evidence. I honestly believed he was finished making movies one could consider great. I thought Unforgiven would be remembered as his swan song. I was very wrong.
Mystic River has to be the best Hollywood movie this year. If I see one that tops it it would have to be great on the level ofLawrence of Arabia or Dr. Strangelove. While this film is not on par with Lean or Kubrick's masterpieces, it is definitely one of Eastwood's finest and may surpass Unforgiven, one of the finest Western's I've seen.
I can't think of much I can write about the story or plot that wouldn't betray something of importance. Every piece of information given to the audience somehow seems vital to the story's weaving and unravelling. The story unfolds over what seems to be four or five days at the most. It involves three men who were once best friends in their youth until an horrific event splinters their tight cell. They remain in Boston as adults and thirty years later they are reunited by a single event that pits one against the other.
This synopsis is a little vague--for a reason though. Once you see it you will realize why the previews were just as ambiguous in their revalations. Trust me. You should see it. It will not disappoint.