It's the echo of karma...

Rating: Null/10 (9 October 2003)

This is a truly emotionally haunting, complex and disturbing film that seems to want to remind us that violence begets never-ending violence. The happenings seem to conjure up the concept of karma as I follow the lives of the characters, especially as in the case of Sean Penn's Jimmy. Excellent performances from Sean Penn, Tim Robbins and Kevin Bacon! Their characters  three friends - draw me deep into the analytical observation of their traits, behavior and circumstances. I was kept bouncing between the good and evil of their souls. With this film, Penn has become my No. 1 favorite for the Oscar statuette! I'd be surprised if this film isn't nominated for the Best Adapted Screenplay award. Tim Robins, with his Dave's facial demeanor, grips at my heart. What a perfect actor for the Dave role! Marcia Gay Hayden's performance credibly becomes the solid bridge between the incredible depth of interaction between the Dave and Jimmy characters. The story flows wonderfully on screen and stays true and loyal to Dennis Lehane's novel of the same title.
Is the film drawing a fine line between revenge and the psychological weight of suffering? Should I be wondering who is purportedly the real victim of the story? Should I be looking at the rippling effects of guilt that never seem to leave the victim(s)? Under the brilliant direction of Clint Eastwood and the remarkably superb performances of the whole cast ensemble, the awful truth about twisted and profound human psyches develop beautifully, layer by layer. I was literally holding my breath, puffing out soft gasps at intervals, as I followed each character and each event. Yep, this film is filled with exceedingly touching elements.
A real tough and phenomenally intense movie to watch! Eastwood has given the audience a very dark film in which every actor delivers an essentially awesome part to make the whole soulful and captivating. I choked with grief as the final tragic twist unfolds  exactly as how I had choked when I finished reading the novel. It's an unforgettable film. I'd be surprised if I don't get to see the names of Eastwood, Penn, Robbins and Hayden in the coming Oscar nominations. Hhhmh, I'd say it's one of the best adapted screenplay made into an artistically marvelous onscreen masterpiece!
A+