Don't be fooled by the rating or its place on the top 250

Rating: 1/10 (19 October 2004)

Terrible, Terrible movie. I still don't see a point to it. Sure, the characters are developed well.....but they are developed towards the most ridiculous plot I've witnessed in a movie to date.
The story itself as a mystery is satisfying to start, but in efforts to effect emotion in the viewer, is taken to absurd levels. Many argue that the acting is believable, I think its so overdone that it can't be taken seriously, especially if you keep in mind the ludicrous nature of the plot. Sean Penn is once again lauded by many, in a violent role that is apparently also supposed to show angst and feelings of being torn, he instead in my opinion comes across as an irrational person.
The only acting job worth commending is that of Robbins, who plays his character to perfection. Out of any in the cast, he definitely comes the closest to a real performance.
Clint Eastwood was given praise for his directorial work, which, given the intentions of the film, is also unworthy. It seems that the actors live in their own little worlds.....from what i've read, apparently this is because it makes the viewer more involved in the story....but really, it doesn't.
My major gripe with this movie is this: it doesn't achieve its goal. I don't complain if I know the movie is aiming low beforehand, and fulfills those expectations. Mystic River is promoted and talked about as an intellectual, dramatic work, with some kind of emotion to be drawn from it in the end. In reality, I was treated to absurdity.
Don't waste your time:
D-