Incredibly tense.

Rating: Null/10 (23 July 2004)

When I first put the DVD in the player, I had no idea of what to expect. And for that, I am glad. I had not read a single review, and had never read the book. I was positively surprised. Eastwood has delivered one of the greatest movies in his career. And that is saying a lot.
Be warned though. This movie will have you at the edge of your seat from beginning till end. A combination of a great story along with highly talented actors, as well as being directed by one of the great people in the film industry ever, makes this movie unique. The characters are conflicting with each other in a way that makes you feel the need for taking breaks while watching the film. Tim Robbins delivers his second best performance in his career only topped by his performance as Andy Dufresne in "The Shawshank Redemption." Sean Penn is amazing as usual.
Whenever you think this film has reached its climax, it takes you one step further. Sometimes it is directly uncomfortable. You find yourself clutching the arms of your chair and shaking your head while muttering something under your breath regarding what the characters are doing. When the movie reached its true climax, it felt like my heart was about to explode.
If I was to summarize the entire film in one word, I would say: "Tense." Watch it. Hopefully, you will not regret it. I did not.