Gut-wrenching

Rating: 9/10 (11 August 2008)

I don't know how else to describe this movie other than gut-wrenching. This is a very difficult movie to watch, but I think it is extremely well made and delivered with brilliant performances. The subject matter is very heavy and is not a feel-good movie in the least.
Clint Eastwood as director is a genius. I think this and "Million Dollar Baby" are his crowning masterpieces. I think he gets better the older he gets. He certainly hasn't lost his touch.
I think all the performances by the actors were spot on. Each one had me thoroughly convinced as to what they were feeling or experiencing. Total sincerity and genuineness in every character. I think besides Senn Penn, that Marcia Gay Harden's performance was stellar. Her obvious tortured conflict is so apparent, without being over the top. I was really disappointed that she didn't win for Best Supporting Actress, although she was nominated. Penn and Robbins definitely deserved their wins for Best Actor and Supporting Actor.
If you haven't seen this, you have to check it out - a true masterpiece, but be ready for some gut-wrenching drama.