Great choice of cast; powerful gritty script

Rating: 8/10 (23 November 2003)

I was expecting great things when I went to see this movie, and I wasn't disappointed.
The cast were great together. Ensemble casts of well known actors don't always ensure a good movie, but not in this case. They worked well together and the script and directing kept them well balanced and tight.
Clint Eastwood has again shown his great ability from the directorial chair. A brilliant choice of script; it was a beautifully paced movie revealing the story piece by piece yet throwing out just enough red herrings to keep the audience guessing.
Plus, he did the music!!!! That I think may have been the biggest surprise while watching the credits.
The script was hard hitting and gritty; very 'real'. That's what gave it it's power. The audience could believe each step along the way. The emotions and scenarios were all too plausible.
This is not airy fairy escapism. It is dark and troubled and gritty in content and an excellent vehicle for the talents of the cast and production team.