Good...But no Great

Rating: Null/10 (18 February 2004)

Mystic River is a very interesting film that keeps you guessing from the very beginning. It is filled with some strong performances and consists of an amazing screenplay. However, it gets lost somewhere. I'm not sure if I heard too much `buzz' surrounding this film that while going into it I was expecting more. It is a really great film, don't get me wrong, but too call it one of the best films of 2003 would be an over statement. It is a story about three childhood friends who reconnect years later after one of their daughters is murdered. The story takes the audience on a wild journey through self-discovery and to a place that no one would like to find themselves. I know that this all may sound a little confusing, I'm saying it's not great but it is good. I can't exactly point out where I felt let down, but I can say that I was a little disappointed by the ending. I thought the story lead us to this horrible place only to say well it wasn't what you thought and the ending is not going to be completely cleared up.
Probably the best aspect of the film is the performance that it's star Sean Penn turns in. This is by far one of the most outstanding performances of the year. He is extremely captivating; he does what not too many actors could have done. He makes you feel for his character only to turn against him for a split moment and then back to a place where you feel bad for him. Tim Robbins gave another amazing performance, this is probably is best to date. Marcia Gay Harden does an excellent job in a role that could have easily been over shadowed. The film itself is a good film, it is not the best film, but it is one of the better films of 2003, it has a great story, an amazing cast, and top-notch performances. 3.0 out of 4, and a B.