OVERRATED

Rating: Null/10 (7 November 2003)

I think this movie goes beyond "uneven." More like over the top. Sean Penn's performance reminded me of Al Pacino's more embarrassing moments, with self-parody being the keyword. Many of the suppositions were bizarre, with the wife of the abused character's disloyalty among the more unbelievable. The only reason I wasn't totally outraged that I paid $10 to see the movie was Tim Robbins' great understated performance. It was a joy to watch and I wish everyone else had taken note and been more reserved, including Clint Eastwood. The violence went on too long in several scenes, with the death of Dave being the most unbearable for length. This could have been a great movie with a better direction.