Reflects the blunt reality of criminal suburban Boston.

Rating: 10/10 (20 March 2020)

I can understand why this movie in particular has such juxtaposed reviews, with the majority of negative assessments focusing on the conflated messaging and injustice which seems to precipitate in the final 20 minutes of run time.
What viewers should not forsake is the blunt reality of life in lower affluent suburbs riddled with crime and gang mentality. The ending in essence perfectly reflects the family culture surrounding crime descending from Irish heritage, with Jimmy admired by his wife, family and allies for his level handedness in the perception of injustice.
The so called 'Mystic' river is thus the relentless scythe within the community, an extension of the will of Jimmy and his followers. Dave may have been innocent and mentally troubled, however his dissociation with the reality of crime, the seriousness of the complications surrounding his whereabouts on the night of the murder, ultimately lead to his demise in a way which whilst an unfortunate event would never be seen as a true tragedy within the close knit community.
For those questioning the actions of Celeste (Dave's wife), for one she was clearly in shock at the events and her husband's erratic behaviour. She would also naturally confide in Jimmy who, as stated above, was seen as the leader and respected figure within the community, not withstanding the fact it is his daughter whom is involved. Drawing parallels to the Godfather and Connie's revelations to Michael regarding her own husbands betrayal of the family, so too does Celeste confide in Jimmy regardless of the likely ramifications to her own husband.
For what it is worth I do see worth in the movie ending at the crossroads of Jimmy walking into the distance of the old road following his revelation to Sean, however I believe the additional run time provides a deeper insight into the psyche and logic behind thoughts and actions portrayed on scene.