Reminds me of how films used to be....

Rating: 10/10 (4 November 2003)

**POSSIBLE SPOILERS**
We need more films like Mystic River. Nowadays, when Hollywood is full of mindless, popcorn movies, Clint Eastwood takes us back to when good stories and great acting was the blueprint of a good movie. I love Clint Eastwood for his 'human' films; note some of his past works such as Unforgiven, Blood Work & Absolute Power. He always gives his audience a humble, down-to-Earth film when he directs. Mystic River works because of this quality more than anything. Unlike someone like Michael Bay (notably Bad Boys 2), he doesn't get too full of himself where he has to pour himself, his 'style' and his 'signature' into a movie. He steps back and simply tells a human story; and the beauty of that is a sight to behold and greatly appreciated by me.
The acting in Mystic River drives it. An all-star cast to say the least, Sean Penn gives a masterful performance; balancing the two sides of his character flawlessly. On one side is the former criminal who still has some ties to his past, and on the other is the honorable father who would do anything for family. Tim Robbins was cast perfectly as the trouble Dave; only he could've given the little nuances he did to add so much to the character, like his facial expressions. Kevin Bacon, who I neither love or hate, played his part very well; subtle enough to portray the hard-nosed cop and grieving soon-to-be divorcee perfectly. Laurence Fishburne, although its always nice to see him, didn't really need to be here; anyone could've played his role. Oscar talk has surfaced, and rightfully so; Sean Penn definitely has my vote for Best Actor. Tim Robbins could very well win Best Supporting Actor, he was excellent.
Mystic River is great because of the statement it gives... taking us back to the days of films like The Godfather, Apocalypse Now and Goodfellas. It serves as a reminder to us skeptics that there still is great talent out there regardless of the overabundance of garbage put out constantly. A good movie can indeed be made without CGI, explosions and slo-mo gun battles....just great actors and a riveting story. THIS is why the critics have raved about Mystic River; its a good old-fashioned 'movie' without all the extras. Mystic River is a masterpiece in my eyes, and I would be highly disappointed if it's not recognized at the Oscars, particularly Sean Penn. One of the best films of 2003.
*** 1/2 out of **** stars.