Riveting, mind-blowing, intense film making at its best!!!

Rating: 9/10 (12 October 2006)

After the movie concluded (and it ended in about 4 parts), I practically slumped, exhausted, in my seat. After 2 1/2 hours, almost no one in the theater even stirred. It was an amazing, emotional experience. I felt like I had watched a season of "Deadwood", "The Shield" and "24". Whew!
Since 100's of people have reviewed the plot, I just needed to decompress by saying that the performances were uniformly amazing, right down to the most minute roles. Sensational casting, and Scorcese got them all to nail their performances. Nicholson is never over the top, just the right mix of menacing and zany. DeCaprio, who I felt struggled with "Gangs of NY" and had nothing but crazy to fall back on in "The Aviator", gives an electrifying performance here. He and Nickolson should start working on their acceptance speeches. Not to slight Matt Damon, who has the charismatic baddie role down perfectly. The film is so perfectly cast that I could go on and on (Walhberg & Baldwin had insanely cracking dialog), but must mention Vera Farmiga. If I've seen her before, I don't remember it, but her she handles a very difficult part with great style. She made the "girlfriend" role interesting and meaningful. She was stylish and attractive, without the stunning "movie star" look. Of all the players, she should come away with a huge career boast.
So, a perfect movie? Pretty damn close. I could use a little less violence, but apparently Boston has its own "Mean Streets"!!!!