Scorsese is on top once again with this fantastic crime thriller

Rating: 9/10 (18 October 2006)

Martin Scorsese rises to the peak of his directorial skills once again. His return to the world of crime equals his return to prominence. Leonardo DiCaprio brings his best performance of his career, Jack Nicholson gives a performance worthy of his colossal acting ability and notoriety, and Matt Damon adds even more depth to the story that kept me entertained, thrilled, and in suspense throughout. In particular, though, it was the "other" supporting actors that made this film great: Mark Wahlberg, Martin Sheen, and Alec Baldwin. Wahlberg's coarse and biting tongue was brilliantly on display whenever he was on screen as Dignam. His dialogue was some of the best of the film, and it is easily his best performance. Martin Sheen was very good as Queenan, who was emotionally connected to Costigan and tried his best to keep him from going off the edge. Meanwhile, there was Alec Baldwin, who provided the perfect amount of comic relief. Vera Farmiga was also good in support, but her role was not as outstanding as her male counterparts. The dialogue was crisp and unrelenting, the violence brutal and unremitting. The ending, despite some negative feedback, made me love the film even more. The ending was in fact my favorite part about this film. I was satisfied, shocked, and depressed all at once. The range of emotions this film provides is brilliant in it's own right. The credit should be given to Scorsese once more, as well as to DiCaprio and the rest of the cast. The editing was unapologetic, fast, and smart, and the culmination of the film left me wanting to see it again right away. Whether or not this film is a remake does not bear weight after viewing what exactly this film represents. The gritty city of Boston plays host to a magnificent film and certainly a possible Oscar contender. Mr. Scorsese, you have done it once more.
10/10