gripping story with a superb cast

Rating: Null/10 (7 March 2007)

Simply riveting crime saga set in a middle-class Boston neighborhood run by a wily Irish-American gangster who uses his reputation, authority, and invaluable connections to stay a step ahead of the police as he carries out his reprehensible schemes. The story focuses on two cops who are closely acquainted with him, one a mole on the inside torn between his lifelong allegiance to the man who put him there and his swiftly rising duty as an officer, the other a young undercover who becomes the newest member of his fearsome crew and has his life thrown into disarray. An absorbing, cat and mouse tale of loyalty and betrayal, duty and devotion, crime and punishment, with terrific performances, crisp dialogue, and sure-handed direction, though the finale feels padded-out. Nicholson—in yet another patented role—is as good as it gets, but he's aided immeasurably by young co-stars Damon, Wahlberg, and DiCaprio who are all extraordinary. Profane and violent, but convincing and funny as well. ***½