The Secret in Their Eyes (2009)

Rating: 10/10 (13 December 2011)

Fantastic crime drama. It begins with Darin attempting to write a novel based on a case from long ago. It's been 25 years since the rape and brutal murder of a young woman. It was a case that just fizzled out after getting too hot. This film is filled with love, revenge and obsession. It plays out in a rich tapestry of events over time. The film prevails against most others due to Rago. He plays the loving husband of the victim. He becomes obsessed with catching the killer, not to kill him, but to make him serve his time. With so many violent revenge fantasies, it's great to finally see a character we can relate to.
The films wonderful story unravels, but does so with unique and satisfying scenes. The football stadium sees action and intrigue take center stage, whilst an elevator scene is sure to send chills through the viewer. The climax was so expertly handled I was giddy to see it all come together. It was an ending that you do see coming, but not so early on that it ruins the film. It also had me contemplating on the nature of good and evil, and punishment itself. It was satisfying, but also made me feel a little cold. An overall excellent film that I can't wait to watch again.