realistic performance

Rating: 9/10 (1 October 2010)

A well done film that had great plot twists and surprises in the action. I was not surprised that actors Chris Cooper, Rebecca Hall or Pete Postlewaite were very good in this engaging, slightly nerve-wracking, yet sensitively-portrayed film. But I was very surprised to see Ben Affleck as a.) for once not being totally irritating, b.) being actually likable and you want to root for is character, and c.) directing and starring in a good film. My, my. Blake Lively was completely believable as a troubled, drugged-up townie girl. Jeremy Renner was menacing and moving.The film was well-written, clever, and done in a very non-judgmental, gritty realism style. I liked it all the way through, save the very last corny shot. Now, Mr. Affleck, was that necessary?