Rating of
3.5/4
Mystic River review
Daniel Corleone - wrote on 12/21/11
Jimmy (Penn) is an ex-con running a neighborhood store, while Dave (Robbins) is a blue-collar worker meet after 25 years. Sean (Bacon), who is now a detective with the Massachusetts State Police, discovers Katie's corpse. Sergeant Whitey Powers (Laurence Fishburne) and Sean investigates the murder case. The day Katie was murdered, Celeste (Marcia Gay Harden) sees her husband with a bloody stomach and hand. Katie suspects Dave of killing Jimmy’s daughter and informs Sean about her suspicion. Brendan and Ray Jr. confront each other while John is caught in the middle. Those responsible of Katie’s death confessed in the end while another was unfortunately blamed. Highlights of the film would be Jimmy finding out his daughters body, his talk outside the house with Dave, and when Dave begs for his life. Virtuoso acting at its finest.
The screenplay was noteworthy with lines like “He’s in a world full of hurt.” from Powers, Jimmy – “"if only you had been a little faster.” Dave – “Maybe someday you forget what it's like to be human and maybe then, its ok.” Sean – “I'm sorry. I need you to know that. I pushed you away.” and from Annabeth – “And that their daddy would do whatever he had to for those he loved. And that is never wrong. That can never be wrong, no matter what he had to do.” Screenplay, score and cinematography were good. Each central figure had inner demons, Dave who was sexually harassed as a kid; Jimmy’s rambunctious past with his over protective nature and marriage on the rocks for Sean who is dedicated to his work. Penn and Robbins were just impressive which deserved their respected wins, but Marcia Gay Harden was equally sensational despite some short dialogues. Mystic River is a wonderful multi-awarded drama with fine acting with fluid storytelling that is a majestic masterpiece from the director.
