Review of Gone Baby Gone (2007) by Nathan M — 04 Jun 2013
Moral ambiguity defines this sharp Boston thriller from first time director Ben Affleck. Affleck could not have asked for a more acclaimed directorial debut. Extremely well cast with each actor fulfilling their characters to the perfect extent in stripped down realistic performances.
The film felt more realistic than the more stylized The Departed. You find yourself encompassed in intense debate about the morality of the characters' actions. Casey Affleck excels in his first lead role as a much-tougher-than-he-looks detective.
Morgan Freeman, Ed Harris, and Michelle Monaghan all add extra dimension to the already well acting ensemble. The story walks along and uses all of its contemplation time productively, opening new windows and unfolding new sections of the plot's map the whole time.
Ben Affleck uses a page from Gus Van Sant's book in his use of Boston as a character in the story, much like in Good Will Hunting. The fact that nobody is excessively glossy adds another layer of realism.
The cinematography is magnificent using time lapse and sweeping aerials to pleasing effect. All in all, we can view this film dually as a crime thriller where all the pieces fall into place and the initiation of Ben Affleck as being a directorial force to be reckoned with.
This review of Gone Baby Gone (2007) was written by Nathan M on 04 Jun 2013.
Gone Baby Gone has generally received very positive reviews.
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