Review of Reservation Road (2007) by Erno K — 12 Jul 2008

Let me just start with the happy thought that the judicial system is fucked up everywhere in the world. A murderer can easily get just 10 years behind bars. After destroying a life and possibly ruining many people in the process, the fucker really gets off easy. But hey, my country is even worse. He'd probably get off with a fine of some kind and maybe 2 years probation or some shit.

The interesting question is, however, what would you do if you knew who killed your child. I'd know my answer pretty quickly, if I knew my actions wouldn't impact anyone else. But that's just it, they always will, and this movie deals with some of these issues very well.

Coping with a loss is also incredibly hard, and we get to see different survival strategies. But the interesting angle is that even the villain is a very human character, who tries to live with his guilt and get on with his own problems. All this together make some compelling watching. The actors are top notch, but I honestly wouldn't expect any less from Phoenix and Connelly anymore. Therefore, the only surprise was Ruffalo, although not really, as I kind of knew he's pretty good too. Anyway, they all rock.

I just checked how this movie did at the box office and was stunned. The widest release was 39 theaters. 39! With such a cast why the hell didn't they market the shit out of this one. What a shame. Combined gross: $965,440. That's so sad.

Do yourself a favor and check this puppy out if you like quality drama and real human emotions.