Review of What Doesn't Kill You (2008) by Walter M — 20 Apr 2010

In "What Doesn't Kill You," Brian(Mark Ruffalo) and Paul(Ethan Hawke) are two small time thieves who have to give a percentage of their earnings to the local mob in South Boston. They are frustrated at the lack of promotion, especially with Brian supporting his wife Stacy(Amanda Peet) and two sons. An opportunity arises when Pat Kelly(Brian Goodman, who also directed and co-wrote), the boss, is sent up the river on an old murder charge. So, Paul and Brian go freelance, dreaming of even taking down an armored car someday...

Based on a true story, "What Doesn't Kill You" is a kitchen sink drama about two men who try to steal everything but the kitchen sink, including your hearts, that is raised above the routine by the lived-in performances from Mark Ruffalo and Ethan Hawke. Alas, the same cannot be said for Amanda Peet. The movie has a preachy tone when it comes to exploring the choices we make in life but it is refreshing that the out of control friend is the family man this time around. And you know times are tough when even the criminal element has a hard time making ends meet.