movies like this don't have sequels.

What an interesting movie. I managed to keep it together until the very last line of the movie, and then I cracked and cried for a good minute. Probably the absolute best last line I've come across, its like that last punch before being knocked to the ground in a boxing ring. Stroke of cinematic genius. 4.5/5, here's why: slow beginning a few laggy moments in the middle made for a bit of a yawn once in a while. As someone who does not enjoy nor often watch gang/drug/law dramas, I got a little lost near the end as everything was unravelling and B. Afflect started to show us his cards. Too many names & too many dirty cops/friends/family members to keep it straight. I think if I were more interested in that sort of movie, I may have better understood and grasped what was happening. So this point, while valid, may not be applicable to a fiend of this particular genre. I had to strain my ear and rewind a few times; not due to sound volume or quality, but rather the heavy accent used by the cast was a little too on the slurring side, which made me misunderstand whole scenes of discussion. But thats a geographical thing, so again, not entirely applicable to everyone. What I did find captivating was the moral dilemma brought up near the end of the movie; they cleverly made it happen so that a "happy ending" would be almost entirely up to the viewer. I say almost, because there WAS some push from the writers and director towards a negative ending, especially with the very last scene. They want you to think he made the wrong choice. Had they lef out the last scene of the movie, then it would a completely objective ending. Hard to decided whether that was good or bad, but I am leaning towards good, because it did incite a strong emotional response from me, as I am sure it did with most other viewers. Casey Affleck is a much, much better actor than his brother, so much more believable. This was not unlike "The Lovely Bones", but with a heavy twist towards gang and drug related crimes. A good watch for early evening - dont watch if you are tired, you wont stay awake long enough. If you can commit all of your undivided attention towards it, you are rewarded with a shocking, disturbing movie that evokes very strong emotions and thoughts.

WOW great film a must watch lots of twists keeps you guessing 9/10

Outstanding film, never realized how good an actor Casey Affleck was. I will be checking out more of his movies.

A great drama and will not waste your time , a must see.

thought provoking and well acted and all but it does have a few boring parts.

It has action, a wonderful cast, and a great story line. There is one particular scene that is disturbing, but the scene wasn't overplayed! It is definitely a movie that one should add to their collection greats.

GREAT film, I am liking Ben Affleck as a director more and more with each film of his that I see. If you liked "The Town" you will probably like this as well. Casey Affleck was good but it's the supporting cast that puts this above being just an OK movie. Very intensely dramatic.

This was a good movie, kept you guessing through the whole movie. I didn't like the ending. I know he was right but the way it was should be for the best interest of the child not anyone else, especially the mother! I give this movie an 8/10. Good crime drama/thriller

Wonderful movie. The acting was wonderful, the story was wonderful. Very dramatic. Great. This is a must see. 10/10

wow nice twister at the end....

wow what a twist, never saw it coming...

I think despite the last punch it ending was objectiv. I, for one, still think it was the right choice. But they made very clear how hard that choice was, especially with that last word/scene. Great movie.

This was an excellent film...Casey Affleck is a very good actor...The twist and turns were great.

The moral of this story is: some things should just be left alone, especially if EVERYONE you care about is telling you to walk away.

This is a very good movie. It is interesting from the start. Ben Afflek is a good director. I can't say more without revealing too much. 4 out of 5 stars

i quite dont know what to say about this flic. But what i can say is ben afflec did a great job directing and who knew the punk kid from Good Will Hunting good act as good as he did in this. The difference between Moral nad Morally right and wrong is huge. I enjoyed this film and give it a must watch 4/5...

years i have never wanted to see this movie, after reading the comments i decided to give it a shot. it really was a fantastic movie. morgan freeman and ed harris were outstanding. when i heard the affleck brothers were involved...i too was put off. but well done boys!

Thought provoking plot with exceptional acting. It is a mix between action and mystery although it will leave you with a knot in your throat. I recommend this movie to anyone in the mood for a good story and does not mind a dramatic ending.

cops think they can get away with anything

I was also wondering if there may be a part two coming out if not already. Very good movie though.

A wonderful movie that is grounded in reality! It brings to the fore the fact that life does not always have fairy tale endings, and also that in the final analysis, a person has to live with his or her conscience.

Awesome from the beginning to the end, what a great story! Ben Affleck is a good director and his acting has improved much lately. Good choice of actors, hertrending story.A definite MUST SEE!! 9/10

I did not expect that, ending was brillant,didnt see that coming, would highly recommend this film.

This movie leaves the viewer thinking about the choices we make in life,The question that I ask myself after viewing is; how sacred is the bond between mother and child? Does anyone have the right to break that bond, for whatever reason that society ok's, who gives them authority, and why? A child is taken. What will be the cost to all involved, of taking/ restoring this one child from/to her home? Will restoration to her home be good, or bad? Who would take her, and why? Altogether not a bad film. It just left me with many question's about the choices we make, why we make them, and the footprint it leaves on the people/ places involved. How much we might owe to the people we think we are saving? Food for thought, anyway...

A very difficult film to watch for me. First time catching Casey Affleck in action, I think he acts way better than his famous brother, Ben, and this movie proves that.

Hahahhahah that's so funny

Really good movie, very sad, certainly didn't see the twist coming. 9/10

Now this is a thriller .

Superb movie..the acting and the script...the actors that played their roles...all simply brilliant..the twists in the movie in endearing and somewhat sets up back.I felt for all practical purposes he was wrong in doing what he felt was necessary in the end. Stupid boy. you'll understand when you see the film what i mean.! 10/10