Gone Baby Gone

I have been waiting for this movie for a very long time. I certainly envisioned it back when I read all 5 Kenzie/Genaro novels by Dennis Lehane. So to say I had high expectations is putting it lightly. So there was certainly plenty of opportunity for disappointment. But this big screen adaptation of Gone Baby Gone is no let down. Just watching this movie, you would never guess it was directed by a first-timer. Ben Affleck's directorial debut is a memorable one. He has definitely found his calling behind the camera. The storyline is paced just right, the twists are placed just right, and the performances are, you guessed it, just right! This movie is a must-see for several reasons. Besides witnessing Ben's first successful outing as a director, younger brother Casey delivers an amazing performance in his first big leading role. Ed Harris and Morgan Freeman deliver solid supporting roles. The numerous twists keep you guessing. The moral dilemmas that will have you asking yourself "what would I do? " But above all else, I would recommend seeing this movie because Ben Affleck recreates Lehane's Boston underworld as masterfully as Clint Eastwood did in Mystic River. No small feat! This movie is definitely worthy of receiving a few Oscar nominations. Dare I predict: best adapted screenplay for Ben Affleck and Aaron Stockard; lead actor for Casey Affleck; supporting actor for Ed Harris; maybe even Best Picture and Best Director. Wishful thinking? This movie is worthy of it!