For years we have seen one director after another put their distinctive vision on a film, that may or may not suit everyone sitting down to watch the picture. Most moviegoers don’t even know who directed the film, only going based on a star or genre. But, when an actor changes hats and directs, like Ben Affleck did with “Gone Baby Gone,” I took notice in a big way. Who better than an actor to get behind the camera to take a shot at directing? Clint Eastwood has made a second career at this, so why not; especially when you’ve gone through as much as Ben Affleck has during the past 10 years. So with his second film, “The Town,” set to hit theaters this Friday, I couldn’t think of a better time to showcase his directorial debut, which can be found on DVD at your local retail outlet or online at Netflix.com.
The story in this one won’t get you all warm and fuzzy, but it will get you thinking. It starts with an abduction of a 4-year-old girl and the search to find her. That search reached the doorstep of an unknown private detective team made up of Patrick (Casey Affleck) and Angie (Michelle Monaghan), still ‘green’ but capable of helping. The family of the little girl was looking for some extra help, unsatisfied with the local police’s effort. One of the assigned police detectives to the case was Remy (Ed Harris), a rugged and often brash cop who has been around the block a couple times over. The other was the police captain himself, Doyle (Morgan Freeman), who didn’t seem to care for any private detectives, no matter the shape or size. Begrudgingly, they band together in search for Amanda, which was a little more complicated than first thought after learning more about the drug-induced mother Helene (Amy Ryan) and her trips to feed her habit. But, as Patrick and co. got closer to finding little Amanda, the more twisted it became, leading to an unlikely conclusion where he’s left with nothing but his own dignity.
After several small roles in a host of films, we finally got the chance to see what Casey Affleck can really do. All it took was for his brother to direct a film. That’s a shame because Casey is quite the young talent and believe it or not, the better actor of the two. Maybe it’s not fair to compare the two brothers, but why not? Truth is, everyone will and although Casey has been in quite a few films, no one really has seen what he is made of outside the “Ocean’s Eleven” series, which was a good role for him, but not one to show what he could really do given the right script and film.
And although this film is a little rough around the edges, Ben trusted his brother could handle it and Casey did, plus some. He wasn’t alone in this one, however, as there were a couple vets’ on board, neither of which that overshadowed Affleck. In fact, given their individual roles, I think Ed Harris and Morgan Freeman did an admirable job in keeping it simple. Sometimes I think it’s the little things that a Freeman or Harris do that make movies, even when it’s one that neither of them have a lead role in. So, I was pleased with the effort and at no point distracted from the other young talent on board.
There’s no doubt prior to watching this film, I had lower than low expectations for “then” first-time director Ben Affleck. With “Gone Baby Gone,” Affleck never got ahead of himself, allowing all the little things that make his hometown unique come out beautifully. He was able to capture the aura of Boston and everything it had to offer, good and bad. And that’s impressive, considering the complexity of the script which he helped write. Based off a story from Mystic River author Dennis Lehane, Ben was able to create a setting that drew the audience in, despite the difficult topic. His personal touch was undeniable as you watched the extreme drama unfold right before your eyes, leaving you with an unexpected message when it was all said and done. So, take my word for it and just watch this film on DVD, as it gives you a great idea of who Ben Affleck, the director, is.
B+
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I truly agree with your critique of this movie. Ben Affleck definitely showed that he has what it takes behind the cinema with his directorial debut. The performances, the story, the atmosphere were absolutely astounding. I would highly recommended it to anyone.
I was completely blown away by this movie when I saw it, and frankly wondered why the older Affleck had ever bothered getting in front of a camera when he’s this good in front of one.
You’re absolutely right in saying that Casey is the better actor, delivering a really powerful performance here. Ben has the nerve to tell an edgy story and paces it perfectly, never rushing towards his climactic moments, but letting even one-scene characters shine.
One thing I would disagree with you on though is the idea that this is Casey’s first chance to really display his talents. “The Assassination of Jesse James by the Coward Robert Ford” was an equally accomplished role.
I really enjoyed this movie myself, and it makes me excited to see more behind the scenes work from both brothers. In my opinion, after all, Ben is FAR better behind the camera than in front of it, and it looks like The Town will further prove that. And Casey is directing I’m Still Here, a movie I’ve been intrigued by for some time and am excited to have coming to my local arthouse theater!
And I also agree that The Assassination of Jesse James by the Coward Robert Ford was a fantastic starring role on Affleck’s part… And for being the director’s second film, it was a true gem. (Though Dominik’s Chopper starring Eric Bana was also phenomenal.) This was a completely overlooked film, and unfortunately, Gone, Baby, Gone stole the spotlight in terms of Casey Affleck films. (Though, I loved both movies… I just feel that both should have gotten recognition and not have one outshine the other.)
I love the moral line drawn in this movie meant no doubt to set up debate once it is over. I agree, a great movie and after this great movie i am more than excited to take in “The Town”. Most have seen this movie I’m sure but perhaps for those who havn’t, you could go a little more in depth about the movie itself. It seems to be all about Ben Affleck. Anyway, no biggie. A good review for a good film.