The question here is - how far would you go to keep your family safe? Hugh Jackman is a man on the edge in this film, but, does he go over? That's a question each audience member will be asking themselves - is it too far?
The first trailer for this film really didn't give much away, it seemed like a run of the mill detective/mystery thriller. However, this is 2.5 hours of a harrowing journey into the lives of families that have lost children - abducted without a trace. The central characters are portrayed by Hugh Jackman (father of one of the girls) and Jake Gyllenhaal (detective on the case). Both are pretty much brilliant. Hugh missed out on the oscar for Les Miserables, but he could very well bag it for this role. His performance is as realistic and powerful as they come. Jake is superb - taking hard edged cop to new levels.
The supporting cast members are all great. The setting is a bleak small town, and there are no sunny days in this place. It adds to the intense atmosphere. This is a film where you really do wonder where the hell it is going. Will it be a happy ending, or an ultimately hopeless inevitability. Although i felt at times the pacing was just a bit too slow, you're never bored with what is happening. This film is like a fine tooth comb through the shittiest of situations.
It's definitely worth your time. If you like your hardcore dramas, with intense emotions of loss and despair, this is for you. Man, I'm really selling it aren't i? This is oscar worthy stuff - at least for the always great Hugh.
Rating:
4.5 out of 5.
Good review. Wasn't amazing, but was still very thrilling, tense, and altogether, wonderfully acted from all involved.
ReplyDeleteThanks Dan.
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