San Diego is My Home

30
Oct

Gone Baby, Gone

Author: HelenKay, Category: Movies

If you’re looking for a movie and are not in the mood for Saw IV or Shrek 52 or some other sequel, you might check out Gone Baby, Gone.  Adapted from the Dennis Lehane novel, this Ben Afleck directoral debut is not a feel-good movie.  It starts with the kidnapping of a young child and then follows the detectives and family as the girl’s story unfolds. 

Do not expect happy, simple or easy.  In fact, one of the strengths of the movie is that it asks more quesitons than it answers.  What is the right thing to do in an unspeakable situation?  What happens when the question isn’t as simple as good versus evil?  And, are there times when the end truly does justify the means? 

Strong acting and writing drag the viewer into the story.  The use of South Boston as another character, with the vivid language and regional locales, adds to the atmosphere of the film.  All of that results in a movie that stays with you long after the credits roll.  This is one where you and your friends will debate what you would have done in lead Casey Afleck’s position.  You likely will disagree on the answer.  In other words, this movie entertains while making you think.  For that, alone, Ben Afleck should be praised for making the jump from acting to standing behind the camera.

Check here for times and theaters.