Mystic River (R, 2003)

This is a fantastic movie it is one of my favorite. but it is also very violent not for kids under 14+

Both Kill Bill and Mystic River deal with violence, but in very different ways. I think they are both amazing films, but it is interesting to see the exploitive blood spillage in Kill Bill and the few acts of violence in Mystic River contrast each other. Mystic River has one act of sexual violence that transcends generations and becomes part of a Boston neighborhood. The acts of violence in this film carry weight that is too much for these characters to carry in their hearts, and eventually their true colors are displayed. The metaphor for the River and the acts of human beings is strong and well displayed. The river runs always ahead, looking pretty much the same on the top. But under the surface are secrets, bodies, and murder weapons. Much as the way we see a normal Boston neighborhood, but under the surface characters show their weaknesses and strengths through acts of kindness, murder, and sorrow. Note: There can not be enough praise for Clint Eastwood in this film. He strips the story down to its bare essentials, and lets the actors dominate the screen. Every actor in this film is at the top of their game. This is Sean Penn's greatest performance.