Iffy for 16+
Deeply affecting crime thriller for grownups.
What Parents Need to Know
Parents need to know that this crime thriller (which is Ben Affleck's directorial debut) is so disturbing in spots that it may even make adults flinch. It doesn't shy away from the story's dark elements -- of which a 4-year-old's abduction is just the beginning. There's also neglect, drug use, barroom brawls, gunplay, murder, and plenty of strong language (including "f--k"). That said, older teens and grown ups who do end up seeing it will likely be able to look past the base, repugnant characters and appreciate the leads, who are compassionate and dedicated and fight for justice.
- Families can talk about why people will want to see this movie -- because of the story, or because Ben Affleck directed it? Why do you think some actors choose to go into directing? Which role gives them more power within the media industry, and why? Families can also discuss how the media handles stories about missing people, particularly children. Do you think cases are covered differently based on their circumstances (i.e. a child being kidnapped from a tough, working-class neighborhood instead of a pretty, manicured suburb)? If so, why?
The good stuff
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Messages: This is a dark and dreary world, peopled by junkies, neglectful parents, drug dealers, corrupt cops, and morally bankrupt city officials. They lie and hurt to protect themselves and their livelihood, sometimes to the detriment of a child's life.
What to watch for
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Violence: Heavy and brutal, and a sense of menace pervades the film. Guns are trained on people at point-blank range and fired fairly frequently, killing more than one victim (one scene reveals what happens when someone is shot in the head). Realistic, painful barroom brawls. Crimes are perpetrated against children, who are also severely neglected.
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Sex: Some kissing and sexual innuendos, but nothing explicit. Some references to sexual acts.
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Language: Strong and frequent, including "c--ksucker," "pu--y," jackass," and the always-popular "f--k."
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Consumerism: Nothing really obvious. Names of some drugs and the occasional store signage.
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Drinking, drugs and smoking: Viewers don't really see any explicit scenes in which characters shoot up or snort drugs, but there's lots of talk about it, including discussion of "bumping rails" (snorting drugs) in bathrooms and doing heroin. Plenty of drinking, especially in dark, seedy bars.
Fan Reviews provided by
5
Gone Baby Gone. by Daydream
This strong directing debut by Ben Affleck was very well written and full of intense dialogue. As private detectives, Casey Affleck and Michelle Monaghan investigate a case of a missing child. Amy Ryan has a stand-out performance as the unsympathetic low-life mother of the missing child who winds up making all the wrong decisions. There are some graphic scenes, but this movie keeps you on the edge of your seat until the very end. The story gradually unfolds and keeps you guessing all the way through. One of the best movies I have seen this fall. See it in theatres!
5
A Must See!! and a side note to fandango abusers by Raider777
So I was reading through the reviews on this flick and I felt highly compelled to say a few things. First of all, if you are not an avid reader or if you have a hard time following movies that require any type of abstract thought then this movie is not for you. In the age empty movies, finally in the manner of its predecessor mystic river, another movie provokes some thought. This movie is well paced and intense at parts. There is heavy language throughout, just like the caption says. Casey Affleck will hopefully finally recieve the spotlight he deserves with this movie. Acting is great, plot is great again, (Dennis Lehane, thank you very much,) and the feeling you are left with will give you plenty to talk about after. Those of you who seem intent on rating a movie based on the language, time, or director......make sure you read the captions next time, seems a little ridiculous that you dont know what you are getting into, and then you complain when its not what you wanted.
5
Gone Baby Gone by Shelbe888
Great writing and acting, with an overall performance that stood up to the book itself. Amy Ryan was amazing in her role as the missing child's mother.
4
Go, Baby, Go by joegiustra
Go, if just for the acting by Casey Afleck and that great message, that the baby is gone, baby, gone when it goes back, baby, goes back. Plenty of action, suspense, and an unexpected plot twist that makes you think. Ahh, THINKING -- so rare an experience in watching most movies from those dull dustbins of hollywood. The sad ending reminds us of how stupid the law can be.
4
Moral Dilemas Abound... by devora94123
This movie is incredibly thought provoking. Casey Affleck is brilliant and Ben's direction borderline flawless... The moodiness of the film was depicted so well it was like I was in the South of Boston watching real life go by... There are a number or moments when making the "right" decision is nearly impossible - this conflict is so truly portrayed you are struggling right along with the characters. Go see this movie with someone you can talk to afterwards - the conversation I promise you will be stimulating.
5
All you can say is whoa... by joshonki
This is a very intense movie. It doesn't even give you time to settle into your seat and you are hanging on the whole time.
Casey Affleck should win something big for his performance. Amazing supporting cast too.
This is one of the few films that demonstrates how there is nothing that is black and white in life, only thousands of shades of gray.
5
Incredible!!! by J-Daddy
Well done Affleck brothers! I read the book 3 years ago, and was very worried that the movie wouldn't capture the emotion. It did!!! I found myself filled with the same rage, sorrow, shock, disgust, and relief that I had while reading the book. Dennis Lehane is one of today's best authors, and I hope hollywood continues to green light his books. Mystic River and Gone Baby Gone show how powerful they can be if done correctly. I would love to see Shutter Island made into a movie, but only if it is done as well as MR and GBG.
5
Ben Affleck Finds His Nitch by ashy_anna
Good Will Hunting was a fabulous movie and proved to the world that Ben Affleck deserves to be taken seriously in the film world. His turns in front of screen did not prove to be well-deserved. His move to behind the camera was an intelligent play and lucky for the audience. I was dually impressed by Casey Affleck's intensity and everyman qualities. The movie was authentic Boston and a modern Sophie's Choice.
5
Outstanding! by oldsoldier
I could not believe the breathtaking results this movie produces. It was crafted by a master and Ben Affleck deserves the credit for putting a cast and stroy together that was stimulating and gripping. The cast did an outstanding job of depicting the underbelly of Boston and one felt little compassion for a drugged up whore of a mother who was abusive to her daughter despite promises to god and saints. The actors were superb in thier roles and each played masterfully so that you hated the right people and loved the right people. Cassey's role was played with justice and empahty for a man torn between what is right and what is just. I give this film a 21 gun salute for it's outstanding story, acting and screen play. Well Done!
5
Excellent! Must see and full of Oscar performances! by elibutton
I had to see this before it left the theaters based on the rave reviews, and I can honestly say that I was so happy to have caught it! Kudos to Ben Affleck as he has my nod for an Oscar nomination for his awesome Directorial skills, and Kasey Affleck has my nomination for Best Actor for his brilliant performance - which has taken him to a whole new level. He's matured beyond his most recent Oceans 11, 12, and 13 charactcatures as I was extremely impressed with his poise, presence, and overall performance.
Ed Harris also gives an excellent performance as the movie also takes you deep into their South Boston culture and upbringing which is something you got a taste of in Good Will Hunting and The Departed, but nothing like this! I love the fact that just when you think the movie is over, another twist surfaces which opens up a whole new chapter. If you're a big suspense and drama fan, this is a must see! Kudos to the Affleck brothers!