The Town

I waited quite some time with great anticipation to see this film. If any of you have seen the trailer, it gave the appearance to be action packed, studded with an all star cast and equipped with a narrative twist. I couldn't wait to see how it all played out because the trailer definitely leaves you on a hanger. Also, I was anxious to see Ben Affleck back behind the camera. Not only did he direct the movie but he also co-wrote the script so this was definitely a big one for him. Well, The Town delivered on all levels.

The Good: Featuring an enormous cast, numerous overlapping plots, several car chases and shootouts and even a stickup at Fenway Park, The Town delivers big. I can say this is some of the best work Ben Affleck has done. His directing was natural and riveting. It was fast paced both visually as well as in regards to the narrative. I never looked away and was entirely engrossed in the story and gripped to each new interestingly different action sequence.  And he did not stop there. His role as Doug McRay was flawless. His role was so unique in that it was real and honest. And Ben definitely was not alone in this category. The star studded leading cast included Jon Hamm, Rebecca Hall and Jeremy Renner. Jon Hamm looked like a stud as always and Jeremy Renner did what he does best, the dangerous yet light hearted partner in crime. And who knew the fashionista Gossip Girl could act? Blake Lively has made a profound stride for her career as she came out full force as the cracked out mother doubling as a prostitute. That Boston accent and tense sex scene was her in an entirely new light. This drastic change in character role has made me excited for her next career move. And Rebecca Hall was the perfect choice for this female lead. She is relatively unknown, has natural beauty and oozed a naturally sweet demeanor necessary for the role. The chemistry between her and Ben was titillating.  I think what sets this film apart from all the other action movies out right now was the character development. Not only did this movie have visually amazing action sequences but each of the characters were real. You knew who they were and where they came from. Therefore, you were attached and wanted them to succeed. This movie had a heart to it. For instance, the Blake Lively character might have been removed in other films, however, her role showed the real person Ben was and the background his character had. The monologue of Ben as he sat in the garden with Rebecca was beautifully done describing the compassionate person he had inside himself. And they even developed the relationship between Ben and his father. The film felt complete and left me satisfied in every aspect. Not only was it an action drama but it was filled with comedic quirks. As Jeremy Renner is surrounded by the cops and caught with no way out, the police urge him to come out. He comedically responds, "Fuck you." I could truly go on and on.

Go and see it now! You will stay gripped to the screen and riveted to each character. I give this movie and A+.