There are many wonderful moments in this movie, and the acting talent on display is stunning, but, unfortunately, the movie is ultimately unsatisfying, because the story just doesn't jell.
This film showcases some of Jack Nicholson's best work of recent years; he's really playing a character here, not just a knockoff caricature. Vanessa Redgrave is terrific as the grandmother of Little Ginny, the murdered girl. Robin Wright's performance is workmanlike, but very good. Even small parts, such as those played by Benicio Del Torres and Mickey Rourke are nuanced and riveting.
It is too bad when a movie with so many strong elements just fails to be a mesmerizing whole.
This film showcases some of Jack Nicholson's best work of recent years; he's really playing a character here, not just a knockoff caricature. Vanessa Redgrave is terrific as the grandmother of Little Ginny, the murdered girl. Robin Wright's performance is workmanlike, but very good. Even small parts, such as those played by Benicio Del Torres and Mickey Rourke are nuanced and riveting.
It is too bad when a movie with so many strong elements just fails to be a mesmerizing whole.