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It's a tough line to walk, especially when Kenzie finds he's alone on an island with his moral code. He's haunted by unsolved crimes—even when others tell him to just move on. He's tormented by regret and shame for an impulsive and sinful decision—but is lauded for it by those around him. And when the film's big moral dilemma stares Kenzie in the face, his gut is to go in a direction no other character seems to advocate. But would we? What is the right answer? Is there a "right answer?"

Director Ben Affleck on the set with younger brother Casey

With the meaty story, the Brothers Affleck can't go wrong. And they excel. Big Brother Affleck directs this technically superb film with confidence, passion and daring. Little Brother Affleck is one of the most talented young actors at work. Between this and The Assassination of Jesse James by the Coward Robert Ford, the younger Affleck surely has award nominations coming at the end of the year. In both films, he subtlety and quietly allows the deep insides and motivations of his characters to float to the surface. That his acting stands out among the-always-amazing vets Harris and Freeman is praise indeed.

By marrying a well-told, gripping and intense thriller with bigger issues and a three-dimensional lead, Gone Baby Gone isn't only hard-hitting and thrilling, it's also meaningful, emotional and resonating. There are scenes so frenetic and tense—because of both Ben's powerful vision and our affection for Kenzie—they feel like a horror movie. Others are quiet and still—like a man sitting on the couch—but yet are almost even more gripping because all of the action occurring on the inside.

Talk About It

1. The movie's climax rests on a huge moral decision Patrick has to make. To you, why did he make the choice he did? What experiences, beliefs, and convictions do you think impacted/influenced him in that direction?
2. In that same situation, what would you have done? Why? Have you ever had to make a similar choice?
3. Is it ever OK to break laws to uphold them? Or commit evil to stop evil? What about taking an innocent life to save more innocent lives? Read 3 John 1:11, 1 Peter 3:17, Hebrews 5:14 and 1 Thessalonians 5:22. What is God's perspective on the end justifying the means?
4. What do you think Patrick is thinking in the final scene? What does that scene communicate to you? How do you think Patrick's choice will change him?
5. Do those who commit violent crimes forfeit their right to justice? Ed Harris' character argues that those who mess with children deserve to die; what's your response?

The Family Corner

Gone Baby Gone is rated R for violence, drug content and pervasive language. Profanity, especially f-words, is nearly constant. Coupled with graphic gun violence, on-screen drug use, and grizzly issues such as murder, child sexual abuse, and kidnapping, it's a tough movie to watch, but addresses some moral issues and dilemmas worth wrestling with. But use discernment and caution. Take the rating seriously.

Photos © Copyright Miramax

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