Gone Baby Gone

Ben Affleck makes an auspicious directorial debut with this uncompromising thriller based on a novel by author Dennis Lehane (Mystic River). Set in one of Boston's toughest working-class neighborhoods, Gone Baby Gone follows the efforts of private detectives Patrick Kenzie (Casey Affleck) and Angie Gennaro (Michelle Monaghan) to locate a four-year-old girl who's gone missing. But what starts out as a routine case turns into something considerably deeper and darker, and Kenzie finds himself in danger when the investigation uncovers disturbing truths. Baby-faced Casey, an odd choice for the role, acquits himself handily, and Monaghan shows more gumption than in previous roles, but the acting honors here go to Morgan Freeman and Ed Harris, who play cops with questionable motives. The great Boston locations enhance the storytelling, and Ben's direction is sure-handed and straightforward, although it falters a bit during a credulity-straining denouement. Recommended. [Note: DVD extras include an audio commentary (by director Ben Affleck and writer Aaron Stockard), six deleted scenes—including an extended ending—with optional commentary (17 min.), a nine-minute “Capturing Authenticity” casting featurette, a seven-minute “Going Home” behind-the-scenes featurette, and trailers. Bottom line: a fine extras package for a solid thriller.] (E. Hulse)