Afflecks Nuture "Baby"

Co-written and directed by Ben Affleck, "Gone Baby Gone" is a gripping crime thriller that artistically surpasses anything he has done since "Dogma."

A Dorchester family in search of a missing girl hires private investigator Patrick Kenzie (Casey Affleck) after local authorities have their hands full with the investigation and the media circus surrounding it. While this is the simple veneer of the storyline, Affleck and co-writers Aaron Stockard and Dennis Lehane comment on Catholic guilt, preconceived notions of right and wrong, repeated mistakes, and false redemption.

The subject matter is heavy but the film is refreshing in that Affleck and Stockard are able to deliver their messages without crushing the soapbox they're standing on.

One might be tempted to frown on the casting nepotism, but the younger Affleck is perfect as the lead. Instead of playing his character as a gun toting, stop for nothing, succeed at all costs, private investigator stereotype; Affleck plays the part with self- awareness and doubt.

It adds considerable depth to his role while prompting the audience to think about its own ethics. This is what makes the film compelling.

While Affleck's performance is noteworthy, Ed Harris steals the show, giving an unhinged, nomination-worthy performance as jilted vigilante cop Remy Bressant.

Morgan Freeman and Michelle Monaghan also star; it may not be Freeman's finest performance, it's still however exceptional. Monaghan does attempt to step away from her "Girl Next Door" image she's known for, but she will need larger dramatic roles to show her acting ability.

Affleck as a director is not exactly reinventing the wheel. With a compelling story and inspired acting he doesn't need to. Understanding that he doesn't need millions of jump cuts to make scenes work, Affleck employs two shots to show the disparity of emotion and ethics that plagues each character. The camera's eye is so brutal it makes the viewer want to flinch.

Credit should also be given for the authenticity of the slang and the surroundings of the film. It's this setting that Affleck uses to convey not only how tragic the story is, but how common it is for drugs and crime to completely take over a city and its residents.

"Gone Baby Gone" is a solid film equal in action and analysis. It fits in a variety of genres that viewers can appreciate and should be remembered for its strong story and acting come award season.