Synopsis: Academy Award® winner Robert De Niro and Oscar® nominee Edward Norton deliver powerful performances as a seasoned corrections official and a scheming inmate whose lives become dangerously intertwined in this “gritty and engrossing thriller” (Steve O’Brien, WCBS-FM). Jack Mabry (De Niro), a parole officer days away from retirement, is asked to review the case of Gerald “Stone” Creeson (Norton), in prison for arson. Now eligible for early release, Stone needs to convince Jack he has reformed, but his attempts to influence the older man’s decision with his wife Lucetta (Milla Jovovich) have profound and unexpected effects on them both. This tale of passion, betrayal and corruption skillfully weaves together the parallel journeys of two men grappling with dark impulses, as the line between lawman and lawbreaker becomes precariously thin.

Review: Edward Norton is famous for playing somewhat seedy roles.  He's done everything from the criminally insane to a skinhead to a scheming master criminal.  Now, we get him as an arsonist, looking for early release.  In typical Norton fashion, you see this squirrely and deceptive presence behind every look as he is always scheming and manipulating those around him.  He basically persuades his wife, portrayed by Milla Jovovich, to sleep with his corrections officer (DeNiro) in order to get him to recommend his early release.  This, of course, all blows up.  Shocker there.

Jovovich also turns in a nice performance.  We're not used to seeing her without a sword or a gun these days, so to see her in plain clothes, no zombies and really acting is a treat.  DeNiro is....well...DeNiro.  He's always DeNiro.  Not a bad thing, but honestly he is so emotionally inaccessible as an actor is hard to believe at times that he gives into carnal desire over his duty.  This is a great film, we highly recommend it.

Interest Range: Drama