What Doesn't Kill You 2008

Everyone has a choice. Every choice has a consequence.

6.0 / 10   182 vote(s)
R
Action Crime Drama

Two childhood friends from South Boston turn to crime as a way to get by, ultimately causing a strain in their personal lives and their friendship.

Homepage http://www.whatdoesntkillyoumovie.com/
Release Date 2008-12-12
Runtime 1h 40m
Directors Brian Goodman, Christopher Norr
Producers Marc Frydman, William J. Immerman, Rod Lurie, Peter R. McIntosh, Bob Yari, Tim Jacobsen
Writers Paul T. Murray, Donnie Wahlberg, Brian Goodman

I am a sucker for these gritty, crime-filled dramas I must admit. 'What Doesn’t Kill You' gives me strong vibes of 2014's 'The Drop' and 2010's 'The Town', it's miles better than that awful former but not quite on the high level of the latter.

This is very nicely acted, with Ethan Hawke (Paulie), Mark Ruffalo (Brian) and Amanda Peet (Stacy) all delivering goodness in their roles - Ruffalo being the standout, he really shows off the plight of his character brilliantly. Hawke and Peet support astutely.

I love the music by Alex Wurman, it fits everything that's going on perfectly. The other stuff, like dialogue and cinematography, is all shipshape. As for the premise, it's good - there's certainly enough there to keep you locked in, well there is for me anyway.

Strong cast, an extremely watchable plot alongside a nice and light run time. I'd definitely recommend.

r96sk