everything you have heard about this movie is true.

It's funny, it's tense, it features two great performances from two actors and the director expertly creates a web of odd tension where you actually don't know what is happening for the majority of the run time.

Blistering performances.

The acting in this movie is really good.

I liked this more than I expected to. It's a story that's been told many times before but the great performances from Ethan Hawke and especially Mark Ruffalo -whose struggle going straight (and clean) both really captured me.It's the story of two childhood friends from South Boston who graduate from a life of petty crime to working for a local organized crime boss and then after a stint in jail try to go straight. I liked how this was filmed to appear gritty and cold all the time, really adding to the mood.My only real problem would have to be the ending which could have been better. At first I was confused by 'Brian's' view of what could happen, thinking it did happen, and then after everything all we get is a written epilogue as to the fate of Paulie, what a wasted opportunity that was. I wanted to see how "that" played out, not just get a by-the-way.This story also wouldn't be complete without a Wahlberg (they seem to be in all things Boston) and here Donnie plays a detective. 10/13

why does IMDb require 10 lines, are they insane or just control freaks?All I have to say about this movie is WATCH IT. You will not be disappointed. It is a great film about a "class" or "group" of people, could be just about any group, Irish, Mexican, Italian, Puerto Rican, Iranian, Polish, Cuban... who live in a small community and have limited opportunities because of education and upbringing... not that everyone in such a situation will end up like these guys but this story is being played out day after day in each of America's ethnic communities. Bravo to the actors and director.MORE LINES ARE NEEDED SO....this story is being played out day after day in each of America's ethnic communities. Bravo to the actors and director.

This powerful true story is brought to life with great directing and the amazing acting of both Mark Ruffalo and Ethan Hawke. Everything in this film screams "real". Realism is the key as the film captures the story of two men trying to live their life with the 'cards they've been dealt'.Brian's life is not uncommon. There are countless men (and women) that have grown up not knowing any way of getting by in life without living a life of hustling and grinding.This film captured me from the get go. Showing realism in its characters and making you understand their actions even if you can't condone them. The fact that it's all a true story simply enhances the impact of the story.

this is a very well done film in all aspects.the look of the film,the tone,the acting.it's based on a true story,but how much is true and how much has been tweaked for dramatic purposes is anyone's guess.regardless,it's a good film.Ethan Hake and Mark Ruffalo play two lifelong friends who grow up on the tough streets of Boston and turn to petty crime early on.eventually things spiral out of control,and one of of the friends is faced with a moral dilemma and makes a hard choice.there have been a few films set in Boston,The Departed(which i loved)being one,and Gone,Baby Gone,which was disappointing.Boston certainly has a unique look to it,which lends itself to these types of movies.both Hawke and Ruffalo are great as is Amanda Peet.for me,What Doesn't Kill you is a solid 8/10