A History of Violence

"A History of Violence" reminds me a lot of the critically acclaimed 2001 movie, "In the Bedroom". Both feature powerful, riveting performances from every actor, and both revolve around modern day people whose lives are impacted by shocking acts of violence. Plus, neither one is a feel-good movie.

Viggo Mortensen stars as Tom Stall, the owner of a local diner in a very small town in Indiana. He and his family's peaceful lives are interrupted when Tom kills two would-be murderers trying to rob the diner. Tom becomes an instant celebrity. On the downside though, he is recognized by Philadelphia mobsters as someone they believe they know from their past. The head mobster, Fogarty (Ed Harris), believes that Tom is actually Joey Cusack, the man who tried to rip Fogarty's eye out with barbed wire and who had done unspeakable violence to others on behalf of his mobster brother Richie (William Hurt).

Initially, nobody, especially Tom's wife Edie (Maria Bello), believe the story. Tom also sticks to his story. Then, after Fogarty threatens to hurt their son (Ashton Holmes), Tom again displays an incredible adeptness at killing people. The violence here is quite graphic and unflinching. Now Edie is starting to wonder exactly who's telling the truth.

Mortensen (Aragorn from "Lord of the Rings") is brilliant with his performance, which is only bolstered by Bello's Oscar-worthy turn. The relationship within the Stall family is incredibly believable, making their pain and confusion only more powerful. Just as unexpected as the violence was, the ironic humor throughout the film was equally surprising. Director David Croneberg avoids a sappy ending, but leaves you with a less-than-conclusive closing scene. I don't know that any other way would have worked better. I give it an A.

"A History of Violence" is rated R with a running time of 96 minutes.