alpha dog

there's no time to get bored in this captivating based-on-a-true-story movie. I knew I had to see it (and drove out to the suburbs, alone, to do so) when I read that the real-life subject of the movie, Jesse James Hollywood, was suing to try to prevent the film's release. it really was that good. Emile Hirsch was brilliant as always, Justin Timberlake pegged a sweet, misguided, teen perfectly, Ben Foster was unbelievable as a manic, criminal older brother - the entire cast seemed incredibly real. I credit Nick Cassavetes for the consistently excellent performances, and the movie's balanced pace. even though it's a true story, I don't want to give too much away - just go see it.