The Town (2010) ****

The TownShining in a sub-genre of crime films, Affleck proves yet again he is more skillful in picking and directing projects, than some of his past choices as an actor. The Town is a thriller that is likely to keep you on the edge of your seat for most of its two-hours’ length. Based on a novel by Chuck Hogan and adapted to the screen by Affleck, Peter Craig, and Aaron Stockard, the story revolves around a town supposedly known for its bank robbers. That specific item is not well supported in the film and sort of misses the point, as the story does focus only on one group of robbers. Though not without flaws, Affleck leads a talented group of actors, including Jon Hamm of Mad Men, Jeremy Renner of The Hurt Locker and Rebecca Hall, to mention a few, through engaging action scenes as well as romantic moments. All in all the film has good rhythm and plot, as well as an intelligent delivery. It is gratifying to see Affleck maintaining his place as a talented filmmaker past his previous success of Gone Baby Gone.