A History of Violence

THE GIST: A mild-mannered family man's act of self-defense against two thugs results in him being hailed a hero by his small community. The news go nationwide and soon some strangers show up, looking for him, but they refer to him by a different name. He rebuffs them, but something doesn't add up, and his wife grows suspicious.

Directed by David Cronenberg, A History of Violence is a thriller with a hefty dose of violence and action, but also a cool mystery at its center. Not surprisingly, it received a Best Screenplay Oscar nomination.

Viggo Mortensen brings his raw talent to the main character, and is excellent. Ed Harris, and William Hurt are also great, with the latter receiving a Best Supporting Actor Oscar nomination.

THE BOTTOM LINE: Not for the squeamish I guess, but this is definitely a good movie.

Grade: 7.5