Since I first read Dennis Lehane’s “Mystic River” back in 2002, three of my children have celebrated their First Holy Communion. The religious events have been beautiful and festive, but somewhere in the midst of them all, I’ve flashed back to a scene in “Mystic River.” The scene opens with one of the book’s main characters, Jimmy Marcus, at his youngest daughter’s First Communion. Jimmy is sitting in a church pew, worrying about his oldest daughter, Katie. Katie hasn’t shown up for her little sister’s big day and Jimmy’s wondering what could possibly be keeping Katie from attending such an important event. In Jimmy’s heart, he knows it’s got to be something bad.
Ultimately, Jimmy must rely on the help of his childhood friend, Sean Devine, in the aftermath of Katie’s disappearance. Sean is a police detective assigned to Katie’s case. Also entrenched in the story is another childhood friend of Jimmy and Sean, Dave Boyle. The three men are linked not just by memories of their youthful street shenanigans, but by a kidnapping incident which scarred them all. While playing on the street as boys, Dave was abducted by men posing as police officers. Ever since that fateful day, Jimmy, Sean and Dave are rooted in each other’s thoughts. However, it’s not until Katie’s life erupts that the three men are physically thrown together again.
“Mystic River” is firmly on my list of favorite books. The writing is crisp and clean. The emotional stakes are high. The setting is superb. The plot is believable, and the characters, though certainly flawed, are ones for whom I sympathize. Dennis Lehane is a master storyteller and he has the honors and awards to prove it.
Several years ago, a movie was made based on “Mystic River,” but I haven’t seen it. Most people who avoid book-based movies do so because they’re concerned the movie won’t be as good as the book. I’ve avoided the “Mystic River” movie (for which Sean Penn and Tim Robbins both received Oscars), because I’m concerned it will be as good as the book; I don’t know if I’d like all that raw emotion thrown at me through a screen. Besides, after reading the book, I already have scenes from it playing in my mind. Like all great books I’ve read, scenes from “Mystic River” have a way of sneaking into my life, even at First Communions.
Sunday, May 31, 2009
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8 comments:
For the record, Mystic River is one of the best films I've seen in ages.
I have a present for you on my blog. :-)
CHARLIE: I will put it on my too-watch list (and keep the tissue next to the sofa). Thank you!
LITTLE MS J: I can't believe I put you through this! You rock! I'll read and review anything you write!
I saw the movie and I'm a bit embarassed to say that I didn't really notice (or know) that it was based on a book. Sounds like an interesting read, that is if I can't clear off my current to read list.
To add to the credentials for the film, Clint Eastwood directed it. I haven't read the book (yet), but I did think the movie was great.
I'm holding you to it, sister! Man, I felt like such an idiot, but I have a great story, eh?
CRIMOGENIC: OK, now I really, really have to see this movie. And if I were you, I'd slip the book into my too-read list. It's good stuff.
RICK: I didn't know about the Eastwood connection. I can't remember ever having been disappointed by him.
LITTLE MS J: Yep, it's a great story! And now that I think about it, I can't help wondering WHY he was so hesitant about the photo. Maybe he IS a spy?!
I've heard great reviews about the movie Mystic River. I haven't seen nor read Mystic River, but it is definitely on my to read list. Someday I'll get through that stack!
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