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A wonderfully made film, the subject matter not so much. You really feel a sense of empathy and remorse for both Tobias 'Jack' Wolff, and his Mother all throughout this film; even during the opening scene from Jack's VoiceOver which details why they're moving. Unlike myself about a year ago, if you read the plot before actually watching this movie it'll be quite predictable once we, as the audience, are introduced to Dwight Hansen. But if you don't, only about a quarter into the film your prediction of the ending will become pretty clear, if not accurate.
The acting as well! Man, it was amazing and I'm sure I'd rate this film much lower if the actors who didn't play the antagonists weren't casted. Robert De Niro was brilliant as always, I can tell he put some study into the man he was portraying and I damm hope he was proud of it. As soon as I got to see who Dwight Hansen truly was, I fully loathed the self-centred, bullying jerk he is and couldn't wait to see Caroline and Jack be avenged, and karma coming for him. I don't think I've ever been as angry with someone's attitude as I've had with Dwight's so this is an emotion truly only either De Niro and Al Pacino can make me feel. Leonardo DiCaprio was exceptional in this film as well. You see, unlike many of his fellow heartthrobs of the mid to late 90s DiCaprio could actually play his given role pretty damm well, and this fortunately was one of them. Even the actors of Caroline and Dwight's children were realistic in their performances, and for a film based on a true story this element was strongly needed.
Overall, I enjoyed This Boy's Life. I wouldn't call it a masterpiece but it is a raw, underrated film that showcases domestic and mental abuse quite realistically. Definitely one I'd recommend, unless you want a light-watch (for me it was, but for the several people I've watched it with stated they found it to be the opposite and the subject themes heavy.).
