My summary is a best title than « reservation road » because at first i thought it was about natives Americans ! Next, visually, the movie is ugly, filmed in the usual orange / blue colors of today movies. Next, the story could have been interesting and original if it was really about hazards of life: But Phoenix as the grief dad is frankly bad : too much angry even with his family, too much retired,… To compare,the feelings of this tragedy were more movingly shown in « lovely bones ». Ruffalo is at least much better as the remorse running man as he really shows what means to be culprit ! At last and sadly, Jennifer is totally transparent : sure she isn't the focus of the story but she doesn't bring something memorable too… So for me, it's a failed movie and it's not a surprise considering the constant inability of Americans movie to tell life just as it is !

Terry George has already established a name for himself as a writer and director. His previous directorial venture, 'Hotel Rwanda' tells the poignant story of Paul Rusesabagina's courageous attempt to rescue thousands of Rwandans during a genocide that was largely ignored by the world. With 'Reservation Road' he tells a harrowing story of one of the worst kinds of losses experienced by humans (especially parents) the loss of a child.John Burnham Schwartz adapts his own novel and his screenplay is rich in detail, story and character development. George doesn't only touch on the issue of grief but also on anger, obsession, revenge, guilt and taking responsibility that result from such severe loss. The tension he builds through atmosphere and interaction of actors, the poetic flow, stunning cinematography and soundtrack all come together beautifully. In addition the viewer is kept in suspense.The emotions and reactions displayed by the performers are very raw and appear very natural. All the actors do nothing short of superb, even though the film mainly belongs to Mark Ruffalo and Joaquin Phoenix (both are exceptional as they deliver one of the best of their careers). Jennifer Connelly is remarkable and Elle Fanning is brilliant. Mira Sorvino provides adequate support in a small role.Emotionally engaging, engrossing and layered, 'Reservation Road' successfully involves the viewer and lingers in mind long after the closing credits have rolled. It's a shame that the film was poorly marketed (even with a huge starcast) and got overlooked by people.

Joaquin Phoenix,and Mark Ruffalo shines in this sad drama,sometimes they just too strong,it's their movie,screenplay writers wanted something more,but that is not enough strong to be enough memorable when these two fantastic actors are on the screen,but the movie has it's own message.Jennifer Connelly,and Mira Sorvino are not enough memorable in this,unfortunately the two main male characters pushed them to the invisible zone,I mean If I don't see the movies main page before I send this comment,I will not remember them.7/10-one of the better social-family dramas I've seen in this year.

This was a very good drama with a good plot. We all have families that would be devastated with the loss of a loved one. We would all handle it differently and this movie shares one such avenue for justice we would seek. The scenes were set in the northeast and were all very well done. The actor/actresses did a real good job with their characters. I especially liked the dialogue between Joaquin Phoenix and Jennifer Connelly. One part was quite predictable but did not ruin the story. I found it quite interesting and entertaining. The end was not what I would have done and some viewers may have a similar comment. But overall was an entertaining movie worth 2 hours of your time.