Meticulously observed and devastatingly well-acted, actor Todd Field's feature directing debut chronicles the descent into extraordinary darkness of an ordinary couple whose family life is shattered by sudden violence. Based on the short story "Killings" by the late Andre Dubus, the film's metaphorical title alludes to the part of a lobster trap that holds the flailing crustaceans fast. Matt (Tom Wilkinson) and Ruth (Sissy Spacek) appear to be gliding smoothly through middle-age: He's a respected local doctor, she teaches high school music and their marriage is a felicitous blend of mutual comfort and still-vital passion. They own a lovely home in a small town on the...
Released:
2001
Rated:
R
Length:
131 mins