Gone Baby Gone

To see Ben Affleck's brilliant but disturbing story of child abduction, Gone Baby Gone, last night. Affleck's directorial debut sees two Boston detectives - played with real feeling by his brother Casey Affleck and Michelle Monaghan - getting more than they bargained for when they try to help a family recover a missing toddler. Along the way, they encounter their share of ethical dilemmas. Its UK release was delayed because of supposed echoes with the Madeleine McCann disappearance. But as a film, it was worth the wait. Dennis Lehane's story has plenty of gripping plot twists. There are great supporting performances by Ed Harris and Morgan Freeman. And the movie itself demonstrates a sureness of touch in Affleck's direction which suggests that he should stay on this side of the camera in future.