What Doesn't Kill You (2008)

Film Overview
"What Doesn't Kill You" is a 2008 American criminal activity film, directed by Brian Goodman and co-written with Paul T. Murray and Donnie Wahlberg. The movie stars Mark Ruffalo, Ethan Hawke, and Goodman himself. The film follows the lives of 2 childhood pals from South Boston turned wrongdoers, who battle with their individualities and relationships under the world of organized crime.

Plot Summary
The film is largely based upon the real-life experiences of the director, Brian Goodman. The story focuses on 2 long-lasting pals and bad guys, Paulie (Ethan Hawke) and Brian (Mark Ruffalo), who matured together in South Boston and are now deeply knotted in their criminal lifestyles. Brian does not get to spend adequate time with his partner and two sons due to his criminal activities.

The friends work for local crime employer Pat Kelly (Brian Goodman), who holds sway over the community. They get involved in various criminal activities, from robberies to trafficking, to pay their dues and safeguard their beneficial interests in the underworld. However, with time, their alliance is tested, specifically when they get apprehended.

Tension and Conflict
The real drama unfolds when the duo gets detained after a job and Paulie, declining a plea offer, ends up in prison while Brian strolls free due to a lack of evidence. Brian, now needing to fend for himself and his household, and being indebted to Pat, falls even deeper into the criminal world, ending up being more remote from his other half (Amanda Peet) and children.

Realizing he's on a self-destructive path, Brian makes a commitment to disentangle himself from the cycle of criminal offense. When Paulie is released, he is distressed to learn that Brian is trying to leave the life of criminal offense behind. This triggers a rift in between the longtime buddies.

Resolution
In the end, "What Doesn't Kill You" sees the characters facing their choices. Brian, after taking a harmful but possibly life-changing job, recognizes the cost he's spending for the options he made is too high, and comes tidy to his wife about his decision to leave his life of crime. Meanwhile, Paulie stays devoted to his criminal life.

Conclusion
"What Doesn't Kill You", presents a gritty, raw depiction of the criminal life in South Boston, diving deep into the crisis of identity, friendships, and family relationships that its lead characters deal with. The movie efficiently showcases the battle of its characters trying to survive a life of criminal activity and the repercussions of their choices on their individual lives. Sense of redemption explored in the film underscores the idea that it's never ever too late to turn your life around. The motion picture likewise highlights the strength of human strength, as depicted with the expression "What Doesn't Kill You". Through principles and household worths, Brian handles to get out of his criminal life, proving the saying real.

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