You would think the names Ryan Gosling and Bradley Cooper would be enough to grab any moviegoer’s attention, but combine that with epic car chases, bank robberies and guns, and you have an enthralling must-see drama. The Place Beyond The Pines, the third film of Derek Cianfrance, unwraps and explores the relationships between two unconnected families whose paths cross through a series of ill-fated events. Teaming up with Gosling (Blue Valentine) once again, Cianfrance produces a riveting movie of three tales, which unfolds over 17 years.

The first act centers on heavily tattooed motorbike stunts man Luke Glatton, played by Gosling. His life is transformed when he discovers he is the father of a 6-month-old boy named Jason, the son of Romina (Eva Mendes), with whom he had a brief fling. In order to stay in his son’s life and provide for his young family Luke gives up his nomadic lifestyle. Teaming up with Robin (Ben Mendelsohn), a rough, drift away repairman, the pair exploit Luke’s riding skills to rob banks. Now obviously a great bank robbery is incomplete without a grand car chase, but unfortunately for Glatton it ends badly, following a botched attempt that leaves him cornered. Gosling provides a strong performance, fearless and unwavering throughout, redeeming himself in the viewer’s eyes. The emotionally charged first hour ends in a cruel and abrupt fashion, setting the tone for the remainder of the film.

Enter the fray Avery Cross (Bradley Cooper), the first officer on scene. The second card follows the life of officer Cross, following his assignment to Glatton’s case. Cooper undoubtedly gives one of the best performances of his career. Accepting accolades that come his way, he secretly struggles to find meaning in his work and home life. Cross’ police force is littered with corruption, abusing their authority. Unable to make a mends, he rats out his force in a deal that sees him become assistant district attorney. But just as his life seems to be back on track, the ghosts of his past come back to haunt him.

The final card played occurs after a substantial amount of time with Cianfrance ambitiously throwing in a time lapse of 15 years. It sees the lives of Jason and AJ, the sons of Glatton and Cross respectively, intertwine. Cross, too self-orientated as he vies to become New York’s attorney general, neglects his son at his own peril. Attending the same high school, AJ and Jason befriend one another, leading them down a spiraling path of parties, drugs and violence and throwing their lives into disarray. When Cross learns of the pair’s acquaintance, he threatens his son and warns him to keep away from Jason. Struggling with his own identity, Jason turns to his mother in search of answers. He distances himself as Romina battles to deny him the facts. Eventually he finds the answers that he’s been seeking and when he learns of Cross’ involvement with his father, things take a turn for the worse. The movie hits a final emotional and suspenseful climax that will leave you on the edge of your seats before drawing to a close.

With fantastic performances all-round, The Place Beyond the Pines is a cinematic masterpiece; a compelling melodrama about responsibility, loss and guilt, filled with rife anticipation and raw drama that’s not to be missed.

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