Going into this movie, I didn’t know what the story was about, only that it was based on something that really happened. And the more I consider that fact, and the truth behind everything, the sadder I feel. The events unfolding before me last night are not something I'm likely to forget anytime soon. The characters seem strikingly similar to the actual people involved, and all of the actors did a great job frightening me, surprising me, and making me feel more down than any other film I’ve seen recently. That isn't meant to dissuade you from watching it, though; I believe it is essential viewing for anyone concerned about the world around us. The story involves Jake Mazursky, an explosive skinhead who owes a drug dealer named Johnny Truelove a large sum of money. After a fight, Jake retaliates by trashing Johnny's house. Johnny then kidnaps Jake’s 15-year-old brother Zack as revenge. Surprisingly, Zack is okay with this, trusting his brother to get him back. During that time, Zack develops an unlikely friendship with one of Johnny’s associates, Frankie. However, as the fear of serious jail time grows, Johnny and his friends make a decision that sends everything spiraling out of control. Ben Foster plays Jake, and I thought he did an excellent job. Some people have suggested he overacted, but I disagree. He seemed very convincing as a strung-out, aggressive skinhead. Emile Hirsch portrays Johnny Truelove, and his role is quite different from anything he’s done before; he's just as impressive and believable as Ben Foster - equally menacing and intimidating. It almost seems like he isn’t acting at all, but rather someone they pulled off the street and put in front of a camera. The real-life person this character is based on is Jesse James Hollywood, who became the youngest person ever to be on the FBI's 'most wanted' list. Anton Yelchin plays Zack, embodying everything the character needs: youth, naivete, even some charm, and most importantly, a desire for excitement in his life. Justin Timberlake takes on the role of Frankie, and I have to admit he was better than I initially expected. Actually, there wasn’t a single actor or actress who seemed miscast; all roles, big or small, were well played. It's also important to mention the parents: Johnny's father is portrayed by Bruce Willis, whose part, though brief, is crucial. Sharon Stone plays Zack’s mother in a gut-wrenchingly emotional and very effective role. There is one scene at the end where she wears a fat suit, which is so obvious that it’s distracting and takes away from an otherwise excellent and important moment—though that wasn't her fault, of course. What makes Alpha Dog so significant, I think, is that it reflects the times we live in. A time when young people seem to lead lives filled with drugs, guns, and a complete lack of respect for others’ lives. The ease with which some actions are carried out highlights and amplifies the anarchy and disregard that exists within these individuals. It seems like who cares if you beat someone nearly to death or hurt another person just so long as you can protect yourself. Life is dog eat dog, and this film serves as a disturbing reminder of that. I thought we’d progressed beyond the Dark Ages, but apparently not. Aside from the heavy message of the film (which, for once, didn't bother me, but really engaged me), I must also praise its technical aspects. It is very well made and draws you in from the start with a beautifully edited opening scene. Director Nick Cassavetes ('John Q') has crafted the story into a balanced, properly paced whole, seemingly allowing his actors to do what they do best, creating a spontaneous, natural feel. The music is excellent and appropriately used. Alpha Dog is a film you should see at least once if you care about this world and its people. It’s a portrait of frighteningly detached individuals and the shockingly low threshold for unnecessary violence, demonstrating how easy it is for young people to get involved with bad influences simply because they haven't lived enough or lack positive role models. I cannot recommend this film highly enough. It’s intense—but very much worth experiencing.

Source on TMDB