Blood Ties reminds me somewhat of the 2007 film, "We Own the Night." Despite similar themes and a similar plot, I felt connected more to this story. Maybe it was because of the character-driven plot and the excellent lines of dialogue, but this movie is a solid piece of art exploring themes of brotherhood....but from opposite sides of the law. The movie isn't flawless, but it's one movie people should check out. Guillaume Canet's English-speaking film debut is about a man named Chris, who was just released from prison after serving 12 years for murder. He is picked up by his younger brother Frank, who serves as a cop. Chris tries to live life as a regular man, but once he rejoins his crime life, Frank must decide which life is better: his brother's or his as a cop. For a limited release, the film has an excellent cast. I thought everyone did a solid job, though one could deny this film is their best works. Clive Owen, as always, delivers a good performance as the crime- happy Chris. Billy Crudup does the same as his younger brother. James Caan delivered a tasty role as the father of the two men. I particularly liked Marion Cotillard's haunting, sexy performance as Chris's ex-wife, Monica. Finally, Mila Kunis did a decent job as Chris's new lover, Natalie. Overall, Blood Ties is a great crime film that fits extremely well in its 1970's setting. I loved the soundtrack of the film, which added to the groove of the movie. It felt like this film was made in 1975, and that is an added bonus. If you expect an action/gangster film, look elsewhere because this a film focused on the characters. However, that ending was a very strong ending, better than I expected it to be. My Grade: A-

One of the toughest things is to feel sympathy for a criminal, even if played by Clive Owen. Still there is more to him than just violence and breaking the law. And there is always the "how it all began". The family ties that are mentioned in the title are strong, but are not helping always. The casting of good actors is helping the movie though. James Caan is always a joy.One thing that surprised me was the fact that the movie tells you it is not based on a real story. I guess the way it is made, you could be excused to think this could have happened (or something similar to this) ... and maybe it did. Whatever the case, this is not an instant classic, but it's still more than a decent movie. The setting is good, the script works and there is a nice flow to it

Review:  I really had high hopes for this movie, after seeing the adverts, but it took ages for something to happen. It just seemed to drag after a while, but I did like the ending, which was predictable but well put together. It reminded me of the last scene in Carlito's Way, but no way as good. Anyway, the director had all the right tools to make a good movie, but he failed by making an average film which as predictable from start to finish. I didn't understand why the criminalised brother, decided to rob a truck in the same place were his brother is a cop. Wouldn't it have been easier if he committed his crimes in another state? Anyway, there isn't that much action throughout the movie and the drama wasn't that intense. I liked Clive Owens character, who was a cocky ex-con who gets drawn back into the game after finding it hard to adapt to normal life, but the rest of the characters were quite boring and uninteresting. On the whole, it didn't have to be over 2 hours long and it could have done with some action or a twist in the storyline. Disappointing!Round-Up: Clive Owen has always been taken seriously in Hollywood because he plays a lot of leading roles like in Children Of Men and The Boys Are Back, which I really enjoyed, but his acting style isn't that unique. He lacks screen charisma and I can't see people rushing to the cinema when one his movies get released. Judging by the box office taking, I'm not alone with thinking that this movie wasn't that great, but it's worth a watch if your running out of things movies to put on your rental list.Budget: $25million Worldwide Gross: $2.5million (Flop!)I recommend this movie to people who are into there drama/thriller movies about a ex-con who gets dragged back into criminal life with his brother, a respected cop, on his tale. 4/10

(66%) A very convincing in terms of period detail crime drama featuring a solid cast and a decent character based story that satisfies through its toe- tapping soundtrack. Clive Owen has a truly fine on-screen presence and he's really great in this, and because he and everyone else are also good, along with the few nice bits of gripping and intense action, meaning that the undebatable flaws in the script, and a couple of minor issues here and there don't really matter that much. This will likely get seen by about half as many people than it deserves, but despite that, and for Mr Clive Owen especially, this is worth a very nostalgic trip to the cinema.