We Own the Night is a gripping tale of two brothers. Joaquin Phoenix portrays Bobby Green, the New York nightclub manager who is heading in the wrong direction. His brother, Joseph Grusinsky, portrayed by Mark Wahlberg, has just joined the New York police squad. Grusinsky is not the only name in the field, as their father Burt (Robert Duvall) is Chief of police. After becoming a detective, Joseph begins investigating a Russian drug lord, who just happens to be hanging out in his brother’s club. Joseph warns Bobby of the criminal and tells him he will do what it takes to bring him in to custody, and it is not a light threat. Days later Joseph and his fellow officers raid Bobby’s club and find many unlawful activities, one including his own brother.

Regrettably there is not enough evidence to arrest Vadim Nezhinski (Alex Veadov), the suspected drug lord. Bobby feeling betrayed by his brother decides to cut ties with him. That is until a few days later there is an accident, one that will turn this story completely around. Following the accident Bobby learns his family is being hunted by the Russian mafia to be “taken care of”. Little does the mafia know that Bobby Green is actually a Grusinsky. Bobby decides it is time to step up the plate and do what it takes to protect his family, but is he too late?

This movie is spellbinding and I found myself captivated throughout. There was chemistry between the Grusinsky clan that played out very well on the big screen. It is a dark and gripping thriller starring some of the best. Joaquin has a stand out performance, being enticed by his every word and action. I felt every emotion Bobby felt in this film and it takes a lot for an actor to get that across on film. The music was precise for the decade and very enjoyable. A true Hollywood thriller, with some of the best action and cinematography this year. Make sure to catch this one. You won’t want to miss Phoenix, Wahlberg and Duvall owning the theatres in this flick.

Review By: Jolene Mendez