In "Mystic River," a steadfast belief in determinism rules every moment. A crime seen in the opening sequence will affect, if not infect, every action and response for the rest of the movie. Clint Eastwood, a man who likes to challenge himself more than he is given credit for when he turns to directing, is clearly fascinated by this idea and explores its ramifications in a crisp, well-made, visually astute film that will provoke and divide his admirers.

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