I went to see The Departed on Friday evening. It was really excellent. I agree with most of Matt Yglesias’s review; unlike many, I enjoyed Jack Nicholson’s hamminess, and I thought the final scene was perfectly plausible (at least, as plausible as anything else in the movie). The final shot (of the rat against the statehouse) was maybe a bit much.
I couldn’t figure out why I didn’t recognize the police shrink, since all the rest of the characters were very well-known actors. Turns out she is relatively new; great performance from her. The scenes where Matt Damon is wooing her are some of the most delightful parts of the movie.
Finally, I really appreciate movies that can manipulate my emotions without making me groan afterwards. This one has portions that honestly are sad or hilarious; not too much blatant manipulation.
Definitely recommended.