Who knew that Ben Affleck — who's long been Mr Tabloid, thanks to his previous romances with Jennifer Garner, J Lo, Gwyneth and others — had it in him to be a great dramatic director? It's almost as surprising as Britney Spears suddenly writing and recording a profound folk album that sounds like Joni Mitchell's.

But that's exactly what Ben has done.

The handsome star has chosen to go behind the camera to direct his younger brother Casey in a gritty crime drama that has already won rave reviews from critics worldwide. Casey and Michelle Monaghan play two romantically-involved detectives who go in search of a kidnapped little girl. They soon uncover things they had never expected — including stunning revelations from those closest to the case...

The great thing about Gone Baby Gone is that it is actually full of puzzles, suspicions and surprises. Just when you think that the mystery is solved, another clue emerges that throws previous theories into the bin. It keeps you guessing right to the very end.

Gone Baby Gone is also boosted by Ben Affleck's decision to use a lot of the local residents of the town where he was shooting to play the small roles. These locals certainly add flavor and authenticity to the drama, which feels very real and alive.