Watch Tenderness

Tenderness is a psychological thriller from 2009, directed by John Polson and starring Russell Crowe, Jon Foster, and Sophie Traub. The film is based on the novel of the same name by Robert Cormier and follows the story of a disturbed teenager named Eric Poole, who is released from juvenile detention after serving time for murdering his parents.

Russell Crowe plays Lieutenant Cristofuoro, a veteran detective who becomes obsessed with Poole's case and believes that the teenager is a danger to society. As Poole tries to adjust to life outside of prison, he meets Lori (Sophie Traub), a troubled young girl with a tragic past. The two form an unlikely bond, and Poole must confront his own demons as he tries to protect Lori from the dangers of the outside world.

The movie weaves together multiple storylines as Cristofuoro tries to catch Poole before he can hurt anyone else, and Poole tries to outrun his troubled past. Along the way, they encounter a series of characters who help to shed light on their complex personalities and motivations.

The performances in Tenderness are exceptional, with Russell Crowe delivering a nuanced and multi-faceted portrayal of the troubled detective. Crowe's Cristofuoro is a man haunted by his own past mistakes and driven by an almost obsessive desire to protect others from harm. Jon Foster brings a quiet intensity to his role as Eric Poole, conveying the character's inner turmoil and struggle to find redemption in a world that has already cast him out.

Sophie Traub is also outstanding as Lori, a character who starts off as vulnerable and innocent but gradually reveals a darker side as the story unfolds. Traub's performance is subtle and understated, adding depth and complexity to what could have been a one-dimensional character.

The film is set against the backdrop of a gritty and unforgiving New York City, with the city's streets and buildings serving as a constant reminder of the danger that lurks around every corner. The cinematography is superb, with Polson using a mix of handheld and static shots to create a sense of urgency and tension throughout the film.

One of the strengths of Tenderness is its exploration of the psychology of violence and how it affects individuals and society as a whole. The film raises important questions about the root causes of violence, and whether it is possible for individuals to overcome their traumatic pasts and live normal lives.

Overall, Tenderness is a gripping and thought-provoking thriller that explores the darker corners of the human psyche. With exceptional performances, a well-crafted screenplay, and top-notch direction, it is a standout film that will leave audiences questioning their own assumptions about crime, punishment, and redemption.

Tenderness is a 2007 crime movie with a runtime of 1 hour and 41 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 5.4.