I'll start with the good since the list is pretty short... the acting by Gylenhall, Jackman, Howard, and supporting cast is top notch. They did a great job making this movie feel real. But that is where I have a problem with this film. It is a little too real, too gory, and too twisted for me to like. There are many scenes in vivid detail where people are being beaten and tortured; the director does not suggest these details in any subtle way whatsoever. And the fact that the whole premise revolves around the kidnapping, drugging, and harming children just makes it unbearable. Maybe some people appreciate the realness, I typically am one of those people, but this was a little too far for me.