Very rarely (actually it never happened before) do I walk out of a movie theater and say "That was the best movie I've ever seen". Thats a huge statement and one that should not be thrown out there all of the time if one expects to have any sense of credibility.

However, I found myself saying that exact statement when I left the theater of The Departed on its opening night. I have now seen the movie 4 times and can honestly say that it is the best movie I've ever seen.

Martin Scorsese is far and away the greatest living director today. Its downright blasphomous that he hasn't won an Oscar yet, but The Departed is more than worthy of earning him his first statue. With films like Goodfellas, Raging Bull, Taxi Driver, Casino, Gangs of New York...how can you not like a director with that resume? He's a cinematic genius.

What impressed me most was Leonardo DiCaprio. He was more than believable as a street thug, tough guy, criminal/undercover cop. Definitely my favorite character in the film.

Matt Damon is also superb in this movie. Great performance on his part, he helps never let the film get boring. Obviously, having Jack Nicholson in the movie can't hurt either. He is fantastic as the crazy mob boss, Frank Costello.

The Departed has it all: amazing plot, great soundtrack, incredible performances from the entire cast. I love this movie and cannot wait to own it on DVD.

Greatest movie ever.