What Doesn't Kill You

A 2008 American crime drama directed by Brian Goodman, based on his own life experiences with the Irish Mob in South Boston. The film follows childhood friends Brian Reilly (Mark Ruffalo) and Paulie McDougan (Ethan Hawke), who have been involved in criminal activities from a young age, working for local crime boss Pat Kelly (Brian Goodman). Brian, struggling with drug addiction and trying to maintain his relationship with his wife Stacy (Amanda Peet) and their two sons, seeks to turn his life around. However, his efforts to leave the criminal world are complicated by pressure from Paulie, who is planning a major heist. The film delves into themes of friendship, betrayal, and the struggle for redemption, illustrating how the past influences the present and future of the characters. It premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival in 2008, but due to the bankruptcy of distributor Yari Film Group, it received a limited release in December of the same year.