Robert DeNiro is back, starring in the new crime drama “City by the Sea.” This film was inspired by a true story from a 1997 Esquire article “Mark of a Murderer,” by Mike McAlary. This movie was written, produced and directed by Michael Caton-Jones, who also directed the 1997 crime thriller “The Jackal.” DeNiro plays New York City police detective Lt. Vincent LaMarca. LaMarca is investigating the murder of a drug dealer whose residence is in Long Beach, the self-proclaimed “City by the Sea.” The prime suspect in this murder is Joey, played by James Franco, who is LaMarca’s estranged son. La Marca feels guilty about abandoning his son many years before, failing to be a father and how his short-comings have shaped who his son has become. He is torn because he wants to help his son, but he cannot defy his oath as a police officer.

LaMarca is also forced to confront his past as the son of an executed murderer. This movie portrays a troubled family with a difficult past. It displays second chances and asks the question, Will history repeat itself?

LaMarca has only a couple of close relationships. His girlfriend, Michelle, is played by Oscar-winning actress Frances McDormand, delivers a good performance. She wants more from the relationship than LaMarca is willing to give her, but he is unable to commit to her.

His partner, Reggie Duffy, is played by George Dzunda. In addition to being his partner, he is LaMarca’s only close friend.

Early in the movie there is an unusual, unmistakable, obvious shot of the World Trade Centers’ Twin Towers. This is odd since other movies with shots of the towers cut them out after the attacks of Sept. 11. This movie is okay at best. The story is well told but is sometimes dull and slow moving. To be perfectly honest, I have seen better, but it is still worth a look. However, if I were you, I would wait until the movie is showing at a discount theater or rent it when it comes out on video.