The drama, romance and mystery packed into “The Town,” written and directed by Ben Affleck, offer a little something for everyone.

The movie is centered in Charlestown, Mass., an area of Boston notorious for its overwhelming number of thieves and robberies. In this neighborhood, theft is simply a family trade passed down from one generation to the next.

Affleck, who plays Doug MacRay, finds himself caught between his criminal past, handed down to him by his father, and the life he truly longs for. After MacRay and his three friends and accomplices rob a city bank, he is responsible for keeping watch of the whereabouts of their former hostage, Claire Keesey, played by Rebecca Hall.

As the movie unfolds, an unexpected and undercover romance develops between MacRay and Keesey, putting MacRay in a tight spot. Do his loyalties rest with his childhood friends and partners in crime, or will he seize the chance to wipe his slate clean with Keesey to live the life for whichhe yearns?

As “The Town” progresses, viewers get a deeper glimpse into MacRay’s life. With his father in jail, his mother out of the picture and MacRay’s shot at professional hockey long gone, viewers can’t help but develop a soft spot for this

kind-hearted criminal.

MacRay’s decision to leave Charlestown will be viewed as betrayal by his friends, yet his decision to remain in the district could leave him in trouble, especially with the FBI hot on his heels.

Though the movie lasts two hours, several intense action scenes and the developing relationship between a criminal and his former hostage keep the audience intrigued.

“The Town” is an absolute must-see, leaving viewers with a sense of satisfaction and a newfound appreciation for Affleck as both an actor and director.