The thing that impressed me about this film was the way they portrayed David Morse's character as a real person with real pain and remorse. I could literally feel the pain he was trying to accept and deal with.

Again, I concur. 

The human capability to…discover

Empathy through error, sincere

Remorse, catharsis & an

…Act of forgiveness

Just as the next thread points out David Morse’s truthful/effecting performance in The Indian Runner, in this film he mournfully draws the viewer inside in a wholly unassuming way, & even unawares, until you r in there beleaguered and the only way out is through the cemetery. 

Jack Nicholson, in the former, & Viggo Mortensen, in the latter, put in brilliant/inspired performances, absolutely, …but it really was SP’s forethought when casting this gentle giant that made these films for me. 

‘av a good day all, ...vote your conscience….