I saw the movie Mystic River that was a disappointment for me, but I decided to read the book even if I thought I would probably know the story and ending anyway.
The writing is so powerful that even if the movie recreated the book faithfully, it is well worth the read.
Have you ever read PRINCE OF TIDES by PAT CONROY? If not I highly recommend it. One of the best books I have EVER read ... if you don't agree I will cover cost of paperback.