The Butterfly Effect-Rated R

   Let me start by saying that this movie proves that Ashton Kutcher is not just another pretty face. The boy can actually act! I was very impressed by his performance.
   What if you could go back in time and right the wrongs in your life?  How would it affect you and all of those around you? The Butterfly Effect explores this possibility.
   Evan (Ashton Kutcher) has had an extremely difficult childhood. As a child he seemed to cope with the stress by frequently blacking out.  His psychiatrist suggests that he keep journals in an effort to help him remember the events that cause him such stress. 
   As an adult he starts reading the journals, and as he relives the past he realizes that he has the power to change those events that shaped his life and the lives of his friends.  The results are somewhat startling.
   Twice during the movie I told my husband I thought I was going to have to leave.  Some subjects are just too disturbing for me to view, the making of child pornography being one of them.  Another overwhelming scene involved a dog being burned to death.  If you have a sensitive spirit you will probably want to look away during these scenes.
   While it was somewhat difficult getting to the end, I am glad I stayed. The twists and turns in the movie left me thinking for days about all the possible scenarios. It impacted upon me the need to consider everything I do and how easily it can affect those around me. The plot was pretty amazing, but I must warn you that if you choose to see The Butterfly Effect, remember that it is Rated R, and it is packed with violence, sex, and bad language.