Where did this film come from?, 14 March 2002
9/10
Author: whiningfilmcritic from Hollywood
Get a couple people together who want to make a film, some who may never have acted before, first time feature screenwriter, first time feature director and you would usually have a recipe for disaster. Not here.
This very dark look at the world of professional pool hustling will captivate you. I grabs you by the throat and just won't let go. Despite some flaws Cepek does a worthy job directing but the real story here is the story. It just won't let you go.
A couple of emerging future powerhouses are hidden in this independent gem. Kaddy who plays Cindy is destined for Hollywood stardom. Vanessa Davis who plays Tanya, a strung out addict that makes money as a dominatrix, and Niemi who plays Rex, a sexually addicted pool hustler, have a scene that rewrites the book on intense. Niemi who also penned the incredible script also shows serious chops as a writer.
This film is as dark as it is captivating and may be too much for many people. Don't look for this film to be at your local theater anytime soon. Most likely will get an Art House run before going to video. Too bad because this film delivers. Incredible bang for the buck with a message and social conscience.
My thumbs are up!, 28 December 2001
10/10
Author: hollyhills
Gritty drama about three hustler, gambler, pool player types who duke it out in real life circumstances and the penalties (known or unknown) that they incur from their behavior. I have to admit the ending is difficult to watch. Many people at the festival I saw this film at broke down and cried and had to leave before the last couple minutes of the film rolled through. Lots of manly men with tears in their eyes that night. An incredible film whether you're into the gambling thing or not. An incredible story.
A very moving film. Tight, vibrant and energetic., 13 December 2001
8/10
Author: rocker247 from U.S.A.
Well written film that was slightly hampered by cookie cutter direction and middle of the road acting. Still, this small film rocks and it'll move you. You better watch this film with someone that you care about and who cares about you. You'll need someone to hang on to as the ending is hard to watch. Brilliantly moving story. 8 out of 10.
