Amazon.com

Readers of John Berendt's bestselling novel were bound to be at least somewhat disappointed by this big-screen adaptation, but despite mixed reaction from critics and audiences, there's still plenty to admire about director Clint Eastwood's take on the material. Readers will surely miss the rich atmosphere and societal detail that Berendt brought to his "Savannah story," and the movie can only scratch the surface of Georgian history, tradition, and wealthy decadence underlying Berendt's fact-based murder mystery. Still, Eastwood maintains an assured focus on the wonderful eccentrics of Savannah, most notably a gay Savannah antiques dealer (superbly played by Kevin Spacey), who may or may not have killed his friend and alleged lover (Jude Law). John Cusack plays the Town & Country journalist who arrives in Savannah to find much more than he bargained for--including the city's legendary drag queen Lady Chablis (playing "herself")--and John Lee Hancock's smoothly adapted screenplay succeeds in bringing Berendt's characters vividly to life with plenty of flavorful dialogue. In similar fashion to Warner's acclaimed DVD of L.A. Confidential, this classy DVD includes a behind-the-scenes documentary titled The Real People in the Garden and an interactive map tour of Savannah and its most celebrated (or notorious) citizens. The original theatrical trailer is also included. --Jeff Shannon ... Read more

Reviews (104)

Dark at "Midnight"
The echoes of Southern Gothic don't come much more gothic than "Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil," Clint Eastwood's flawed adaptation of the bestselling true crime book. While the movie only dips briefly into the genteel decadence of the upper-crust South, and the general air of Savannah, it does have its fun moments and good acting.

John Kelso (John Cusack) has come to Georgia to cover the famous Christmas party of the wealthy James Williams (Kevin Spacey). As well as Williams, Kelso ends up befriending a bevy of eccentrics, including some happy-go-lucky partygoers and the Lady Chablis (played by... the Lady Chablis), a drag queen with a mischievous sense of humor.

But things go wrong after the party. Williams' employee/boyfriend Billy Carl Hanson (Jude Law) is found dead after a fight with Williams -- and Williams seems like the most likely suspect. As a not-so-pleasant trial begins, Kelso sets out to unravel the mystery of what really went on that night, and what the truth behind Hanson's death is.

The biggest flaw of "Midnight" is that it is way too short for the material it stems from -- several years and multiple trials are compressed into a matter of weeks, and many of the endearingly freaky people of Savannah are given short shrift. Only the Lady Chablis gets enough time -- the guy with the flies and poison, for example, is touched on but never dealt with.

But as far as execution goes, much of "Midnight" is quite charming -- warm, sleepy and a little overgrown, much like the vision of Savannah it shows. Even a midnight voodoo session doesn't break the mood. And Eastwood manages to give us a charming view of the eccentricities of "Gone With the Wind on mescaline." (Exhibit A: The guy walking an invisible, deceased dog)

Both Cusack and Spacey do an excellent job bringing their characters to life: Cusack always seems a little out of the current, a realistic outsider, while Spacey exudes grace, charm and a sort of apologetic pride. Jude Law, for the brief time we see him, does a good job as the redneck hellraiser. And who can forget the Lady Chablis? Chablis is pretty clearly having a wonderful time (playing herself, no less). The one cast flaw is Alison Eastwood, who doesn't seem to bother acting.

While "Midnight of Good and Evil" fails to live up to its promise, it is a charming and funny look at the deep South. Well-acted but patchily adapted, this is an amusing movie if you don't expect it to stick too closely to the book.

A timeless piece of eccentric south
I have lived in the south all my life. Watching this movie reminded me of how beautiful and special this place is. Clint Eastwood's interpretation of John Berendt's piece of literary art was splendid in its own right. It reminded me of how rich our heritage is. The music, the superb casting (no one can deny the talent of the great Kevin Spacey) and the seemingly endless parade of characters kept me enthralled from the beginning. It's not often a film can pull at my heartstrings, teach me something about tolerance and history, reveal such beauty and amuse me at the same time. The movie so moved me that I read the book. Although somewhat different, each form was intriguing. I have just returned from Savannah. I was constantly reminded of the story of Jim Williams as I walked the squares and felt the history therein. This filmed turned attention once again to a wonderful magical place, the South.

I liked this movie...
...back when it was called "The Great Gatsby!" This movie (and book) is a thinly-veiled rip-off of The Great Gatsby.

One of Eastwood's best and funniest movies
For years I put off watching this movie because of lukewarm reviews, but when I finally rented it I was delighted by its surrealistic regional irony. In fact, I was laughing out loud through much of the movie. Granted, social satire tends to rely on exaggeration and stereotype for effect, but its humor succeeds most when it portrays characters in a sympathetic rather than derisive light. This movie succeeds admirably in that regard.

One complaint is that, as with many Ron Howard or Steven Spielberg movies, a bit of sentimental shmaltz creeps in at times, for example with the voodoo priestess character. Thank heaven at least they didn't cast Whoopi Goldberg in the role.

If movies such as "Fargo", "Best in Show", and "Eyes Wide Shut" left you more puzzled than tickled, then this movie may seem as slow and inactive as some critics accuse. Other critics bemoan that it doesn't do the book justice: I have not read the book, but I do feel that the movie stands well on its own. So much so, in fact, that I immediately went to Amazon afterwards and purchased it. For me, anyway, this movie is a keeper.

Not what I expected
I read the book when it first appeared on the bestseller list, and waited for the movie, holding my breath. The book was simply wonderful and deserved it's place as number one, but sadly, the movie was lacking. But there were some good points. Part of the fun of watching this movie is sorting out the real characters from the actors. John Cusack's role as a writer for an upscale magazine was an understandable, even essential fabrication to tie the events together with some dramatic continuity. How many people noticed Cusack's sister Ann in a brief walk-on appearance? One character that stands out, and I mean really stands out is Lady Chablis. If you watch this movie for no other reason, watch it to witness this highly unusual and sometimes hilarious real life personality who as a local entertainer still resided in the Savannah, Georgia area at the time of the DVD release. Again, for such a wonderul book, the movie didn't do it justice. One can only hope that McCrae's book, "Bark of the Dogwood--A Tour of Southern Homes and Gardens" does not suffer the same fate. ... Read more

Description

A police inspector, investigating a string of sex crimes, succumbsto the wiles of some of the prostitues he questions. He finds that he has much in common with the murderer he's pursuing. ... Read more

Reviews (12)

Be prepared for some X-rated Clint!!!
"Tightrope" contains some of the most graphic material ever seen in a Clint Eastwood film (eg: bondage scenes, homosexuality, sadomasochism). Definitely not for viewers under 16, even though I've had the movie since I was 11!!! Don't let the graphic material turn you off though because this film contains one of Clint's few great performances. His character's vulnerability has only been matched in two other movies that I know of (eg: In The Line of Fire, The Outlaw Josey Wales) and he should have at least been nominated for an Academy Award. Clint Eastwood plays Wes Block, a New Orleans detective who has been assigned to catch a serial sex killer. While on the trail, he finds himself sinking into the world of prostitution and other weird sexual fetishes. When the killer strikes too close to home (literally), Block forces himself out of his hole and the final battle between the cop and the killer has some very shocking and extremely violent scenes. "Tightrope" is indeed one of Clint's finer movies, even better than most in his "Dirty Harry" series. Warning: This film is strictly for adults.

Class: Thriller, Species : Coitus Kinky
Tightrope opens with the familiar credits that mark most of Clint Eastwood's films : Malpaso films presents...over an arial shot of car crossing a bridge. What is most surprising about this film is that writer/director Richard Tuggle uses the familiar framework of the "serial killer" movie to explore themes of guilt, sadomasochism, sexism and paranoia. Even more surprising is the fact that he explores those qualties in his hero, not the killer.

Eastwood stars as Wes Block, a New Orleans cop investigating the murders of several prostitutes who were tortured, raped and strangled. On his journey through the brothels of the city we sense that he has been there before, not as cop, but as a customer. Eastwood has the usual throwaway lines that have made his Harry Callahan character so famous, as when a prostitute apporches him "Want some honey?", "I don't eat sweets" he replies. But where Callahan draws knowing smirks from the audience, Block only draws gasps. Eastwood lets us know that any outward confidence he projects is merely a mask over his guilt. This leads to an early riveting scene where he interviews a hooker about her murdered friend "Did she mention anybody using handcuffs?" he asks. "I think it was a cop, maybe it was you" she jokes. The look on Eastwood's is face is one of such anguish, that he may even suspect himself. This one of Eastwood's best and bravest performances.

The scenes in the brothels and over the corpses are contrasted with surprisingly warm domestic scenes of Block the single parent raising his two daughters. The contrast is alarming, and the children are perhaps the only reason why he hasn't gone over the edge just yet. There is a particularly chilling suggestion in Tightrope that Block maybe vicariously living his fantasies through the killer.

On a physcological level the film is an original, where it falters is the plot. Perhaps inorder to get the film made, Tuggle was forced to add all the well worn cliches, such as the obligatory chase climax and the unmasking of the killer. He also has a tendancy to hammer home his points, as in the unnessecary dream sequence where Eastwood imagines he is the killer.

Some could persuasively argue the film wallows in excesses of depravity. I would disagree, an exploitation film tries to find a token story to hold acres of naked flesh and gore. A real film is driven to these taboo places BY its story. Tightrope is a real film. In its moody and intelligent way it suggests an innate depravity within the mildest of men.

Kinky,Kinky, Kinky Clint...
Man, what can be said about a southern detective walking the thin line between deviance and virtue, honor and sluttiness, father and "Whose your Daddy?", well, Clint does it well.
Great story of Clint as a detective hot on the trail of a killer who may be hot on Clint's trail. Some great one-liners, plenty o' nakedness, action, and cute kids. This movie actually makes you feel dirty, but in a good way. I saw rent it, buy it, put it under your pillow, drop it off on your co-workers desk and tell them that a good time awaits them. Hopefuly you won't get fired.

late.

Dark, Menacing, and Ambiguous
To me, this film is even more impressive today than it was when I first saw it. Frankly, when seeing it 20 years ago, I was thrown off-balance by the character whom Eastwood plays, Wes Block, a police detective in New Orleans. He pursues a serial killer of prostitutes, a psychopath with whom he seems to share similar psycho-sexual preoccupations. Presumably this was a risky part for Eastwood to take on. Under skillful but deferential direction by Richard Tuggle, he explores with great skill certain depraved tendencies within himself which were much more shocking in 1984 than they seem to be, unfortunately, two decades later. Block's personal situation is complicated even more by the fact that he a single parent, raising two daughters. It is also important to remember that his personal conduct creates the risk of compromising his professional integrity as a law enforcement officer. For these and other reasons, Block is a much more enigmatic character than, for example, Harry ("what you see is what you get") Callahan.

In the role of Beryl Thibodeaux, Genevieve Bujold portrays a criminal psychologist who is attracted to Block as they work together even as she begins to sense and then contend with at least some of the demons which torment him. So much of this film occurs (both literally and symbolically) in darkness. Even a trained professional such as Thibodeaux is frustrated in her attempts to understand someone for whom she feels sincere affection. Special credit should be given to Bruce Surtees for superb cinematography which is coordinated seamlessly with the often depressing storyline. He had worked with Eastwood in previous films which include Dirty Harry (1971), Play Misty for Me (also 1971), Pale Rider (1975), and The Outlaw Josie Wales (1976). The supporting cast is excellent, notably Eastwood's daughter Alison who plays his older Amanda in the film, and Dan Hadeya as Detective Molinari. Eventually, after the serial killer kidnaps Amanda Block, her distraught and enraged father pursues her to a riveting conclusion when....

Others are much better qualified than I to express this opinion but I think Wes Block is a character which begins a new transition for Eastwood the actor. Thereafter, the characters he plays tend to be of the "sadder but wiser" variety, much less self-assured, more fatalistic in their view of the world, skeptical and sometimes cynical, reluctant to trust anyone or anything, and are -- for me, therefore -- much more interesting. This is an especially upsetting film which has lost little (if any) of its dramatic impact. Twenty years after its initial release and probably because I have become a grandfather, there are certain situations in Tightrope which are even more upsetting now than ever before.

Eastwood as ghost director
Eastwood replaced Tuggle as director after, I believe, one day of torpid self-doubting direction. Tuggle maintained directorial credit, though this film is directed by Eastwood himself. And it shows. ... Read more

Amazon.com

Director Clint Eastwood's 1997 box-office hit stars himself as Luther Whitney, a highly skilled thief who finds himself in the wrong place at the wrong time, witnessing the murder of a woman involved in a secret tryst with the U.S. president (played by Gene Hackman). Determined to clear his name, Whitney cleverly eludes a tenacious detective (Ed Harris) while investigating a corruption of power reaching to the highest level of government. Adapted by veteran screenwriter William Goldman from David Baldacci's novel, this thriller balances expert suspense with well-drawn characters and an intelligent plot that's just a pounding heartbeat away from real White House headlines. Absolute Power features the great Judy Davis in a memorable supporting role as the White House chief of staff who desperately attempts to cover up the crime. --Jeff Shannon ... Read more

Reviews (41)

Two fabulous moments
Given its pedigree, and the talent on offer in every department, "Absolute Power" ought to be Absolutely Stunning. However, except for two sequences, it is merely competant entertainment.

The first great moment is a conversation in the Museum between Ed Harris (a cop investigating a robbery and murder) and Clint Eastwood (a known jewel thief). Harris suspects Eastwood, and is hoping to trick him into an admission by asking for "advice" on how the crime might have been committed. Eastwood did in fact commit the break-in and witnessed the murder, neither of which facts he wants to reveal. The conversation is a delightful cat-and-mouse game, acknowledged as such by both characters while they continue playing. It ends with Eastwood remarking that he must leave to go and have his pace-maker checked: Harris counters that he will be back tomorrow: "Tomorrow is promised to no-one," comes the rejoinder.

The second is a consumately filmed conversation between Gene Hackman and Judy Davis (respectively the U.S President and his Chief of Staff) while they give an exhibition-dance at a formal White House function. As they waltz, the President reveals to Davis that she is unknowingly wearing a necklace belonging to the murder-victim; in turn, Davis tells him that incriminating evidence is in the hands of Eastwood, who may use it to expose them both. As they trade this ghastly information back and forth in front of the assembled dignitaries, they have to pretend to be having a light-hearted, joking conversation.

Two fine scenes do not make a fine movie. But the rest is sufficiently entertaining that you will probably feel it was worth it.

A political thriller but also a strong father-daughter story
At the start of "Absolute Power" Luther Whitne (Clint Eastwood), cat burglar par excellence, finds himself in a very strange situation. While robbing a rich man's safe in a large bedroom closet, he is interrupted by the appearance of a man and woman who head straight for the bed. While hiding in the closet, where he sees what is going on through a two-way mirror, he watches while the sex play gets rough: the man hits her, she stabs him with a letter opener, and then two men come into the room and shoot her. Luther gets out of there, but while his presence was undetected it does not go undiscovered. The problem is that the man he was watching happens to be the President of the United States (Gene Hackman).

Now, I have to stop at this point and tell you that one of my cinematic pet peeves is the idea that the United States Secret Service will let the president do anything, no matter how stupid or reckless, without batting an eye. Indeed, in "Absolute Power" there are two such agents, who help to cover up the murder and then try to track down Luther and kill him. However, the actors playing those two agents happen to be Scott Glenn and Dennis Haysbert, which is an important fact because a lot of the faults in this film area absolved by the casting, the credit for which goes to the film's director: Clint Eastwood.

The hook for this thriller is the idea that the president, his Chief of Staff (Judy Davis), and the Secret Service are out to get Luther, whose stated intention is to get out of town and get lost as quick as possible. But the key to this film ends up being a rather odd romantic triangle that exists between Luther, his estranged daughter, Kate (Laura Linney), and the D.C. homicide cop, Seth Frank (Ed Harris), who is assigned to the murder. Frank interviews Luther, not because he thinks the old con is a murderer, but because he is one of the few that could have pulled off the heist. He then moves on to Kate, hoping to get her to persuade her father to turn himself in before the wrath of the rich man (E.G. Marshall) whose wife is dead comes crashing down on him. Frank clearly likes Kate and is rather impressed by Luther, which is good because I like smart cops. For his part, Luther clearly has some admiration for the detective and also likes his taste in women.

My favorite scene in this movie is when Frank takes Kate to her father's house, where she has never been, and (knowing where Luther hides the key), takes her inside. In one room she finds a gallery of photographs, of all of the key moments in her life after her father left. "She was at none of these," she insists to Frank, although clearly that was never the case and we can see in an instant that she is rethinking her entire relationship with her father. As much as it is fun to watch Luther outsmart the cops, the Secret Service, and the hitman sent by old man Sullivan, the heart of this film is between Luther and Kate. Even when she sets him up, believing it to be the only way of helping keep her father alive, he surprises her by showing up. His reasoning? He did not want her to believe he was a murderer. Besides, his daughter wanted to see him.

I understand the script by William Goldman is quite different from David Balducci's novel, but that simply has to do with Eastwood playing Luther (if you read the novel you will understand why this would matter in terms of the significant changes). Eastwood's direction is competent as always, and, as I mentioned above, he gets the credit for being able to bring together such a solid cast for one of his projects (who would turn down a Clint Eastwood movie?). Final Note: the White House Tour Guide is played by the director's daughter, Kimber Eastwood.

THIS TAKES A SWIPE AT CLINTON
"Absolute Power" had me thinking that somebody read my screenplay, "A Murderous Campaign", used my idea but gave me no credit. Maybe. "Absolute" is a Clint Eastwood picture, playing on the public perception that Bill Clinton might just be a murderer. However, the President bears no resemblance to Clinton.

STEVEN TRAVERS
AUTHOR OF "BARRY BONDS: BASEBALL'S SUPERMAN"
STWRITES@AOL.COM

Brilliant Thriller!!
In the dark times of the Clinton presidency of scandal and corruption ....this movie really hit home. I was amazed that Hollywood even let this movie slide by, considering their Leftist politics!
Gene Hackman plays a Clinton like President who cheats on his wife and biggest fund raising supporter,...with his chief of staff..seemingly resembling Hillary Clinton, who covers up for him...added to the dimension of realism to this movie. It almost resembles Tom Clancy's work with all the politics and secret service detail. Given the hilarious irony that a jewel thief/War hero (Clint Eastwood)had more honesty and character than this wife cheating President was even more funny!

This movie is one of Clint Eastwood's best...and is enjoyable no matter what party you are from.

Clint vs. The White House...Who Will Win?...Well, You Know!
This review refers to the Warner Home Video(DVD edition) of "Absolute Power"

This is one of Clint's best. It really shows off his expertise in front of and behind the camera. His on screen magnetism matches his superb direction in this great thriller. Also included is some of the best talent in Hollywood, as Clint has a knack for surrounding himself with the finest actors.

"Absolute Power" from 1997 is a terrific thriller that will have you on the edge of your seat(even after repeated viewings) as Clint goes up against some mighty powerful enemies. He is an aging master thief, and while in the process off pulling of the ultimate job, witnesses a murder.And this murder involves the most powerful man in the world. When Clint is the chief suspect, he must prove that the blood trail leads all the way to the Whitehouse. Not an easy task for our guy, as he is being persued by all sides.The film is multi-faceted as it also let's us in on this thief's softer side as he tries to build a relationship with his estranged daughter. A huge cast includes, Ed Harris, Gene Hackman, Laura Linney, Scott Glenn,Judy Davis, Dennis Haysbert and the great E.G. Marshall.

This film looks and sound magnificent on this superior quality DVD. You have the choice of widescreen(highly recommended), or standard format. Colors are vibrant, and the picture is crystal clear.The Dolby Dig 5.1 will have you thinking all the action is going on right in your living room. There are some production notes included and there are subtitles in English, French and Spanish.

This film is also offered as part of a 3-pack here at Amazon...The Clint Eastwood "Hero" collection. It also includes "Heartbreak Ridge" and "A Perfect World", which also stars Kevin Costner. If you are like me and can't live without ALL of Clint's work..the 3-pack would be a more economical way to go!

Washington is no match for our guy!(Who is?)....Go for it..and enjoy...Laurie ... Read more

Description

Rack up this 2003 theatrical release featuring an all-star cast including Chazz Palminteri and Christopher Walken. A gritty dramatic thriller: POOLHALL JUNKIES.

When Johnny, a poolhall hustler, tries to quit the game, it's not as easy as he thinks. And when his younger brother gets hooked into a con that could cost his brother's life, Johnny is forced to play for the biggest stake of his career. It's bigger than money, bigger than life, and bigger than either player can imagine. ... Read more

Reviews (28)

Surprisingly good
A street-wise talented pool player missed his opportunity to play in the big time as his mentor decided that he's better off husting money from the downtrodden. So, the movie fast-forwarded to 15 years later when he's no better off despite that he's got a well-to-do paralegal beautiful girlfriend, a poolhall owner who treated him like his own son in the shape of the late Rod Steiger, a loving brother with a bunch of friends who aspired to be like him. By chance, he discovered that all these years, his mentor betrayed him by witholding the truth from him. The relationships soured & they went separate ways. As fate had it, his brother got tangled up with his ex-mentor & he had to play pool for the one last time to save his brother & his honour. The movie happily chugged along & Christopher Walken played the mysterious chap who backed the talented player & helped him to believe in his own self. The message that this movie tried to say is simply: life is what you made it to be. If you keep thinking that you are a loser, you are bound to end up with losers like yourself whilst if you believe that you are a winner, you can escape from the vicious cycle & be someone truly great. Definitely a feel good movie with no pretension. Highly recommended.

Wannabe Pool Buffs?
How about a wannabe film critic.

First of all, Mike Massey, who has been ranked #l several times over his career and who, in a profession that is predicated on gambling, is ironically a devoted christian, was NOT in the film.

Secondly, a story with definite potential proved a flop due to, yes, lack of focus,but also trite assertions (It's ALL about the money), and poor directing/acting by a Ben Affleck wannabe (who was most appropriately paired with a mobile home salesman who looked like he got a face lift to look like Tony Curtis). Christopher Walken was the lone saving grace of this movie because he is Christopher Walken, not because of any merit by the so-deemed crafters of the film. Alas, Rod Steiger's potential impact was scuttled due to inept scripting and direction, which can nearly be said for the muted Ricky Schroeder as well.

Indeed, the screenplay shamelessly [copied] numerous other works, the game scenes were all flash which at best contradicts the reality (pool hustling is about hiding your skill, not advertising it so all the big-money patsies will steer well clear of you), and hustlers very rarely get hustled by other hustlers, especially from such a sophmoric trick like giving away several balls in an eightball match.

Two stars is a generous rating for this flic which is well outclassed by The Color of Money, which plays a distant second to the classic The Hustler (featuring Willie Mosconi whom many still regard as the best player of all time, Jake LaMotta of belated boxing fame, and not to mention Jackie Gleason who was an expert pool player himself- the camera never blinks when he takes a shot). If you enjoy gambling stories in general, check out The Cincinnati Kid starring Steve McQueen, Karl Malden and Edward G. Robinson, a nearly forgotten gem that is to Rounders what The Hustler is to The Color of Money.

And beware of literate phonies who need attention.

Poor effort
I am a pool junkie myself, and this film, while somewhat entertaining just by the fact it deals with pool, falls well short of the mark. The story itself is very underdeveloped, and leaves alot of loose ends. There are a few clever exchanges of bravado and quips, but any pool player with a few years of experience will tell you that this stuff just doesn't happen. No one loses a few hundred, or few thousand bucks on a drinking or pool game that hinges on symantics like "your" shot or "my" shot, and pays up with a "hey ya got me" grin.

The pool is bad. The main character says he can tell Walken has been playing pool from a crease in his pants and some blue chalk marks. First I'd be leary of a guy looking at my pants, second they return to a table with red felt. Who uses blue chalk on red felt? These "pro" level hustlers end up going three to five rails on almost every shot, playing for upwards of $80,000 in a 9 ball race to 5. While the shots are impressive, I ask you this ... What decent poolplayer has to shoot every shot as a bank or three rail shot? If you can't leave yorself even one straight in shot in 5 games, should you really be playing for thousands a game?

The story is ridiculous. The shots are dazzling, but so ridiculously over complicated for a a poolhall money game. Walken is wasted here. The story is weak. If you can look past the lack of plot development, and the technical deficiencies and just want to watch anything about pool, it is OK. There are a few quotes you will find yourself trying to remember for the poolhall, and an 8 ball shot that you will have to try yourself, but have probably tried already before seeing the movie.

This movie is strictly for the non critcal "Poolhall Junkie".

nothing special
**1/2 Though likeable at times, "Poolhall Junkies" is essentially an uneven mix of comedy and drama. Gregory "Mars" Martin, who co-wrote and directed the film, also stars as Johnny Doyle, a hustler-with-a-heart-of-gold who coulda' been a contenda' if only his mentor/manager, Joe (Chazz Palminteri), hadn't stood in his way.

"Poolhall Junkies" demonstrates the risks inherent in a young filmmaker finding it necessary to cast himself in the starring role. Though he somehow managed to rope such acting heavyweights as Palminteri, Rod Steiger and the ubiquitous Christopher Walken into his project, Martin himself has nowhere near the intensity and gravitas necessary to take center stage in a film. As a result of his weak performance, the film lacks the intensity and grit it needs to succeed. In addition, the movie suffers from unfocused plotting, a few too many characters, corny dialogue and a predictable resolution. The one saving grace of the film, however, is that it doesn't take itself too seriously and doesn't feel the need to go into melodramatic overdrive to make its points.

"Poolhall Junkies" is a painless time waster, though better you should spend that time re-watching "The Hustler" and reminding yourself how this material should be done. Or, better yet, maybe Martin should have done that before taking on this assignment.

Rack 'em up.

Not a bad pool movie
I liked the movie a lot. I think that the acting was good and Walken was a great fit in the roles like Chazz too. It may have lacked a little in the dramatics but overall the dialogue and the the poolhall atmosphere was portrayed nicely. If you are a huge pool buff or a huge pool movie buff, this may not be high on your list but still it is very well made and honestly could have been worse. Makes me wanna get a "hustler" shirt and head down to my poolhall looking like a badass. ... Read more

Reviews (60)

Kurt Vonnegut is Better Read than Seen
For those who love Kurt Vonnegut, you would appreciate this movie, but only immediately after reading the book version. For those who haven't read the book "Breakfast of Champions", you will be utterly lost in this film.

Kurt Vonnegut stories are fantasies, written tongue-in-cheek with little reflection on reality. The characters are cartoon personifications of annoying people, and the setting is generally a middle-America, strip mall-saturated, consumer-ish nightmare. Just bringing the audience up to speed on the story environment is difficult to visually represent within the timeframe of an average movie.

The acting is done well, especially Albert Finney as Kilgore Trout, Vonnegut's alter ego that appears in many of his books. Bruce Willis does an adequate job as Dwayne Hoover as does Barbara Hershey as his wife, but the story didn't allow us understand them enough. Once again, putting a Vonnegut book to film and making it complete within 2 hours is, in my opinion, an impossible task.

But unlike most similar book-to-movie transitions, "Breakfast of Champions" holds true to the book, so much that it falls short of conveying the roles and motivations of the characters and circumstances. So once again, Vonnegut readers will be amused, but newbies will be befuddled.

...And Cut
You know, some books were never meant for the world of film. Despite how popular and well loved they may be by everyone, that doesn't mean it'll make a successful movie. "Breakfast of Champions" is a perfect example of this. While it proves to be a masterpiece in the written form, it ends up being one lousy film that tries so hard to be funny and fails almost every time.

The movie follows the basic premise of the book, but adds and changes things around (which I understand, because most of the stuff in that book wouldn't be able to translate on film--hence, why it should've never been done in the first place). Dwayne Hoover is a car dealer that everybody loves and trusts. Dwayne Hoover, is also losing his mind. From his pill-popping wife to his cross-dressing business buddy, Dwayne is losing his grip on reality on a daily basis. Soon, he will meet a sci-fi writer that nobody has ever heard of (except for one deranged fan), Kilgore Trout. Their meeting will be the final straw for Dwayne and chaos will be the aftermath.

What made the book so funny in the first place was the actual commentary by Vonnegut as the overall narrator. It wasn't necessarily funny only because of the characters and their actions, but mainly because of Kurt Vonnegut's voice. Of course, they have to do away with the narration in order to have it work on film. The problem is, however, it doesn't work. It feels like a bad imitation of "Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas." It's rarely funny nor is it strange, it's just plain annoying. The only way this film will be understood by others is if they have read the book ahead of time. And even if they've done that, they'll only end up being more ticked off at the debauchery that is the movie, "Breakfast of Champions." I wasn't expecting a dead-on adaptation, just something to do the book some kind of justice. Sorry to say, this film does no such thing.

The DVD has almost no special features, and for the first time ever--I could care less. In fact, I'd be even more ticked off if this DVD had tons of special features while other great movies have "doodley-squat" for special features.

"Breakfast of Champions," while a literary masterpiece, is a "fabulously well-to-do" dud as a movie. I can't even recommend this to people who haven't read the book, as they'll most likely despise it since they will have no idea what is going on. This movie is living proof that some timeless literary classics were never meant for the big screen. I think Vonnegut would agree with that. In fact, with all of the rants he does on entertainment, TV, and short attention spans, it wouldn't surprise me if Vonnegut structured the book to be un-filmable on purpose. Avoid it and stick to the book, if you want my honest opinion. -Michael Crane

Breakfast of Champions
This movie is hilarious. I saw it like 20 times before I read the book, and couldn't even really tell what it was about, but was intrigued by it nonetheless. Then I read the book, and realized what was going on, and it became 20 times better. All these naysayers don't know what they're talking about. Buy this movie, I've been trying to forever but no one has it but here. BUY BUY BUY!!!!

Terrible Movie in it's Own Medium
The movie is not as good as the book. It never is.
The movie does not closely resemble the book. It never does.

These are the most common complaints I have heard most people make against this film, but I am going to leave those things adside and judge the film simply as a comedy, but first a brief synopsis.

Wayne Hoover is a well to do car salesman in Midland city and he is having a very bad day. He is starting to see things that are really not there and hear voices that are really not there. He is going insane and he knows it.

Kilgore Trout is a sci fi writer who writes outrageous stories that appear in pornograpyh magazines. On the whim of one of his only fans he is invited to Midland city for an arts festival and decides to go. When Wayne and Kilgore meet all hell breaks loose.

The sad truth though is that all hell does not break loose as it should in a comedy like this. The performances are very subdued. For instance Wayne Hoover has a scene with an employee who is secretly a cross dresser about his clothing! What a hoot huh! Unfortunatley no, it is not a hoot it is barely even a chirp. I expected Wayne to jump up on the desk screaming and ranting as would befit a man going insane, but instead he calmly explains to his employee that he should wear more colorful clothes.

I rented this movie expecting a skillfully crafted black comedy, what I got was a gray farce. If you are renting this movie and you read the book you will be dissappointed. If you are renting this movie and you have not read the book you will be equally dissappointed, it is just all around bad.

As a comedy it comes up short. There are hardly any funny scenes. I do not recall laughing once.

Who said
"Illiterates need not apply"? They were right on. No this movie will not completely mimic the book, however, I think it does an excellent job of capturing the unique essence that is Vonnegut, on film. If you are familiar with Vonnegut's body of work, you will appreciate this film, and might even wet yourself laughing.

You either get it, or you don't. ... Read more

Description

A strictly monogamous man (Robert Mailhouse) stops to help a stranded female with a broken down car. In gratitude she offers oral sex, when he reluctantly accepts. However, just as they get involved, the cops arrive and it turns out that the woman is a known prostitute. The man is arrested and is forced to call his wife (Alison Eastwood) at 3 AM to bail him out. A few days later he is evicted from his home by his wife. His best friends (Jonathan Silverman, William Ragsdale) question how he could have been so naive. Meanwhile his wife and her friends (Kimberly Williams, Jessica Lundy) plan their own night out with full sexual plans. Meanwhile the men decide that an apology is at hand. Arriving home, instead of his wife, he finds his mother-in-law (Lauren Hutton). Eventually the guys, girls, and mom all end up together in a night club that brings all the events to a head. ... Read more

Reviews (9)

Harmless Fun
Those who like shows like "Sex and the City" will certainly enjoy this romantic comedy about a group of hip friends in their late twenties. Their problems are essentially trying (and mostly failing) to find a sex partner and eventually a loved one. Infidelity, friendship, maturity and life choices are some of the subjects present in this little movie, providing a couple of laughs but not many memorable scenes. The acting is competent, the pacing is ok, but the plot and direction are nothing to write home about. All in all, a watchable flick and an entertaining enough one, even if it doesn`t rise above average material.

Good to watch once.

Just a little harmless fun
Here is a film that pokes fun at both men & women, taking full advantage of every stereotype imaginable. In short, it does precisely what a light Romantic comedy is supposed to do! It's a whole lot of harmless fun along the way, too.

The plotline centers around the age-old problem of the straying husband. In this case, however, the fellow does not have a pre-meditated inclination to cheat on his wife. Rather, he picks up a stranded motorist (who somehow ends up being a courtesan) and gets caught by what seems to be an anti-prostitute SWAT team. And, his luck seems to go from bad to worse from there!

After his wife & her friends & her mother find out, the poor fellow begins his penance and all of the typical human rituals of attempting to get her to take him back. Thanks to his two buddies, the whole situation is put in the most zany perspective imaginable!

The film is almost a real-time movie as 90% of it takes place in a bar. One would think that the one-setting-framework would tend to get tedious, but there are enough twists & turns in the storyline to keep the viewer interested.

As is so often the case these days, you get the typical plain Jane knockout (capably played by Kimberly Williams). However, I could tell from the get-go that she was no plain Jane, no matter how much they tried to make her look like a geek.

If you want a light-hearted look at the serious issue of infidelity, this one would appear to be a clear-cut winner. Or, if you're simply in the market for another Romantic Comedy & good fun, you can do a whole lot worse than a little harmless sex.

Very Entertaining!
I watched this movie the other night and out of 4 that I had rented over the weekend (Whatever, the Dead Zone and War Zone) this one is the one that I enjoyed the most (with Whatever being a worthy second). I just really enjoyed the cast (all very eclectic unknowns) and the storyline, which was lighthearted and funny. I rented it having never heard of it before, but went with the "two thumbs up" stamp of approval that I generally agree with and this was no exception! I don't know if I'd give it a 5 star, but it's certainly better than average and better than most of the [types] that comes out these days.

good acting, terrible story
though the actors are well casts, the movie just doesn't really work. The film is so dark from the beginning (look wise I mean) it is hard to watch. Also, even though this was a low budget indie, that doesn't make up for sloppy film making. Though Rachel Hunter has no purpose in this film and they shouldn't waste money on hiring her for that little cameo (could have spent money to reshot the scene when you can see the camera guy) the rest of the cast is great, especially Jonathan Silverman and Jessica Lundy as the sarcastic divorced couple who broke up over a magor misunder standing. Watch Silverman as he confesses his dirty little secret

Priceless evenings entertainment
Excellent dialogue, one liners, reasonable acting; not to be taken seriously, this movie is really into character development. If you enjoyed Friends and Lovers, you'll like this one. ... Read more

Reviews (10)

Just for fun
This is definetly not a movie for everyone, but i enjoyed it. it doesn't tackle any huge issues, and the plot is kind of predictable, but it was fun to watch. if you are in the mood for a no brainer movie, this is it...and we all know sometimes we want to watch a movie that doesn't need explaining...a movie you can just kick back and enjoy. I LOVE robert downey jr, and he is by far the best actor in the film. The best scene is when they guys try to get the girls to get naked in the hot tub with them, i laughed so hard when keaton dropped his towel and the girls went screaming into the house histarically laughing because of a rather large, very exposed extremity...i almost died...but you'll have to check it out for yourselves...not for the younger viewers...but fun if you want a no brainer...it reminded me of me and my friends on our little trips...i think that's why i liked it...it's cheesy, but relateable on some level...worth checking out.

wonderful movie
I saw this movie and loved the depth of every character and the diversity. Stephen Baldwin had me laughing till the end with his nons top antics. Stunning handling of straight and gay relationships. 5 stars in my book

Friends & Lovers
Apparently I'm the only one who found this movie funny and romantic! I laughed quite a bit, and yes it was campy and the acting probably wasn't the greatest, but I don't think the writer was expecting an Oscar nomination here. Above everything else, us ladies are finally getting pay back for having to sit through female nudity in just about every R rated movie. Friends & Lovers finally showed up some full frontal male nudity, and for that alone I gave it 5 stars! People- don't be so rigid when reviewing a movie! Enjoy the ridiculous too!!!

Embarrasing!
This is a serious contenders for The Worst Movies Ever Hall of Fame.

Nothing to challenging but cute and warm
All of the reviews you have read to this point have been pretty accurate, for the most part. And, yes, I can easily see how this movie would receive anywhere from 1 to 4 stars--it just depends on what mood you're in and what you're looking for. The acting in this film, while not necessarily Oscar material, is cute and suitably campy. The one-liners are very well-timed. The cast is fairly balanced, ranging from a weak performance by Claudia Schiffer all the way to the very creative and noteworthy antics of Stephen Baldwin and Robert Downey Jr. Yes, it's predictable and none too challenging to follow, but if you need cute laughs for the above 18 crowd, you may want to check it out. ... Read more

Reviews (8)

WOW!! Rory Cochran is AWESOME!!
I just loved this movie. I am a big Rory fan and just thought that he was sexy in this movie. Really hot!!! And Gina was just as good. And a very nice suprise in the end. If you don't want your typical I know who did it in the beginning, then this is your movie.

Black and White is your standard good cop bad cop tale
The old riddle about a newspaper goes, "What's black and white, and read all over?" Well, the best way to sum up this movie is to say: it's called Black and White and I read right through it. A cop is on a killing spree through the dark streets of Los Angeles, shooting junkies and other no-good-nicks in the left eye. Rookie cop and Chris O'Brien is partnered with the beautiful, veteran female cop, Hugs to solve the case. The evidence starts to pile up against Hugs, and O'Brien must choose to trust his partner or his employer interesting movie good thriller

Black & White
Not one of Gina Gershon's best roles. The plot has plenty of twists and turns. You won't know "who dunnit" until the very end of the film. Some interesting nude scenes. If you're a Gina Gershon fan...buy BOUND. Much better.

letdown
I have recently watched Thief and Internal Affairs for the third or fourth time and both of these movies are still more engrossing than B & W which I saw for the first time. There are several flaws in this film not least of all casting, directing and script! It starts off with high expectations and quickly fizzles.

Black & White: Best Movie of the Year, Gershon is Brilliant
Black & White is the best movie I have seen to date. Gina Gershon is brilliant as an LAPD officer with a new partner and also under suspicion for murders taking place within her police division.

The writing is clever. Gershon delivers with brilliance and humor, pure talent; a real gift to movie fans.

Black & White is captivating and will leave you guessing until the final scene. ... Read more

Reviews (3)

About This Movie
The first time I saw this movie was on Lifetime TV and I almost changed the channel, but something about the description of the movie caught my eye. Its hard to describe the movie without giving away the full plot, but I love how its set out. Its well worth getting, and it will probably be back on TV pretty soon. Check out lifetimetv.com to see when.

spring me outta here
This is about as low budget as you can get.It has made in Canada written all over it.Just in case anyone has the misfortune to sit through this drivel I'd best not reveal the plot they'll be mapping out in a cemetary after they see this debacle.The acting is atrocious except for Alison Eastwood who incredibly manages to remain intelligent throughout this debacle.Kyle Mclachalan is dreadful-in fact he's so bad I often thought watching this movie that he was going to walk into the camera.He has an emotional range of 1 to -1.There are thousands of great movies to be had on Amazon.com-this is not one of them.

Great movie, great transfer to DVD
I won;t give away the story, but do yourselves a favour and grab this title. Get it on DVD, not on VHS. This DVD is a worthy addition to your collection, with fantastic sound and picture, nice features and packaging. Very tidy release, we need more like it! ... Read more

Reviews (3)

About This Movie
The first time I saw this movie was on Lifetime TV and I almost changed the channel, but something about the description of the movie caught my eye. Its hard to describe the movie without giving away the full plot, but I love how its set out. Its well worth getting, and it will probably be back on TV pretty soon. Check out lifetimetv.com to see when.

spring me outta here
This is about as low budget as you can get.It has made in Canada written all over it.Just in case anyone has the misfortune to sit through this drivel I'd best not reveal the plot they'll be mapping out in a cemetary after they see this debacle.The acting is atrocious except for Alison Eastwood who incredibly manages to remain intelligent throughout this debacle.Kyle Mclachalan is dreadful-in fact he's so bad I often thought watching this movie that he was going to walk into the camera.He has an emotional range of 1 to -1.There are thousands of great movies to be had on Amazon.com-this is not one of them.

Great movie, great transfer to DVD
I won;t give away the story, but do yourselves a favour and grab this title. Get it on DVD, not on VHS. This DVD is a worthy addition to your collection, with fantastic sound and picture, nice features and packaging. Very tidy release, we need more like it! ... Read more

Reviews (9)

Harmless Fun
Those who like shows like "Sex and the City" will certainly enjoy this romantic comedy about a group of hip friends in their late twenties. Their problems are essentially trying (and mostly failing) to find a sex partner and eventually a loved one. Infidelity, friendship, maturity and life choices are some of the subjects present in this little movie, providing a couple of laughs but not many memorable scenes. The acting is competent, the pacing is ok, but the plot and direction are nothing to write home about. All in all, a watchable flick and an entertaining enough one, even if it doesn`t rise above average material.

Good to watch once.

Just a little harmless fun
Here is a film that pokes fun at both men & women, taking full advantage of every stereotype imaginable. In short, it does precisely what a light Romantic comedy is supposed to do! It's a whole lot of harmless fun along the way, too.

The plotline centers around the age-old problem of the straying husband. In this case, however, the fellow does not have a pre-meditated inclination to cheat on his wife. Rather, he picks up a stranded motorist (who somehow ends up being a courtesan) and gets caught by what seems to be an anti-prostitute SWAT team. And, his luck seems to go from bad to worse from there!

After his wife & her friends & her mother find out, the poor fellow begins his penance and all of the typical human rituals of attempting to get her to take him back. Thanks to his two buddies, the whole situation is put in the most zany perspective imaginable!

The film is almost a real-time movie as 90% of it takes place in a bar. One would think that the one-setting-framework would tend to get tedious, but there are enough twists & turns in the storyline to keep the viewer interested.

As is so often the case these days, you get the typical plain Jane knockout (capably played by Kimberly Williams). However, I could tell from the get-go that she was no plain Jane, no matter how much they tried to make her look like a geek.

If you want a light-hearted look at the serious issue of infidelity, this one would appear to be a clear-cut winner. Or, if you're simply in the market for another Romantic Comedy & good fun, you can do a whole lot worse than a little harmless sex.

Very Entertaining!
I watched this movie the other night and out of 4 that I had rented over the weekend (Whatever, the Dead Zone and War Zone) this one is the one that I enjoyed the most (with Whatever being a worthy second). I just really enjoyed the cast (all very eclectic unknowns) and the storyline, which was lighthearted and funny. I rented it having never heard of it before, but went with the "two thumbs up" stamp of approval that I generally agree with and this was no exception! I don't know if I'd give it a 5 star, but it's certainly better than average and better than most of the [types] that comes out these days.

good acting, terrible story
though the actors are well casts, the movie just doesn't really work. The film is so dark from the beginning (look wise I mean) it is hard to watch. Also, even though this was a low budget indie, that doesn't make up for sloppy film making. Though Rachel Hunter has no purpose in this film and they shouldn't waste money on hiring her for that little cameo (could have spent money to reshot the scene when you can see the camera guy) the rest of the cast is great, especially Jonathan Silverman and Jessica Lundy as the sarcastic divorced couple who broke up over a magor misunder standing. Watch Silverman as he confesses his dirty little secret

Priceless evenings entertainment
Excellent dialogue, one liners, reasonable acting; not to be taken seriously, this movie is really into character development. If you enjoyed Friends and Lovers, you'll like this one. ... Read more

Amazon.com

After accidentally setting fire to his apartment--and revealing thathe'd kept a cat in a no-pets building--Parker (Johnathon Schaech from That Thing You Do! and The Doom Generation) needs to find a new place to live. Temporarily he camps out at the apartment of his best friend, Jack (James LeGros, Living in Oblivion, Drugstore Cowboy), but Jack's incessant one-night stands start to drive him nuts. Finally he gets introduced to Sam (Alison Eastwood, Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil), who invites him to move into her place--but only because she thinks he's gay. Pretending to be gay not only leads Parker to discover things about his coworkers and friends, but also about himself. He finds himself more comfortable with women as a gay man than he'd ever been before. But as he grows more and more smitten with Sam, his masquerade becomes more and more troublesome. If You Only Knew wants to address honesty and self-identity in a light, farcical way; unfortunately, the writing is stale and unoriginal. But though the movie's humor falls pretty flat, there are some surprisingly sweet moments that make it almost worthwhile. Also featuring the lovely Gabrielle Anwar as a friend of Sam's who is drawn to Parker even though she thinks he's gay. --Bret Fetzer ... Read more

Reviews (17)

I JUST LIKE THE MUSIC
if SOMEBODY KNOWS the SOUNDTRACK LIST could send it on o_bad.red@virgilio.it ????????

Great Story
this happens to be one of my favorite movies! ive seen it many times, and everytime i love it even more. Great story, and for most parts i think that this has in one way happned to all of us. you try to be someone your not to get something that you could have easily had if you were yourself! but each person has their own opinions and i LOVE this movie, and recomend any and everyone to watch it.

bad script, bad acting, a waste of time
I've tried to watch this so-called comedy - but it's very hard to bear. This is a bad, narrow-minded, cliché-ridden movie. Not funny, but rather boring and annoying indeed. Bad script, bad acting, this movie looks like an accident. It's a complete waste of time - and there remains nothing more to say, I'm afraid.

bad script, bad acting, not funny
I've tried to watch this so-called comedy - but it's very hard to bear. This is a bad, narrow-minded, cliché-ridden movie. Not funny, but rather boring and annoying indeed. Bad script, bad acting, this movie looks like an accident. It's a complete waste of time - and there remains nothing more to say, I'm afraid.

great movie like the music too
I LIKE FUNNY MOVIES, AND THIS MOVIE HAD SOME INTERESTING COMEDY TO IT IF YOU ASK ME. I LIKE MOST OF THE SONGS, I JUST DON'T KNOW WHAT SOME OF THEM ARE CALLED AND WHO MAKES THE. IF ANYONE KNOWS WHERE I CAN GET THE SOUNDTRACK LIST, PLEASE LET ME KNOW! ... Read more