Ted-Demme Movie Reviews

I saw this movie on HBO a couple of years ago, and I have been trying to find it on DVD for a couple of months now, I finally found it on VHS and bought it anyway, cause I just had to have it. The story with Taral Hicks is my favorite, she is trying to reach her mother who is dying in the hospital. She gets stuck and eventually she ends up having to call her from the subway station. When she gets a hold of her mother she sings here favorite song to her over the phone, the song is Troubles of the World. That girl sings the mess out of that song, it will bring tears to your eyes. If you have not seen this movie, you really should.

The first time I saw "Subway Stories" on HBO, it totally blew me away. The whole concept behind the film was to compile the winning short stories from a contest (all of the stories had to be connected to the subways of New York). While the stories are diverse in their plots and themes, I couldn't help but be glued to the TV anticipating the next story. There is something there for everyone. I was particularly fond of John Guare's segment about the war vet pan-handling on the train, although all of the stories were much better than average.

My only problem with this movie is that it is not yet available on DVD. IF you haven't seen this and are a fan of short stories, you will love this movie.

Please please please release "Subway Stories" on DVD! Its a great movie, but I'm waiting for the DVD (perhaps with some extras)!

I saw this movie on HBO a couple of years ago, and I have been trying to find it on DVD for a couple of months now, I finally found it on VHS and bought it anyway, cause I just had to have it. The story with Taral Hicks is my favorite, she is trying to reach her mother who is dying in the hospital. She gets stuck and eventually she ends up having to call her from the subway station. When she gets a hold of her mother she sings here favorite song to her over the phone, the song is Troubles of the World. That girl sings the mess out of that song, it will bring tears to your eyes. If you have not seen this movie, you really should.

The first time I saw "Subway Stories" on HBO, it totally blew me away. The whole concept behind the film was to compile the winning short stories from a contest (all of the stories had to be connected to the subways of New York). While the stories are diverse in their plots and themes, I couldn't help but be glued to the TV anticipating the next story. There is something there for everyone. I was particularly fond of John Guare's segment about the war vet pan-handling on the train, although all of the stories were much better than average.

My only problem with this movie is that it is not yet available on DVD. IF you haven't seen this and are a fan of short stories, you will love this movie.

Please please please release "Subway Stories" on DVD! Its a great movie, but I'm waiting for the DVD (perhaps with some extras)!

Ok, let's get it out of the way...yes this has a slightly "Trapped in Paradise" (the movie with Nichols Cage, John Lovitz, etc.) feel to it. Criminal with a good heart gets stuck somewhere during the holidays. But whereas the folks in "Trapped in Paradise" were hospitable to a sickening level, the family in "The Ref" are absolute bickering nightmares.

Enter Leary planning the rip-off. He gets stuck with this married couple (with one son) who fight, tooth and nail, over every excruciating detail of life. They are already in therapy and in part their troubles stem from the wife's former infidelity. Kevin Spacey plays the bitter husband who is equally as harsh towards his unfaithful wife. But Leary's involvement in the two...I won't give away how it comes about or how it ends...but let's just say it is absolutely priceless.

If you know Leary's style and attitude, just place it in the context of him having to deal with two [people] who are, presumably, deep down good people. His wit and delivery are impeccable. You will love it!

Defintiely get this DVD if you are at all thinking about it. I had not even seen it until I purchased it on DVD and I was so glad that I went ahead and made the purchase. I wager you will as well.

I have a toddler son and very little time to sit down and watch an entire movie. EXCEPT for The Ref. TBS shows this movie a lot, for which I am eternally grateful. Even with the "choice" language suctioned out, I still have to put my head between my knees to keep from passing out due to laughter everytime I see this movie. This movie is the film equivelant of a good shot of Bushmill's whiskey: strong and dry, the humor evaporates on your tongue and leaves you wanting more. Denis Leary is a cat burglar who kidnaps a bickering couple (Kevin Spacey and Judi Davis) to help him escape the cops after a bungled burglary. Little does he know that he has the couple from hell as his hostages... Other reviewers have done a great job explaining the plot, so I won't repeat. This could have easily veered off into stale stereotypes that would bring enough chuckles to not be a complete disaster, but not the home run that it is. Leary, Spacey, Davis, etc. (not to mention Ted Demme, the director), however, conspire to make this a slyly intelligent comedy, with subtle hilarious comments on marriage, in-laws, suburbia, parenthood, good and evil, and all the other grown-up dilemmas that most everyone deals with. I own approximately 5 videos of my own (3 of them are workout videos), and would gladly pay full price to replace my copy of The Ref if need be. This movie is inexplicably not on most reviewer's "Best of..." lists for reasons that escape me. Shame on them! Again, I cannot urge you strongly enough to buy this video. Without a doubt, this is Denis Leary's finest hour as a comedic actor.

As far as Holiday films go - this is the first of over 30 Holiday movies I watch every year at this time. It is funny and witty and amazingly well performed by everyone. Some may be offended by it - but those who can take it for what it is worth it is hysterical.

Dennis Leary (Ice Age, Stand Up COmic, A Bug's Life) is a small time burgler that meats his match in a home with a unique security system. That system fubbles his robbery and then leads him in frustration to meet Judy Davis (Life with Judy Garland, The Reagans, Deconstructing Harry) in a convienence store.

She plays the disgruntled wife the amazing Kevin Spacey (K-PAx, Pait Forward, American Beauty, A Bug's Life) who in himself is dissapointed in his life and marrage and more.

From there Dennis's character relazies he hijacked his Parents and all the relatives that go with it. On the road through this kidnapping all the characters learn about their lives, true feeligns and what is it to be true to each other.

Their son is also cleverly played by Robert J. Steinmiller, Jr. (The Ref, Rudy) who also learns a valuable lesson about his soon-to-be divorced parents.

Dennis, Judy and Kevin are amazing on screen. They dry humor and black comedy about real important human issues makes this fun, educational and extreemly humorous.

Coupled with the amazing performance of Chrstine Baranski (Happy Family, How The Grinch Stole Christams, The Birdcage) and the ever amazingly annoying mother-in-law played by Gylnis Johns (Marry Poppins, Superstar),

This movie has performances that shine with every cast member. No one is week, uninteresting or unbelievable. Directed by the late Ted Demme (Blow, Snith, Beautiful Girls) this has to be my favorite film of his.

Fun for the whole family (Under 13 watch with Mom and Dad)this film is fun for the Holidays. Check it out. I bought it. 11-30-03

Thomas Harris wrote three novels on which four different films are based: Manhunter (1986) and Red Dragon (2002) based on the same novel as well as Hannibal (2001) and this film. After a decade, it retains its strengths in terms directing, acting, and production values. For obvious reasons, however, it has lost much of its emotional impact for those such as I who have seen it several times since its initial release in 1991. Nonetheless, I find it every bit as entertaining now as I did then but for different reasons.

For example, the compelling personality of Dr. Hannibal Lecter (Anthony Hopkins) had such an impact on me the first time around that I paid little attention to information revealed about Clarice Starling's childhood. Jody Foster received an Academy Award for her performance as did Hopkins and director Jonathan Demme. Well-deserved. I now have a much better appreciation of the evolving relationship between Lecter and Starling, and a much better understanding of childhood influences on her values and especially her vulnerabilities. Also, I now have a greater appreciation of the performances of others, notably Ted Levine (Jame "Buffalo Bill" Gumb). During the final confrontation, he more than holds his own with the highly talented Foster. Finally, I am now more aware of Jack Crawford's importance to Starling. Portraying her supervisor, Scott Glenn appears only briefly but makes a critically important contribution to Starling's development, both personally and professionally. Her judgment proves better than his as they pursue Buffalo Bill and he duly acknowledges that.

As I now think again about this film, I realize that the dominant image previously had been of Lecter in his cell, smiling serenely at the earnest young F.B.I. agent. Whenever I heard a reference to the film or to Lecter, that is what immediately came to mind. Now, the dominant image is of the "cage" in which Lecter is served a lamb chop dinner by two of the guards. I recall it so vividly...and shudder.

The DVD version of a film offers clearer image and sound (which I certainly appreciate) but also, more often than not, a "bonus" of supplementary materials. In this instance, they include 20 minutes of deleted scenes, interviews of Jodie Foster and Anthony Hopkins, a "making-of" featurette, and a reel of out-takes.

Enough good things can not be said about this film. THE SILENCE OF THE LAMBS is a horror-thriller-drama in one, a masterpiece of modern cinema that swept in five Academy Awards including Best Picture. Loosely adapted from the best-seller by Thomas Harris, the film follows Clarice Starling (Jodie Foster), a young FBI trainee who must play an imprisoned cannibal genius' (Anthony Hopkins) mind games while trying to single-handedly track down a psychotic serial killer (Ted Levine). THE SILENCE OF THE LAMBS is deservedly a legend, which was followed by three sequels (chronologically, the film occurs after it's second sequel, RED DRAGON). Let me try to sum up my good thoughts in words. Jonathan Demme turns this from a masterpiece to a work of art with his outstanding direction and intriguing Point-of-View shots; Ted Tally writes the creepy, intelligent screenplay; then there's a short but very nice score by Howard Shore. Foster is at her best and portrays the character better than anyone else could try; Scott Glenn is good as her section chief, and Anthony Heald is good as the annoying and ignorant Dr. Chilton; Levine is very good as well, and brings out the character just as he should be. But the true highlight of the film is Anthony Hopkins as polite and genius Dr. Hannibal "The Cannibal" Lecter; Hopkins gives his best performance and one of the best performances ever captured on film - there is no doubt in my mind Hannibal Lecter is the ultimate villain. THE SILENCE OF THE LAMBS must be seen to believed. Make sure you take a bite out of this artful masterpiece!

This psychological thriller descends into the realm of madness as Dr. Hannibal Lecter (encased in an escape-proof cage - but is it REALLY escape-proof?) establishes an unusual connestion with FBI agent Clarice Starling. She comes to him requesting his insight and help figuring out the criminally insane mind of a serial killer she's stalking. Lecter agrees to cooperate, but at a price...
Impecable performances by Anthony Hopkins and Jodie Foster playing the leads.
Warning: Do Not Watch This Movie alone on a dark and rainy night. And take some Excedrin PM afterward, or you'll never get to sleep. Highest recommendation.

Thomas Harris wrote three novels on which four different films are based: Manhunter (1986) and Red Dragon (2002) based on the same novel as well as Hannibal (2001) and this film. After a decade, it retains its strengths in terms directing, acting, and production values. For obvious reasons, however, it has lost much of its emotional impact for those such as I who have seen it several times since its initial release in 1991. Nonetheless, I find it every bit as entertaining now as I did then but for different reasons.

For example, the compelling personality of Dr. Hannibal Lecter (Anthony Hopkins) had such an impact on me the first time around that I paid little attention to information revealed about Clarice Starling's childhood. Jody Foster received an Academy Award for her performance as did Hopkins and director Jonathan Demme. Well-deserved. I now have a much better appreciation of the evolving relationship between Lecter and Starling, and a much better understanding of childhood influences on her values and especially her vulnerabilities. Also, I now have a greater appreciation of the performances of others, notably Ted Levine (Jame "Buffalo Bill" Gumb). During the final confrontation, he more than holds his own with the highly talented Foster. Finally, I am now more aware of Jack Crawford's importance to Starling. Portraying her supervisor, Scott Glenn appears only briefly but makes a critically important contribution to Starling's development, both personally and professionally. Her judgment proves better than his as they pursue Buffalo Bill and he duly acknowledges that.

As I now think again about this film, I realize that the dominant image previously had been of Lecter in his cell, smiling serenely at the earnest young F.B.I. agent. Whenever I heard a reference to the film or to Lecter, that is what immediately came to mind. Now, the dominant image is of the "cage" in which Lecter is served a lamb chop dinner by two of the guards. I recall it so vividly...and shudder.

The DVD version of a film offers clearer image and sound (which I certainly appreciate) but also, more often than not, a "bonus" of supplementary materials. In this instance, they include 20 minutes of deleted scenes, interviews of Jodie Foster and Anthony Hopkins, a "making-of" featurette, and a reel of out-takes.

Enough good things can not be said about this film. THE SILENCE OF THE LAMBS is a horror-thriller-drama in one, a masterpiece of modern cinema that swept in five Academy Awards including Best Picture. Loosely adapted from the best-seller by Thomas Harris, the film follows Clarice Starling (Jodie Foster), a young FBI trainee who must play an imprisoned cannibal genius' (Anthony Hopkins) mind games while trying to single-handedly track down a psychotic serial killer (Ted Levine). THE SILENCE OF THE LAMBS is deservedly a legend, which was followed by three sequels (chronologically, the film occurs after it's second sequel, RED DRAGON). Let me try to sum up my good thoughts in words. Jonathan Demme turns this from a masterpiece to a work of art with his outstanding direction and intriguing Point-of-View shots; Ted Tally writes the creepy, intelligent screenplay; then there's a short but very nice score by Howard Shore. Foster is at her best and portrays the character better than anyone else could try; Scott Glenn is good as her section chief, and Anthony Heald is good as the annoying and ignorant Dr. Chilton; Levine is very good as well, and brings out the character just as he should be. But the true highlight of the film is Anthony Hopkins as polite and genius Dr. Hannibal "The Cannibal" Lecter; Hopkins gives his best performance and one of the best performances ever captured on film - there is no doubt in my mind Hannibal Lecter is the ultimate villain. THE SILENCE OF THE LAMBS must be seen to believed. Make sure you take a bite out of this artful masterpiece!

This psychological thriller descends into the realm of madness as Dr. Hannibal Lecter (encased in an escape-proof cage - but is it REALLY escape-proof?) establishes an unusual connestion with FBI agent Clarice Starling. She comes to him requesting his insight and help figuring out the criminally insane mind of a serial killer she's stalking. Lecter agrees to cooperate, but at a price...
Impecable performances by Anthony Hopkins and Jodie Foster playing the leads.
Warning: Do Not Watch This Movie alone on a dark and rainy night. And take some Excedrin PM afterward, or you'll never get to sleep. Highest recommendation.

Thomas Harris wrote three novels on which four different films are based: Manhunter (1986) and Red Dragon (2002) based on the same novel as well as Hannibal (2001) and this film. After a decade, it retains its strengths in terms directing, acting, and production values. For obvious reasons, however, it has lost much of its emotional impact for those such as I who have seen it several times since its initial release in 1991. Nonetheless, I find it every bit as entertaining now as I did then but for different reasons.

For example, the compelling personality of Dr. Hannibal Lecter (Anthony Hopkins) had such an impact on me the first time around that I paid little attention to information revealed about Clarice Starling's childhood. Jody Foster received an Academy Award for her performance as did Hopkins and director Jonathan Demme. Well-deserved. I now have a much better appreciation of the evolving relationship between Lecter and Starling, and a much better understanding of childhood influences on her values and especially her vulnerabilities. Also, I now have a greater appreciation of the performances of others, notably Ted Levine (Jame "Buffalo Bill" Gumb). During the final confrontation, he more than holds his own with the highly talented Foster. Finally, I am now more aware of Jack Crawford's importance to Starling. Portraying her supervisor, Scott Glenn appears only briefly but makes a critically important contribution to Starling's development, both personally and professionally. Her judgment proves better than his as they pursue Buffalo Bill and he duly acknowledges that.

As I now think again about this film, I realize that the dominant image previously had been of Lecter in his cell, smiling serenely at the earnest young F.B.I. agent. Whenever I heard a reference to the film or to Lecter, that is what immediately came to mind. Now, the dominant image is of the "cage" in which Lecter is served a lamb chop dinner by two of the guards. I recall it so vividly...and shudder.

The DVD version of a film offers clearer image and sound (which I certainly appreciate) but also, more often than not, a "bonus" of supplementary materials. In this instance, they include 20 minutes of deleted scenes, interviews of Jodie Foster and Anthony Hopkins, a "making-of" featurette, and a reel of out-takes.

Enough good things can not be said about this film. THE SILENCE OF THE LAMBS is a horror-thriller-drama in one, a masterpiece of modern cinema that swept in five Academy Awards including Best Picture. Loosely adapted from the best-seller by Thomas Harris, the film follows Clarice Starling (Jodie Foster), a young FBI trainee who must play an imprisoned cannibal genius' (Anthony Hopkins) mind games while trying to single-handedly track down a psychotic serial killer (Ted Levine). THE SILENCE OF THE LAMBS is deservedly a legend, which was followed by three sequels (chronologically, the film occurs after it's second sequel, RED DRAGON). Let me try to sum up my good thoughts in words. Jonathan Demme turns this from a masterpiece to a work of art with his outstanding direction and intriguing Point-of-View shots; Ted Tally writes the creepy, intelligent screenplay; then there's a short but very nice score by Howard Shore. Foster is at her best and portrays the character better than anyone else could try; Scott Glenn is good as her section chief, and Anthony Heald is good as the annoying and ignorant Dr. Chilton; Levine is very good as well, and brings out the character just as he should be. But the true highlight of the film is Anthony Hopkins as polite and genius Dr. Hannibal "The Cannibal" Lecter; Hopkins gives his best performance and one of the best performances ever captured on film - there is no doubt in my mind Hannibal Lecter is the ultimate villain. THE SILENCE OF THE LAMBS must be seen to believed. Make sure you take a bite out of this artful masterpiece!

This psychological thriller descends into the realm of madness as Dr. Hannibal Lecter (encased in an escape-proof cage - but is it REALLY escape-proof?) establishes an unusual connestion with FBI agent Clarice Starling. She comes to him requesting his insight and help figuring out the criminally insane mind of a serial killer she's stalking. Lecter agrees to cooperate, but at a price...
Impecable performances by Anthony Hopkins and Jodie Foster playing the leads.
Warning: Do Not Watch This Movie alone on a dark and rainy night. And take some Excedrin PM afterward, or you'll never get to sleep. Highest recommendation.

Thomas Harris wrote three novels on which four different films are based: Manhunter (1986) and Red Dragon (2002) based on the same novel as well as Hannibal (2001) and this film. After a decade, it retains its strengths in terms directing, acting, and production values. For obvious reasons, however, it has lost much of its emotional impact for those such as I who have seen it several times since its initial release in 1991. Nonetheless, I find it every bit as entertaining now as I did then but for different reasons.

For example, the compelling personality of Dr. Hannibal Lecter (Anthony Hopkins) had such an impact on me the first time around that I paid little attention to information revealed about Clarice Starling's childhood. Jody Foster received an Academy Award for her performance as did Hopkins and director Jonathan Demme. Well-deserved. I now have a much better appreciation of the evolving relationship between Lecter and Starling, and a much better understanding of childhood influences on her values and especially her vulnerabilities. Also, I now have a greater appreciation of the performances of others, notably Ted Levine (Jame "Buffalo Bill" Gumb). During the final confrontation, he more than holds his own with the highly talented Foster. Finally, I am now more aware of Jack Crawford's importance to Starling. Portraying her supervisor, Scott Glenn appears only briefly but makes a critically important contribution to Starling's development, both personally and professionally. Her judgment proves better than his as they pursue Buffalo Bill and he duly acknowledges that.

As I now think again about this film, I realize that the dominant image previously had been of Lecter in his cell, smiling serenely at the earnest young F.B.I. agent. Whenever I heard a reference to the film or to Lecter, that is what immediately came to mind. Now, the dominant image is of the "cage" in which Lecter is served a lamb chop dinner by two of the guards. I recall it so vividly...and shudder.

The DVD version of a film offers clearer image and sound (which I certainly appreciate) but also, more often than not, a "bonus" of supplementary materials. In this instance, they include 20 minutes of deleted scenes, interviews of Jodie Foster and Anthony Hopkins, a "making-of" featurette, and a reel of out-takes.

Enough good things can not be said about this film. THE SILENCE OF THE LAMBS is a horror-thriller-drama in one, a masterpiece of modern cinema that swept in five Academy Awards including Best Picture. Loosely adapted from the best-seller by Thomas Harris, the film follows Clarice Starling (Jodie Foster), a young FBI trainee who must play an imprisoned cannibal genius' (Anthony Hopkins) mind games while trying to single-handedly track down a psychotic serial killer (Ted Levine). THE SILENCE OF THE LAMBS is deservedly a legend, which was followed by three sequels (chronologically, the film occurs after it's second sequel, RED DRAGON). Let me try to sum up my good thoughts in words. Jonathan Demme turns this from a masterpiece to a work of art with his outstanding direction and intriguing Point-of-View shots; Ted Tally writes the creepy, intelligent screenplay; then there's a short but very nice score by Howard Shore. Foster is at her best and portrays the character better than anyone else could try; Scott Glenn is good as her section chief, and Anthony Heald is good as the annoying and ignorant Dr. Chilton; Levine is very good as well, and brings out the character just as he should be. But the true highlight of the film is Anthony Hopkins as polite and genius Dr. Hannibal "The Cannibal" Lecter; Hopkins gives his best performance and one of the best performances ever captured on film - there is no doubt in my mind Hannibal Lecter is the ultimate villain. THE SILENCE OF THE LAMBS must be seen to believed. Make sure you take a bite out of this artful masterpiece!

This psychological thriller descends into the realm of madness as Dr. Hannibal Lecter (encased in an escape-proof cage - but is it REALLY escape-proof?) establishes an unusual connestion with FBI agent Clarice Starling. She comes to him requesting his insight and help figuring out the criminally insane mind of a serial killer she's stalking. Lecter agrees to cooperate, but at a price...
Impecable performances by Anthony Hopkins and Jodie Foster playing the leads.
Warning: Do Not Watch This Movie alone on a dark and rainy night. And take some Excedrin PM afterward, or you'll never get to sleep. Highest recommendation.

This is one of the most fun and interesting films I've seen in recent years. Fun, yet not without its serious side. The cast is great, with Timothy Hutton, Matt Dillon, Lauren Holly, Annabeth Gish, and Uma Thurman portraying classic characters in their late twenties. Natalie Portman nearly steals the show as a precotious 13-year-old, who sets her heart on Timothy Hutton.

We all know people (friends) like these characters. They ring true to our life experience. I think all guys struggle with the issues these guys are struggling with. (Maybe its true for women and the female characters as well?)

Do you look back to your past with longing for what could have been, or forge ahead into the future with whatever it brings?
Do you cling to the wild and independent spirit of your youth, or settle down into "commited" and maturing relationships?

Throw in a bar fight, some car crashes (all excused as raging male hormones), and you have a mix that could result in disaster (movie-wise), but director Ted Demme keeps it all together, and with just the right level of finese, comes up with a film that works, and works well!

The story line of this movie is set at the ten year high school reunion. Listening to the characters was like going to my own reunion. I saw myself and my buddies in these characters. What a classic this is! With an all-star cast including Timothy Hutton, Matt Dillon, Lauren Holly, rosie O'Donnell, natalie Portman, Michael Rapaport, Martha Plimpton, Uma Thurman and Mira Sorvino and a wonderfully matched soundtrack this movie is hard to top.

Will (Timothy Hutton) is trying to figure out the path his life will take, should he get married or not. But he is intrigued by the little girl next door and starts to think that his future wife may be a bit ordinary. Add to the mix Uma Thurman's out of town character that is beautiful and witty and Will is getting more muddled all the time. The local boys plow snow, drink beer and have affairs with married women, date women for nine years without proposing and raise kid with not clue how to do it. All real life things that we see everyday with ordinary people.

A movie that should not be missed, that an be watched over and over and will make you laugh and ponder the relationships that people get into.

I love this movie in oh so many ways, most of which are much too subtle for me to express in my current state. But I just had to respond, at least, to all these reviews saying this takes place in the Midwest or Minnesota. Where are you getting this from? Willie leaves the Port Authority Bus Terminal in NYC - telling his boss his bus trip is 5 or 6 hours. And in the bar, Paul talks about the guys in the bar who go to The Cape for 2 weeks out of every summer. Sorry folks - this takes place somewhere in Central Mass. In fact, I think I actually read that somewhere anyway. A great film - great acting - I disagree with all the criticisms - but I won't go into them all now.

This is one of the most fun and interesting films I've seen in recent years. Fun, yet not without its serious side. The cast is great, with Timothy Hutton, Matt Dillon, Lauren Holly, Annabeth Gish, and Uma Thurman portraying classic characters in their late twenties. Natalie Portman nearly steals the show as a precotious 13-year-old, who sets her heart on Timothy Hutton.

We all know people (friends) like these characters. They ring true to our life experience. I think all guys struggle with the issues these guys are struggling with. (Maybe its true for women and the female characters as well?)

Do you look back to your past with longing for what could have been, or forge ahead into the future with whatever it brings?
Do you cling to the wild and independent spirit of your youth, or settle down into "commited" and maturing relationships?

Throw in a bar fight, some car crashes (all excused as raging male hormones), and you have a mix that could result in disaster (movie-wise), but director Ted Demme keeps it all together, and with just the right level of finese, comes up with a film that works, and works well!

The story line of this movie is set at the ten year high school reunion. Listening to the characters was like going to my own reunion. I saw myself and my buddies in these characters. What a classic this is! With an all-star cast including Timothy Hutton, Matt Dillon, Lauren Holly, rosie O'Donnell, natalie Portman, Michael Rapaport, Martha Plimpton, Uma Thurman and Mira Sorvino and a wonderfully matched soundtrack this movie is hard to top.

Will (Timothy Hutton) is trying to figure out the path his life will take, should he get married or not. But he is intrigued by the little girl next door and starts to think that his future wife may be a bit ordinary. Add to the mix Uma Thurman's out of town character that is beautiful and witty and Will is getting more muddled all the time. The local boys plow snow, drink beer and have affairs with married women, date women for nine years without proposing and raise kid with not clue how to do it. All real life things that we see everyday with ordinary people.

A movie that should not be missed, that an be watched over and over and will make you laugh and ponder the relationships that people get into.

I love this movie in oh so many ways, most of which are much too subtle for me to express in my current state. But I just had to respond, at least, to all these reviews saying this takes place in the Midwest or Minnesota. Where are you getting this from? Willie leaves the Port Authority Bus Terminal in NYC - telling his boss his bus trip is 5 or 6 hours. And in the bar, Paul talks about the guys in the bar who go to The Cape for 2 weeks out of every summer. Sorry folks - this takes place somewhere in Central Mass. In fact, I think I actually read that somewhere anyway. A great film - great acting - I disagree with all the criticisms - but I won't go into them all now.

Leary gives a grand and different styled performance. Billy Crudup gets killed by Colm Meaney and Crudup was Leary's cousin because Crudup did a bad thing to Meaney. Martin Sheen is the corrupt cop in the movie and Famke Janssen is the woman who is in a relationship with Meaney but pints over Leary. its story is good but it lags here and there. the end where Leary goes to see Meaney then pulls out a gun, shoots his guys and then him was surprising and is the highlight. other actors like Janeane Tripplehorn, Jason Barry, Noah Emmerich and John Diehl contribute supporting roles.

This movie is one of these small gems that manage to slip by everybody in the theatres. But fortunately, it's now available on DVD and for rental. Monument Ave. is pretty cliched in terms of it's story line about a criminal who must choose between his loyalty to his friends or that of his boss. However, the true ingenuity of the film is the dialogue. It flows off the screen in a current of truth and harsh realities that rivals that of Tarantino. Listen to it carefully. The performances are very good, especially that of Denis Leary. The way he balances comedy, which is his forte, and drama is very good. I was truly impressed with this breakout performance by him and hope to see him in more dramatic roles. Colm Meany, who plays the Irish crime boss is equally effective as a character who will be your best friend and stab you in the back at the same time. This film was directed by Ted Demme, yonger brother of Jonathan Demme, the dude that directed the Silence of the Lambs. With this film, Ted Demme again proves that he is a distinct talent, seperate from his brother.

This is an unjustly neglected film. Director Ted Demme died far too young, leaving behind a solid list of films that suggested great possiblities from the mature filmmaker we will never get to see. One of the significant things about his work is that he is the only person who really understood how to use Dennis Leary. In a word, Leary is great here. His conflicted emotions about escaping the narrow confines of his violent world and the actions he takes that only ensure his failure power a character that rivals Micheal Corleone (without the operatic granduer) or John Garfield in Force of Evil. The harsh locations, the sub-culture within a subculture, the suddenness of the violence, the twadriness of the criminal enterprise are all vividly captured in a film justly called "the Irish Mean Streets".