The natural rhythms of the (largely improvised) script create characters and situations that are authentic, hilarious and engaging. These are real people caught between their aspirations and grim reality ... except for Ricky, who wouldn't recognise reality if it smacked him in the face. And Vaughn is the film's wild card--charming, very funny and deeply obnoxious. Favreau's more even-toned Bobby is a subtle, effective performance, and it's in the contrast between the two that the film works best. Because this is exactly how it is with lifelong friends who have grown into very different adults, but remain naive kids at heart. The script also has a great time playing with street slang and mob cliches (including a Sopranos crossover--three cast members appear here, echoing Favreau's spot in the last Sopranos series). While the you-know-it's-going-to-go-horribly-wrong scenario is a bit irritating, smart writing and directing help carry us through. As does an undercurrent of life-or-death decisions that makes it surprisingly thoughtful.

adult themes and situations, strong language, violence

21.Jan.02