The Poor & Hungry

More involving than at least ninety-percent of all the Hollywood overproduced over-compromised rubbish out there. Why? Better writing, better acting, and better directing. Just look at what you can do with twenty-grand, and real talent. Lindsey Roberts (Harper) is a phenomenal actor. It's painful to see that she has only been cast in one small role since making this movie. The William Morris Agency should be crawling on their knees to her. Writer-director Craig Brewer has scripted a film called `Water's Edge' that comes out on DVD January 27, 2004.

I came across this film on IFC one night, very late. I started watching and though I was really tired, I just couldn't pull myself away. I ended up thinking about it long after the final credits had rolled.

This is a fine film with very strong performances. Like many of the best independent films, you get a fresh story about people you don't know, played by people you don't know. No preconceived notions. You get to learn about their world. And through the strength of the story and the acting, you begin to care about it.

Lyndsay Roberts gives an exceptional performance. I'm surprised I've not seen more of her, or other actors from this film, since. Craig Brewer has gone on to "bigger" things such as Hustle & Flow, and we'll likely see more from him.

I'd really like to see The Poor and Hungry released to DVD so that more people can have access to this nice piece of film making.

I actually registered w/ imdb just to vote on this movie. It was based in Memphis, but I didn't know anyone in the movie, so this isn't biased or anything. I usually don't like "arty" movies (hey, I liked Mystery Men), but this was exceptional. Not what I would expect. The acting, plot, soundtrack, production, everything was great. I paid $7 to see this, and I'd pay $15 to see it again. It's about a reluctant car thief who gets emotionally attached to one of his victims. A gritty look at consequenses. Don't base your decision on what I've written, because I'm not a critic. Just go see it. If you don't like it, I'll send you a Tootsie Roll.

Craig Where Are you man.

I caught The poor and Hungry at the St Louis International film festival and was deeply impressed. It shows that whatever media you choose to tell your story, a good story with an excellent storyteller can place an audience anywhere and move them effectively. Which is what a movie should do. The fact he shot it on digital 8 and a boom mic with very little crew. Nice. Now two questions

What are you doing now?

Where can I buy the DVD?

This is an excellent movie.

Phenomenal screenplay, lovingly photographed, incredibly well acted and directed. I think it's an astonishing movie.

For a first-time, low budget, movie, it's a miracle. Miraculous that it could be executed so well, and miraculous in that the director stayed true to his story and his characters, rather than trying to go over the top in attracting attention and showcasing his brilliance.

It really captures in an honest way the duality of life.

It is amazingly straightforward, told without overacting, building characters whom we wind up caring about.