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.

This was one of the best movies I have seen all year. I am not usually into independent films, but this is defanatly one to see! I would recommend this movie to anyone, as I'm sure that I will. Check around on the Independant channels and tune it!

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.

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.

The Poor and Hungry is an excellent film, especially if you live in or are familiar with Memphis. The ending is a little silly, but otherwise the movie is both funny and heartwrenching. It's also a incredibly insightful look at the unique culture of Memphis, touching on the city's poverty, race issues and seediness while at the same time showing the filmmaker's genuine love for a town like no other. For Memphians, it's a must-see; for everyone else, it's still worth the price of a ticket.