Diamond Men

I recently saw this film at the Stony Brook Film Festival. This is a very clever film with very good acting and writing. Robert Forster's performance is key to the success of the film and he pulls it off wonderfully. Donnie Wahlberg, while not my favorite actor, provides capable support. Bess Armstrong looks great, she has been a favorite actress of mine for years. The rest of the cast does well in support, but ultimately it is Forster who carries the movie to its success. Dan Cohen has a hit on his hands, I hope to see more of his work in the future.

This little gem of a film was shown on cable. Since I don't think it ever had a commercial run, at least locally, it was a delight that came out of nowhere. Dan Cohen, working with his own material, has dome wonders with this buddy/road picture in which two different men with different mentalities and background, come together as they touch each other's lives in more ways than expected. If you haven't seen this film, please stop reading.

Eddie Miller is an old salesman who loses his job after having a mild heart attack. The firm he has been working for years suddenly decide to fire him because he cannot be insured any more. Eddie is in a difficult position; his wife has died and left him with debts that he must repay. This is a decent man who has done honest work for his company and suddenly finds he must either stay for a few weeks training the new guy, who is going to inherit his job, or else, go into an unknown future, probably doing menial work.

The new man, Bobby is a happy go lucky kind of guy who enjoys his time on the road as it gives him the opportunity to play around all over his territory with waitresses, bar maids, or other women who are willing to have a good time with a handsome fellow. The contrast between Eddie and Bobby is notorious. Eddie prefers to stay in the motel room and solve puzzles rather than go drinking with the apprentice.

This is a story of contrasts between two different generations. What makes the film so endearing is the great work by the two principals. Robert Forster has been around, behind the stars for quite a while. He is a reliable character actor who is dependable, does his work well, but one never sees him in a lead role such as the one in here. Donnie Wahlberg, the new partner, is excellent in that he is just the opposite of the older man, but one can see the rapport between them. Donnie Wahlberg makes a magnificent contribution to the movie.

Bess Armstrong, makes the most with the small role of Katie, the woman who meets Eddie in the worst possible circumstances, but immediately recognizes this man is honest and decent. Eddie is the answer to her prayers and hopes. The two have incredible charisma and ease in their scenes together. Also, in a small part, Jasmine Guy, who is the kind hearted Tina, the owner of the "house of leisure" where Bobby convinces Eddie in going. Ms. Guy does wonders with her small time in front of the camera.

This is a film with an unpredictable ending. Director Cohen takes us into a wonderful road trip all over the state of Pennsylvania, and what a treat it turns out to be for those willing to embark in this adventure.

This film takes us into the world of diamond selling, with brilliant (like the diamonds being sold) cast, director and script. Slowly, we come to know these people, seeing their flaws and then learning to love almost all of them. This film should have had wider release when it was first introduced in theaters...and should be used as a lesson to film makers in schools across the country.

Great road movie with excellent character development. Unfairly being "rightsized" out of his 30 year diamond sales job, "old timer" Robert Forster, is put on the road to train his successor. This uneasy situation eventually leads to mutual respect, and better understanding of each other. The heartless big company that they now both have to deal with is a perfect example of the "throw away" mentality used by companies to further their own gain at the expense of loyal employees. All I can say is that if you have ever been "let go", you will cherish this film, because in the end things get surprisingly gratifying for our mismatched salesmen. The movie is a winner, and is highly recommended. - MERK

Another in the genre of "Average Guys Have Feelings Too". Grainy film, home movie locations, good character roles, well played. The story is engaging, despite its worn character types. Forster as Eddie is perfectly cast and works his minimalist magic. Wahlberg as Bobbie is trying to be Brando at times, but manages to show some range of acting skill. Katie, as played by Bess Armstrong, is well written and adds needed depth just in time to the flat story line. Katie and Eddie end up being just as unethical and immoral as the rest of the blue world they occupy. The twist at the film's end, in my opinion, gives the story a flat tire. A good story, but too cynical.