MacArthur Park

Although I have lived in Los Angeles for 7 years now, I never knew anything about MacArthur park. I knew that places like that existed and that there are dark places in society that most of us would consider hell. I knew that there were people that have lived in such places and were able to escape that world. I have a lot of respect for those that have made it out. I had heard about this movie but I never saw it. It was not until a co-worker of mine asked me if I had ever seen the movie. I told him I had not and he told me it was "his" movie. I was hesitant to believe him but he told me he wrote the screenplay. I looked it up and there it was; Tyrone Atkins. "Cody" as he goes by, gave me a copy of the movie and I was rather impressed with it. I totally recommend this movie. Very gritty movie. There is a whole different world out there that most people tend to ignore and we cannot forget how fortunate and blessed we are until you see people who truly have lost it all.

I was pulled into the story immediately. The camera work and pace are crisp, the editing precise. The story flows with strong characterizations that are not stereotypical. This is a population I work with and MP does not glorify the lifestyle but does give a perspective from the inside.

I saw this film at the Taos Talking Pictures film fest April 2001. We viewed it as many as 3 times. Each time I discovered something new. The first time it was the characters and story that filled my heart and soul. Then music, other layers and side plots became more evident. At the last viewing, excellent technique and editing ability were evident. For a first time director this is one terrific piece of work. I look forward to Billy Wirth's next project.

I first watched the making of MacArthur Park, so felt familiar with the characters. Billy Wirth has an amazing outlook, you listen to his story and see a different side to the characters. It was amazing to watch how the whole project came together. The cast and crew appeared to have a close relationship, which made certain scenes more soulful. I really felt for the characters the story is so well told. You have to admire the dedicated team who pulled off this piece of art! It makes one wonder how many people are overlooked because they are simply never given the opportunity to shine. An in-depth look at life on the streets for the dwellers of MacArthur Park, hurtful to watch, riveting all the same.

Actor Billy Worth (The Lost Boys) tries his hand at writing and directing and put our a film that gives a great slice of life in a park in Los Angeles.

Thomas Jefferson Byrd (Girl 6, Bulworth) leads a great ensemble cast that takes us into a world where crack is king, and life is moment to moment. Some get out on their own, while others are helped out by a blade or a bullet.

Byrd gets help by a great cast that includes Julie Delpy (Before Sunset), Jungle Julia (Sydney Tamiia Poitier), and Cynda Williams (One False Move, Mo' Better Blues).

Really enjoyable.