The Take

The first time I saw this it blew me away. Since then it is probably one of my favourite movies of all time - why? The stylishness, the grittiness, the acting and the passion. You can tell that the people involved in the project really put their all into it and truly believed in telling a good story. The story itself is, on the surface, something we've heard of before - typical heist gone wrong yada yada. But what makes this so special is the clever character study and the evolution we see in John Leguizamo's character. This is one of his best roles - the acting is top notch. Rosie Perez is equally impressive in her role and the passion bleeds from the screen. You can tell Director Brad Furman wanted to stay true to the roots of the characters - he did go to Boyle Heights and filmed within the neighbourhoods wherein the story is set. On the commentary to the film he talks about the issues this raised due to guerilla style filming and some of the risks involved. The evolution of Leguizamo's character, a man just trying to make an honest living and provide for his family, who gets caught up in something outside of his control and has to fight through the ruins of the aftermath. It's truly wonderful to witness - the lawnmower scene and his anger is felt through the screen as he battles the scars he's been left with as a result of the events. Having seen Furman's other films, I still consider this his best for its unique nerve and sheer determination to make this project feel realistic and gritty. 9/10 - For the brutal and hardcore acting, cinematography and gritty realism - do not miss this!

A quality movie, very good character development, it shows how Leguizamo's character grapples with rehabilitation after his near fatal gunshot wound and how his wife Perez's character has to adjust in their relationship. Gibson's character is a strong character both physically and emotionally and these roles suit Gibson as opposed to a Baby Boy role. The police detectives are relentless in their pursuit of justice. Good movie, one negative aspect was the gross sexual scene between Perez and Leguizamo but I guess the director was trying to show how his injury adversely affected their intimacy. I recommend this movie to anyone and I look forward to future work from this director

If I'd known this was categorically a drama I'd probably not have watched it. But I have a weakness for heist movies of any kind, and I really like Leguizamo, so I gave it a shot. Mistake. Now, the acting was good enough, especially from Rosie Perez, but the editing and choppy/shaky cinematography was beyond annoying, the music way too overdramatic, the action/suspense nonexistent save for the opening scene, and when it came down to it the movie was a recovery drama. As that, it wasn't too bad. Then comes the ending. The, uh, "climax." What were they thinking? A drawn out, fruitless chase scene. I'm not a spoiler reviewer which is tough here but I think I've made my point. The only way you should watch this is knowing it's a drama, and have the FF button at the ready.

The Take I feel is very entertaining, more so when I heard how much money the film makers had to work with. I read some other reviews, and I was surprised to read that many thought ill of it. First off, I'll say it is exceptionally great film, with some pretty good actors for $800,000. It's not the type of film that has over the top stunts, CGI effects galore, which to me is refreshing. It tends to focus on the story, struggles with every day life, and cogs in the justice system. It has a gritty style, and I feel it's really worth seeing if you aren't looking for a "tear it up" action/suspense movie. "Good" acting...6 "Great" story....8

The depictions and descriptions of the film can be read on numerous reviews here and elsewhere - but I have to say most of these writs seem determined to discredit a good film. I truly believe most can agree this is one of the best pieces of fiction best paralleling reality for L.A. filmed since (and including) Crash, Harsh Times, Training Day, etc.

Watching the deleted scenes, docu on filming, listening to commentary, and related media, they all reveal a true sense of wanting to make a non-Hollywood film with succession and an honest feeling of REALITY. Reading thru several armored car inside-jobs this film reveals a very authentic feel that deserves more credit than it is being given.

Outstanding performances by Cannavale, Perez and Gibson proving small films can bring the best out of someone. Regardless of the negative and technical reviews written about the end scenes and cultural inaccuracies - I have to give this film one of the most realistic portrayals I have seen in years centering around a man that is losing everything that makes him a man - and finds a way to regain it without being Jason Bourne or James Bond.

A worthwhile film that deserves a rent or maybe even a purchase for those from the areas of LA they film in…if anything - the sex scene is probably one of the most dedicated I have watched in some time - but at the same time shows a realism that mainstream cinema has missed for years…I will be recommending this title in my store for those looking for an authentic urban film.