P.J.

A must see movie from new on the scene director Russ Emanuel. This is a wonderful story that really makes one stop and think about what is important in life. I found it very easy to relate to the emotions of some of the characters. The characters are well developed and leaves one really feeling like they got to know them. A real bonus is that the shots of New York are completely fantastic. I practically felt like I was there myself. It is amazing what they have done on such a limited budget. P.J. is a real tribute to independent films. I can't wait to see what comes next from Russ Emanuel. I hope that it is as strong a film as P.J.

As you can tell my by name, I love films of all types. That includes big-budget studio films to low-budget independent films. For a $250,000 budget, this film really stood out. From a stellar cast including "'Home Alone' Dad" John Heard, "Star Trek: Voyager's" Robert Picardo, "Maria Full of Grace's" Patricia Rae, and "The Sopranos" Vincent Pastore, to a heartfelt effort by the crew, this is a winner all the way. I did some research and I see reviewers who have seen this film and film festivals this film has been in all seem to agree. I wasn't surprised that Patricia Rae WON Best Actress at a Miami Fest and that this was a Best Feature Film winner at the New Jersey Film Fest. I can't wait for this to come to DVD, hopefully soon.

The acting is top-notch, the story too. But then again, any individual opposed to organized religion will absolutely love this movie. The 3 major religions all say someone (an ordinary person)will be "chosen" to intervene & save the lives of others, and will then pass this power on to someone else. That is the crux of this story. All the main characters are(alternatively)intrigued and threatened by the patient who knows their story. What to do? Commit him, or hear what he has to say? It's the challenge the Bible says we must all one day face. At the end of the day, it's discovered that PJ's there to help others and not snare them. I loved it!

With the line between what is low/no budget and "Indy" growing wider every day, PJ is a great representation of what true independent film making should be. Made on a shoestring budget by first time director Russ Emanuel, PJ succeeds where many features with ten times the budget fail. Delivering a skillfully shot, brilliantly scored and well acted piece of dramatic entertainment. The only real criticism should be in the screenplay which I felt was a bit too self motivated and had tendencies toward contrived, overly sentimental plot paths rather than establishing rich, dimensional characters that drive the story. This, unfortunately, led to some weak performances from the main character played by John Heard as well as a few of the ancillary, smaller characters. Patricia Rae, Howard Nash and Vincent Pastore, however, pick up the pieces and deliver some significant performances worthy of the accolades that the film has so far garnered. If for nothing else, watch this film for the cinematography by Seth Melnick and the soundtrack by Neil Argo. Both are stellar for the size of the production.

In these difficult times a thoughtful movie with an inspirational message is more than welcome. PJ delivers on both fronts. Howard Nash and John Heard's characters are both in search of solace and solutions and in the setting of a mental facility both struggle to find their individual paths. John Heard portrayal of Dr Shearson is a well crafted and believable performance. Howard Nash's PJ is a conflicted portrayal of man searching for meaning. Patrica Ray is masterful as "PJ's" girl friend. Vincent Pastore adds a comical spin and lightness to the darker portions of the movie. Neal Argo's music ties the elements of the film with a superb musical talent. Finally, Russ Emanuel's direction brings it all together with a fine touch for young director with great promise.