MacArthur Park

I viewed this film at the Urbanworld Film Festival in New York City. Mr. Wirth was present and introduced the film. He held a Q and A session after the showing. The film has some humorous lines in the beginning and then takes off into a realistic look at the darker side of life. The sound track adds to the intensity and reality of this film. Mr. Wirth knows when to zoom the camera in for heightened emotions regarding character inter-reactions. This film deals with homelessness and substance abuse in an inner city park in a no nonsense manner. It is based on the journal of Tyrone Atkins, a man who documented his own personal struggles. You may not like the subject but the acting and directing are wonderful, you feel like you are right there in MacArthur Park. I feel that the general public needs to know that this film is based on fact and at the end people need to know that Mr. Atkins has become a productive member of society.

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.

Billy Wirth's dedication to this movie is proof of his many talents and I highly recommend it. His involvement in the screenplay, direction and starring role is what makes MacArthur Park a winner! As a result I will look forward to more of his productions.

"MacArthur Park" attempts to build a story around a motley bunch of street people who frequent and/or live in the big downtown Los Angeles park. Once the pride of L.A., the park, named after WWII General Douglas MacArthur, is now a marginally maintained place where street people hang out under the watchful eye of the everpresent LAPD. The film attempts to capture and dramatize some of the goings on in the park but only manages a feeble story at best which focuses mostly on crack users, assorted druggies, and other low-lifes. As the film wears on and eventually wears out it becomes increasingly apparent there's nothing new to be found between the credits. Just another "street" flick with nothing special going for it, this budget conscious indie and apparent pet project of first-time director Wirth is one to pass on. (C)