On Broadway

It never ceases to amaze me how different people are so different - how anyone could watch this film and say 'its not great' is just beyond me. The story was written by someone who has lived it, and will immediately be recognised by those who have travelled that path. In reading the reviews so far you could be forgiven for thinking that the story was about families, about Boston, about father and son reconciliation (and maybe it is and its me who missed the point). It spoke to me, however, about the leap of faith, the courage and the determination an ordinary mortal needs to become a writer, and how, for a story to be anything more than a fleeting moment among neurons, the writer must become a magnet for good people to join him/her - a messiah of sorts.

There were moments in the film that felt like the final rehearsal before the scene should be shot (when Pete and wife have their first argument springs to mind), but to me that lack of Hollywood gloss just made the whole thing even more real.

If you have anything to do with story-telling, or you have aspirations in that direction, then you will not just enjoy this film, you will benefit from it.

This movie, small though it is, is brilliant. It has real heart and a genuine love for its subject. I knew none of the actors in On Broadway but they all turned in wonderfully "real" performances. All through the film I found myself willing the main character Jack to succeed in his desire to write, stage and direct his first play inspired by his beloved uncle's death, in spite of fierce opposition from his father. The relationships between the characters whether familial or romantic are portrayed in a really authentic way and are totally believable. I want to see anything else written or directed by its author/director as he has a fantastic talent which should be encouraged and nurtured. Its on Sky TV in |uk at the moment so try to catch it if you can.

I saw this at the Waterfront Film Festival in Saugatuck, Michigan.

Jack O'Toole's beloved uncle Pete dies unexpectedly. After the wake, Jack decides to write a play based on the wake and to celebrate the life of his uncle. With the help of his fellow Boston friends, he attempts to put on the production of the play, even if it means having it performed in a little Irish Pub.

Written and directed by Dave McLaughlin and starring Joseph McIntyre, the wonderful film was a joy to watch. I loved the whole cast, they were well written and the actors did a great job. I was very impressed by Joseph McIntyre, he has come a long nicely since his early days as a member of New Kids on the Block. I also enjoyed the small role that Mike O'Malley played. The soundtrack was also amazing, the songs fit the story perfectly.

Dave McLaughlin, Joseph McIntyre, and Lance Greene were at the festival and they were all very nice. I hope this film gets a wider release after the festival circuit. I know a lot of people will enjoy the film and be entertained by it. It's a nice film about friends and family and how important they all are. Look for this film, see it, then spread the word.

I saw On Broadway at the IFF Boston in a packed theater. I was not expecting much going in but to my surprise I really enjoyed it. The story was uplifting with a good balance of comedy and drama, despite the fact the film starts out with and revolves around a fatal accident. It is the characters themselves that bring the film to life and carry it through to the end. Superb storytelling with both touching emotional moments and character dialogue that made me laugh throughout. In the end, the film has a redeeming quality that leaves you satisfied as you exit the theater. Even weeks later, I find myself repeating joke or piece of dialogue from the film that made me laugh. Probably the best independent film I've seen this year and definitely worthy of a place on the DVD rack.

Set in the Irish Catholic neighborhood in south Boston, on Broadway is a worthwhile film about family, friends and the courage to follow a dream - no matter what. I had the opportunity to see the film at the Phoenix film festival, where it was the Sundance Channel Audience Award Winner. I was moved by the relationships among the characters. The film is well acted and well cast. The soundtrack was perfect for the movie.

Dave McLaughlin, writer and director, was at the film festival. Not only is he very talented, but also a genuinely nice person.

For me, a movie where I can laugh and cry is a winner. On Broadway has it all. I hope this film gets wide release.