Send No Flowers

Directed by Fred Carpenter, Send No Flowers makes a smashing debut at the 16th annual Long Island International Film Expo winning six awards. Written by Lee Kolinsky and Michael A. Lovaglio "Send No Flowers" is one of the best indie gangland films I have seen in years. There is murder, intrigue and brutal beating in a strip club. This film is fast and densely exciting. Send No Flowers hooks you in early and does not disappoint, Sean Young is sensational playing a high-powered female boss who is just as ruthless in business and in love as men are. Supported by a cast that is smart and thrilling, the film also stars veteran actors Gianni Russo and Tony LoBianco and a fantastic surprising performance from comedian Jackie Martling. Send No Flowers is expertly shot and edited and gives the audience a simple plot that keeps you engaged until the credits roll. It's a film that demands to be watched again and again, although this movie resembles other gangster stories, I am looking forward to adding this movie to my DVD or Blu Ray collection.

I had the privilege of attending the premier for Send No Flowers last night at LIIFE. Fred Carpenter masterfully balances the drama,action and laughs while delivering what the audience wants in films of this genre. The stars shine bright here as the iconic Sean Young gives a riveting and restrained performance that brings strength in every scene. The familiar faces all bring their A game! Donna DeCianni gives an inspired performance as Ava and mesmerizes the audience! Russ Camarda is totally believable as the rival Mob Boss and protagonist of the film. This guy can flat out act! I enjoyed the film and will be looking forward to what this talented cast and crew has in store for the masses in the future. Fred Carpenter has his finger on the pulse of organized crime in cinema, Kudos Sir!

Sean Young makes a big comeback in this modest indie-mob picture. Without spoiling in anything, the plot is a simple revenge tale with enough fist-clinching moments to keep any fan of the genre satiated. Antonia Albano is one of those antihero characters that make this sort of movie enjoyable to watch on every level. She whacks her enemies with impunity and a bit of devilish pleasure to boot. Sean's performance is very even toned throughout but is balanced with some needed moments of feminine vulnerability -- this makes her very likable.

The supporting cast, including Russ Camarda, Gianni Russo, Jackie Martling, and Tony Lo Bianco all give well-rounded depth to their characters. Oddly, the best aspect of the film are the VERY believable "wise-guy" characters that appear throughout.

All-in-all, Send No Flowers is absolutely worth seeing.