Cidade Louca

I found myself quite emotionally involved with the characters in this film, which was a surprise considering I took a blind chance at Madtown with no expectations, analysis or prior reading of reviews, especially as the acting from the outset, outside the comedy club, was quite poor and there really isn't anything mad or comical about this film.

The title of this film is quite misleading as there's no real craziness until the misshapen twists at the end, and considering the main protagonist aspires to be a stand-up comedian, there's nothing particularly funny about it either, in fact, the whole film is rather somber, profound and really, surprisingly, quite loving.

The main juxtaposition that this file poses is the relationship between 'Denny' and his sister, who is quite angry, vindictive and scary, and his new relationship with his colleagues at the restaurant, and then seeing Denny transform into a caring and gentle individual, who is still confused by the shelled-off cocoon of his old self, and it was quite lovely seeing these shackles being broken away from, but with the ever-brooding and rearing presence of his sister after she is released from jail, impeding and affecting his freedom and ability to be happy, even denying himself some sweet and redeeming love in the process.

Madtown is mostly well acted, as well as being rather endearing and well thought out. OK, there are some plodding moments and I didn't find the comedy moments funny at all due to the sinister atmosphere always hanging around, but it's a well played and quite engrossing film nonetheless.

Great! Truly made an impact! Milo Ventimiglia is exceptional!

Good story with some good acting and characterizations far and beyond the usual celluloid. Milo Ventimiglia and Rachel Melvin are effective in their roles..

My husband and I liked this movie a lot. Although the storyline is tragic at its core, it had inspirational value that even through the darkest realities of life, love and hope can be sought and found in the most surprising simplistic aspects of life. I thought the acting quality was excellent. Great job actors and Charles Moore for putting together a great movie filmed in Cleveland Ohio.

Most of the places I've worked were small with bosses who treated me just like part of their family, perhaps more so than my own, so I could relate to that aspect of this story. Therefore I disagree with those who felt it wasn't realistic (and who cares if it weren't anyway, it's a story !)

I just felt like the timing was way off for everything. Several of the leads acted their parts expertly, but much of the rest of the cast was mediocre. Three weeks isn't long enough to get to know anyone to be treating them like long lost children I think. And I don't want to spoil the ending, so all I will say about that is the cops were some of the worst actors I've ever seen.