Review by Nick_Dets

The Polish Brothers' "Jackpot" is a unique and well crafted, but unfortunately flawed little movie about determination and the weight carried that can cause one to let go of their dreams. It is as entertaining as it is long, but endless on creativity. It is a bizarre, unpredictable trip following a mysterious kareoke singer named Sunny Holiday and his even stranger counterpart Lester Irving. Both are pathetic in their obsessive desires, but also oddly motivated. Sunny was a family man who sets out to find himself, and a future singing at bars and lounges. He does have his success, mainly because of Irving's help. The film has an ironic, sarcastic tone, floating across the Mid-Western lounge scene introducing many wonderful characters. The Polish Brothers are excellent filmmakers and add a distinct humor and style to this original sophmore effort. At times the film seems aimless, and going in circles (or not anywhere at all)...it seems to go on for a very long length yet it manages to eventually take off with the help of a lot of clever ideas (notably the brilliant structuring). But the greatness in storytelling makes "Jackpot" a one of a kind winner. It is such beautiful and original filmmaking. Life on the road is captured with such a genuine feel as the two mysterious men drive about in their pink car and encounter many weird and appealing characters. The high definition cinematography is pretty amazing as well…reminiscent of Kubrick's "Eyes Wide Shut."