Cardboard Gangsters

I felt like I was looking through a time machine into the suburb I grew up in. Everyone trying to make a fast buck no matter what side of the law they fall on. No respect for cops. A major struggle. Lots of eccentric characters. Yes the acting is average but I think this adds to the gritty nature of the film. Worth the watch if your not a pompous moron keyboard warrior who thinks they're some kind of movie specialist.

Really I gave it a seven because it did so many things right. But the overall story was lacking. You can tell it had a low budget but it was done well. The main character did a good job and the camera work was gritty. The only scenes that didn't work for me were the dancing scenes but that might have just been me. Whoever directed this film should get more work. Lastly I dug the heavy dialect it made the movie all that more convincing.

I was surprised to see so many negative reviews for Cardboard Gangsters, I personally thought it was extremely impressive. Many of these council estate gangster movies are far too excessive and unrealistic, but this movie feels authentic and believable thanks to a really solid cast. John Connors' lead performance was particularly impressive and should be a sign of good things to come for him.

What impressed me most was its ability to capture the horrifying bleakness of life on these estates while never becoming too heavy or overbearing. Being ninety minutes long certainly helps, as does a strong soundtrack and engaging characters.

I appreciate that this type of story has been done many times and that there was nothing particularly original about the plot. But despite that, the combination of strong acting, powerful cinematography and excellent pacing makes this a thoroughly impressive production.

I felt compelled to give a review of this movie having read some of the others who slated it for no reason. For the budget that was allotted for it the show turned out to be one of the most enjoyable Irish movies ever made. It's dark and gritty from the start and doesn't hide from the audience the intended plot. The show fixates on the grand delusions of low end dealers in Dublin who really have no idea what they're getting in for. John as the central role plays his character to perfection and really holds the whole flick together. For a complete bunch of unknowns I take my hat off to them for being part of this rlly enjoyable drug based drama. Simple plot with expected finale but even though I knew what was coming that was OK. The film told us that from the offset. It doesn't hide itself from the plot. It's honest and gritty so just enjoy it for what it is.

I feel the 6.5 on IMDB is spot on. Its a great amateur film and very true to life. Very tense the whole way through, most of the dialogue was spot on and it really gave a glimpse into the lives and mindset of those living in darndale, one of the roughest suburbs of dublin. Loads of social problems but very close knit family units and a strong sense of community. Those horses actually do run about the place as well.

Well worth a watch.