The Take

The first time I saw this it blew me away. Since then it is probably one of my favourite movies of all time - why? The stylishness, the grittiness, the acting and the passion. You can tell that the people involved in the project really put their all into it and truly believed in telling a good story. The story itself is, on the surface, something we've heard of before - typical heist gone wrong yada yada. But what makes this so special is the clever character study and the evolution we see in John Leguizamo's character. This is one of his best roles - the acting is top notch. Rosie Perez is equally impressive in her role and the passion bleeds from the screen. You can tell Director Brad Furman wanted to stay true to the roots of the characters - he did go to Boyle Heights and filmed within the neighbourhoods wherein the story is set. On the commentary to the film he talks about the issues this raised due to guerilla style filming and some of the risks involved. The evolution of Leguizamo's character, a man just trying to make an honest living and provide for his family, who gets caught up in something outside of his control and has to fight through the ruins of the aftermath. It's truly wonderful to witness - the lawnmower scene and his anger is felt through the screen as he battles the scars he's been left with as a result of the events. Having seen Furman's other films, I still consider this his best for its unique nerve and sheer determination to make this project feel realistic and gritty. 9/10 - For the brutal and hardcore acting, cinematography and gritty realism - do not miss this!

The depictions and descriptions of the film can be read on numerous reviews here and elsewhere - but I have to say most of these writs seem determined to discredit a good film. I truly believe most can agree this is one of the best pieces of fiction best paralleling reality for L.A. filmed since (and including) Crash, Harsh Times, Training Day, etc.

Watching the deleted scenes, docu on filming, listening to commentary, and related media, they all reveal a true sense of wanting to make a non-Hollywood film with succession and an honest feeling of REALITY. Reading thru several armored car inside-jobs this film reveals a very authentic feel that deserves more credit than it is being given.

Outstanding performances by Cannavale, Perez and Gibson proving small films can bring the best out of someone. Regardless of the negative and technical reviews written about the end scenes and cultural inaccuracies - I have to give this film one of the most realistic portrayals I have seen in years centering around a man that is losing everything that makes him a man - and finds a way to regain it without being Jason Bourne or James Bond.

A worthwhile film that deserves a rent or maybe even a purchase for those from the areas of LA they film in…if anything - the sex scene is probably one of the most dedicated I have watched in some time - but at the same time shows a realism that mainstream cinema has missed for years…I will be recommending this title in my store for those looking for an authentic urban film.

The Take isn't one of those films you'll remember forever, it's plot simplistic, and script not without some flaws, but you will definitely remember the performances by the entire cast.

I always defended Leguizamo as a serious actor, while some claim he's always typecast. I knew he was talented, and he immediately sets the tension in this film. He does a great job in every scene. Rosie Perez was also intense, nice to see her always. Lequizamo drives the film, he's clearly not just a supporting actor. He deserves to be A-listed.

Another honorable mention is the directing of the film. I loved the Urban cinematography! East LA was never covered better. The old fashioned town is shown well, and gritty atmosphere adds to the already dark tale.

Overall, a good old school revenge tale, a modern western perhaps! 7/10

If I'd known this was categorically a drama I'd probably not have watched it. But I have a weakness for heist movies of any kind, and I really like Leguizamo, so I gave it a shot. Mistake. Now, the acting was good enough, especially from Rosie Perez, but the editing and choppy/shaky cinematography was beyond annoying, the music way too overdramatic, the action/suspense nonexistent save for the opening scene, and when it came down to it the movie was a recovery drama. As that, it wasn't too bad. Then comes the ending. The, uh, "climax." What were they thinking? A drawn out, fruitless chase scene. I'm not a spoiler reviewer which is tough here but I think I've made my point. The only way you should watch this is knowing it's a drama, and have the FF button at the ready.

The Take (2007) is a film I recently watched on Tubi. The story follows an armored truck driver who is taken hostage during a heist, shot, and left for dead. After surviving, he struggles with mood swings, chronic pain, and relentless police interrogation. As his mental state deteriorates and his family life suffers, he decides he may need to solve the crime himself to regain control of his sanity.

Directed by Brad Furman (The Lincoln Lawyer), the film stars John Leguizamo (Moulin Rouge), Tyrese Gibson (Baby Boy), Rosie Perez (White Men Can't Jump), Bobby Cannavale (Boardwalk Empire), and Roger Guenveur Smith (Do the Right Thing).

The cast is impressive, and the acting exceeds expectations, especially from John Leguizamo and Rosie Perez, whose portrayal of a strained marriage felt authentic and emotional. The setup is solid, and Leguizamo's mental unraveling is well-executed. The family dynamics are a strong point and help ground the film. Tyrese's character, however, felt unnecessary, and the full-circle ending leaned a bit too far into the unbelievable. Still, the strong performances and engaging character arcs keep your attention.

In conclusion, The Take is a fairly average film but worth watching if you're in the mood for something a little different. I'd score it a 6/10.