P.J.

In these difficult times a thoughtful movie with an inspirational message is more than welcome. PJ delivers on both fronts. Howard Nash and John Heard's characters are both in search of solace and solutions and in the setting of a mental facility both struggle to find their individual paths. John Heard portrayal of Dr Shearson is a well crafted and believable performance. Howard Nash's PJ is a conflicted portrayal of man searching for meaning. Patrica Ray is masterful as "PJ's" girl friend. Vincent Pastore adds a comical spin and lightness to the darker portions of the movie. Neal Argo's music ties the elements of the film with a superb musical talent. Finally, Russ Emanuel's direction brings it all together with a fine touch for young director with great promise.

I recently saw this when it came out at the Laemmle. I have to say, not bad at all! For a low budget flick, the filmmakers really put a lot of creative effort to bring it to life. I was impressed with Patricia Rae and Vincent Pastore. Howard Nash did a great job as the guy with burned hands, holding his own against veteran actor John Heard. The director, whose this is his first feature, put together an ambitious effort, especially given the cast and the beautiful shots of New York City. I see he has another film on the horizon called Chasing the Green, looking forward to that. Oh, and there's the score too. It complements this film from beginning to end. I highly recommend people see this film, you won't be disappointed. Thanks for listening.

I have seen quite a few of Russ Emanuel's shorter films - and not only is he a dedicated and fantastic director, he really puts creativity at the forefront and produces some great cinematography supported by a strong plot and storyline. I am amazed to think that this was his first stab at a feature length film as the quality exceeds all expectations. He keeps us interested in the plot and characters from start to finish and allows you to delve right into the story. The characters are strong and the story is driven through them - and you immediately start sympathising and relating to them. This is a great piece of work and highly recommended if you are starting to get a bit tired of the same old same old mainstream films...!

PJ, based on the award-winning play, is about a man (known only as PJ), brought to a hospital with severe amnesia and apparent insanity. Armed with only the man's initials and a phone number held by someone who refuses to stay on the line, Dr. Shearson, the hospital's leading psychiatric specialist, sets out on a personal journey to find out who PJ is, and bring him back to reality.

The effect PJ has on Dr. Shearson and all the other people around him is poignant and far from the expected. As the film progresses, you are lured into the darkest, yet understandable reaches of each character, and you walk away wiping your eyes. Although I haven't seen Howard Nash in a film before, he is surely a rare, emerging talent, whose career is well-worth following.

For an independent film, I found that seeing so many known and talented performers such as John Heard, Robert Picardo, Patricia Rae, Vincent Pastore, Glynnis O'Connor and Hallie Kate Eisenberg very captivating, refreshing and entertaining.

PJ's original violin and orchestral music, composed by Neil Argo, is inspiring and spiritual - it evokes feelings of grace and redemption while intensifying the emotional bonds with PJ's characters.

This film is for anyone that believes there's good in the universe.

As you can tell my by name, I love films of all types. That includes big-budget studio films to low-budget independent films. For a $250,000 budget, this film really stood out. From a stellar cast including "'Home Alone' Dad" John Heard, "Star Trek: Voyager's" Robert Picardo, "Maria Full of Grace's" Patricia Rae, and "The Sopranos" Vincent Pastore, to a heartfelt effort by the crew, this is a winner all the way. I did some research and I see reviewers who have seen this film and film festivals this film has been in all seem to agree. I wasn't surprised that Patricia Rae WON Best Actress at a Miami Fest and that this was a Best Feature Film winner at the New Jersey Film Fest. I can't wait for this to come to DVD, hopefully soon.