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Charles Malik Whitfield, Kevin Interdonato, Joseph Sernio, Frankie Edgar, and Kirk Ponton in The Bastard Sons (2023)

User reviews

The Bastard Sons

16 reviews
5/10

Let down by the acting and the direction...

One of those "better than I expected, but not as good as I'd hoped" movies.

The story itself deserves some good will. The setup is good, the characters -- as written -- are an interesting bunch, and there are some "did not see that coming" moments.

Unfortunately, the characters -- as acted out on the screen -- are a mixed bag from barely passable through to mediocre and laughable as far as the acting goes. The acting here is about on a par with those small budget Omeleto shorts.

The directing is bland. The shoot outs and action scenes don't generate much excitement -- a fact underscored by some low budget special effects.

With better actors and some good directing, this could have been an interesting movie.
  • laplante-co-672-297856
  • Oct 4, 2024
  • Permalink
3/10

Honestly cringeworthy

The positive reviews for this film reek of people who worked on the film or friends of the director. This movie is bad and not even funny bad, it is cringeworthy. You want to watch a bunch of middle aged men who aren't hard pretend to do the tough guy act? Watch this. The performances are poorly done and thus it comes off as cringe. There is one funny part of this movie and that is the shoot out scene where the acting is at its worst. Looks like they couldn't even get blanks for the movie as the muzzle flash is the horrible post production effects. You also have the actors pretending to shoot the weapons in overly exaggerated manners with horrible camera work. This is like a worse version of the middling movie Four Brothers and doesn't even touch Sopranos.
  • Fiercesome_Fool
  • Jul 15, 2024
  • Permalink
1/10

Absolute garbage!

There is no way the positive reviews are real! They were definitely either friends or paid for. This is easily one of the worst movies I have ever seen in my entire life. No dialogue, horrible acting, and most likely filmed on an iPhone. Nothing made sense from start to finish and the camera work literally made me dizzy. There was nothing original about this movie whatsoever. It's shocking to me that streaming services will even carry movies like this. This is a good example of a film that you have to thoroughly check out before renting. We as viewers cannot just go by a quick glance of the reviews next to the title. I never leave reviews for movies I watch, but I felt so incredibly ripped off that I felt I had to. Do not waste your time or money!
  • ElmCityJosh
  • Jan 6, 2024
  • Permalink
1/10

I WANT MY $6.99 BACK!!! The best part was the end...like when I turned it off!!!

This is the worst movie I've seen in a long time. The plot is thin and a rip off of classics. There is zero character development, chemistry, or good dialogue. It's a redone story and redone poorly! The acting is poor and the action scenes were trash! Anyone giving this great reviews has to be planted. No way!!! It was community college level and that's being kind. HORRIBLE...skip it!

I can't even begin to explain all the reasons this movie didn't work and it a hack job. Independent films need to be thought provoking and original. This movie was neither and was below low budet...no budget! JUST PLAIN BAD!!!
  • Movieguy219
  • Jan 6, 2024
  • Permalink
8/10

True jersey movie

If you dig gangster movies and you're a Jersey native then this is the movie for you. So go grab your self a pork roll egg and cheese a good whiskey and check this one out.

Directed with taut precision and style, the film dives deep into the murky world of organized crime and explores the complex dynamics of family and loyalty.

"Bastard Sons" is an unmissable gangster movie that will keep you enthralled throughout. With its stellar performances and gripping narrative, the film is sure to leave you captivated and entertained. Prepare to be taken on a thrilling journey filled with violence, suspense, and complex themes of family and loyalty.
  • mjr_woody
  • Dec 10, 2023
  • Permalink
1/10

Potential Unrealize by Arthouse Focus.

  • Haleyun
  • Dec 11, 2024
  • Permalink
10/10

Absolutely Amazing Masterpiece

I am a terrible movie watcher, fall asleep all the time. This movie not only kept my attention start to finish, I was disappointed when it ended. It was captivating from beginning to end. The cast and characters were perectly set. The story line was different from the day to day plot line. Really hoping for a sequel, maybe a prequel. Very well written and a seriously unexpected plot twist. There is a lot of depth and potential for this movie to spin into so many other opportunities. I highly recommend this movie. It will not disappoint other than when it ends, because you just want more of this great script and cast.
  • justinecutrona
  • Jul 29, 2023
  • Permalink
8/10

This is the next Film Franchise with Boundless Potentia!

"The Bas+ard Sons" is an exceptional cinematic experience, thanks to Kevin and his talented team. The gripping story line they've crafted is both compelling and thought-provoking, keeping viewers on the edge of their seats throughout. The surprise ending adds an extra layer of intrigue, leaving audiences with lingering excitement and a desire for more. Kevin's direction and the team's attention to detail truly shine, making this movie a standout. The potential for a prequel or sequel has me eagerly anticipating more from this compelling universe. Moreover, the film showcases New Jersey as a fantastic backdrop, raising hopes for it to be the setting for the next great series featuring the Garden State. Kudos to Kevin and the entire team for delivering an unforgettable cinematic experience!
  • iphoneme-27403
  • Dec 11, 2023
  • Permalink
8/10

A film that leaves you wanting more

As a film fanatic that has watched movies from shorts, to indies, to those summer blockbusters, this was truly a pleasant surprise. When you know a project doesn't have a ton of money behind it you have to focus more on the story, the writing, acting, & all the other little pieces that move it along. By the end this is a film that leaves you wanting more & hopefully if there is a sequel it gets that bigger budget it rightfully deserves. Think Four Brothers meets the Knockaround Guys (if you haven't seen those films, you should) & if you aren't a fan of that genre that's ok, this film has multiple twists & reveals that would satisfy the "who done it" & thriller crowds alike. 8/10.
  • mvlee-05198
  • Dec 11, 2023
  • Permalink
9/10

One hell of a ride!

I was quite lucky to see this film on the big screen at a local screening. I've always been a story-driven person, and I was pleasantly surprised to find myself completely immersed in the story of this film, from start to finish.

What makes this film so immersive and gripping in addition to its brilliant writing; it's in the amazing sound design and score, the direction which puts you in the middle of the action and emotions of each scene, and the talented cast who brought all of the characters to life. This film is sure to move and surprise even the most stoic of viewers.

I'm usually a very tough sell on movies of similar themes, but I can honestly say, I left the theater wanting more. I'm hoping for a sequel (or prequel) story, because the characters are so darn good, I can't help but want to know more of their stories. I highly and enthusiastically recommend this film!
  • itsjustangela
  • Dec 10, 2023
  • Permalink
8/10

'The Bastard Sons' is a force to be reckoned with.

There has been a plethora of Gangster/Crime/Mobster films and tv shows released over the years. From Scorsese's classics to Pulp Fiction to The Sopranos. There's also an underbelly of garbage out there. Thankfully this film delivers the goods!

The Bastard Sons lives on it's own. It's unique. The characters are very real. It feels like I am watching everything unfold in real time. There are a few scenes in the second act that make your blood pressure rise and heart rate shoot up. It's that kind of ride.

And the ending...you won't see it coming.

Be sure to check it out if you are a fan of the genre.
  • SmileInYourSleep609
  • Jan 5, 2024
  • Permalink
8/10

A gangster flick we've been waiting for since the Sopranos ended

In the tradition of gangster flicks like the Departed and films about brotherly bonds like 4 Brothers comes a meditation on family, fatherhood and the effects of raising children around violence and the criminal underworld. Written directed and starring Kevin Interdanato as the defacto boss of a small criminal empire in North Jersey, The Bastard Sons dives headfirst into a gritty story about revenge, greed and murder. The story and acting were all top notch and my only complaint is that the ending left me wanting a sequel! If you are looking for a no holds barred, bloody, action packed crime drama, look no further.
  • cicalese40
  • Dec 11, 2023
  • Permalink
10/10

Interdonato & Sernio hit it out of the park!

Gritty, suspenseful, intense and shocking. This movie is everything you want to see in a mobster movie without all the stereotypes! Filmed mainly in Toms River and Asbury Park New Jersey, the scenery is authentic. Locals will recognize places such as North Beach and The Wonder Bar and other viewers will see the "real" Jersey Shore. The acting is phenomenal. The on scene chemistry between the characters felt very familial. The music and videography techniques helped the viewer "feel" the intensity of each scene's intentions. The storyline flowed seamlessly. This movie left me wanting more. It's a 10 from me!
  • daynaslynch
  • Jan 5, 2024
  • Permalink
9/10

Fresh & Unique Take On A Familiar Story

I caught this in theaters in Chicago today. The Bastard Sons stays away from the tired old mobster cliche and gives us a new take on a familiar story. For me it worked a lot more than it didn't.

There are two characters in this film I would have liked to see more of but understand the reasons that wish didn't come true.

A lot of the complaints was the shaky camera shots during the fight scenes. For me it added realism to the scene. Like watching a war reporter shoot what's in front of him.

Frankie Edgar's debut as an actor was cool to see as a fan of his in the cage. Hope he continues to act.

Everything has it's flaws as does The Bastard Sons but there is a lot of good in this. It was a fun flick. Go in with an open mind and know you won't be seeing Paulie Walnuts flapping his gums.

This is a different kind of gangster movie.
  • ThisIsNotAnExit818
  • Jan 11, 2024
  • Permalink
9/10

The Bastard Sons..... This isn't a Disney movie!

Raw, gritty, real, grisly; this one ranks up there with the best of the mobster genre. Double-crosses, betrayals, and revenge; what needs to be done to survive in the mob life. Loyal to each other and out of necessity, a rough Jersey crew goes to war on several fronts. There are plenty of twists peppered with a few comical moments cumulating in an unexpected ending....for everyone. The writer leaves subtle hints throughout the movie that the ever calculating Vincent Damiano, the main character, uses to uncover which allies are his mortal enemies. He only trusts his instincts and himself, he's alone. Unlike other movies this one doesn't leave loose ends, by the time the credits hit the screen you understand the intricacies of the plot. Is this edge-of-the seat thriller worth a watch? Oh yeah.
  • petejoyce-81131
  • Dec 14, 2023
  • Permalink
10/10

NY/NJ talent at its best!

Thrilling, entertaining, dark and gritty for sure. Some local hot spots in New Jersey! The bastard sons is full of wit, memorable characters, and crazy vioIent action scenes.

Loyalty, betrayaI, corruption, and redemption, all the things you'd expect from an east coast mafia. The whole crew is made up of up and coming actors, who deliver excellent performances and bring their characters to life. Certainly has its own twist and style, making it a unique and enjoyable experience

Excellent performances all around. It is a must-see for anyone who loves a good story, a good laugh, and a NY/NJ attitude. 10/10 for sure 💪
  • carlbeams
  • Feb 25, 2024
  • Permalink

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