This is a somewhat cute little bar hopping movie that always seems like it's going to end badly, but due to amusing twists, never ends as one expects. It's interesting to see how the interaction of characters cause and negate problems between them.
Basically it's Christmas in New York and a rather unlucky actor owes ("Fatty") a fat bartender (and illegal bookie) money. The out of work actor decides to tell everyone he needs the money for his girlfriend's abortion. She, in turn, is the sister of another bartender who is known for selflessly lending everyone money. Hearing his sister is pregnant he goes off to call in a few debts. His pride and sympathy for others hamper his efforts. Some of the people involved in the plot appear to be somewhat unscrupulous, but thanks to the domineering and honest counterparts in their lives, they shrink to conform to the imposed morals.
Throughout the movie there is the threat that things could go horribly wrong at any time... but ingenious twists in the plot constantly surprise the viewer, neutralizing the threat and this is done rather ingeniously.
True, much of what goes on in between is totally TRIVIAL. I believe that is partly why this movie may get bad reviews, but the story is well tied up with unexpected twists... but it's HOW they get tied up that is mildly amusing. Not hilarious, but mildly amusing.
There are, however, a few pointless lengthy scenes, for example where the bartender meets up with old friends comparing wine around a table. This they could have cut, or used the time better to include other stories.
4/10 for interesting, unexpected and "different" plot twists.
Basically it's Christmas in New York and a rather unlucky actor owes ("Fatty") a fat bartender (and illegal bookie) money. The out of work actor decides to tell everyone he needs the money for his girlfriend's abortion. She, in turn, is the sister of another bartender who is known for selflessly lending everyone money. Hearing his sister is pregnant he goes off to call in a few debts. His pride and sympathy for others hamper his efforts. Some of the people involved in the plot appear to be somewhat unscrupulous, but thanks to the domineering and honest counterparts in their lives, they shrink to conform to the imposed morals.
Throughout the movie there is the threat that things could go horribly wrong at any time... but ingenious twists in the plot constantly surprise the viewer, neutralizing the threat and this is done rather ingeniously.
True, much of what goes on in between is totally TRIVIAL. I believe that is partly why this movie may get bad reviews, but the story is well tied up with unexpected twists... but it's HOW they get tied up that is mildly amusing. Not hilarious, but mildly amusing.
There are, however, a few pointless lengthy scenes, for example where the bartender meets up with old friends comparing wine around a table. This they could have cut, or used the time better to include other stories.
4/10 for interesting, unexpected and "different" plot twists.