I wasn't expecting much from this film with its low rating, but the movie proved to be a rather intense dark drama that kept my interest from start to finish. All the lead actors here: Corey Stoll, Billy Crudup, Marin Ireland, and Yul Vasquez were quite solid in their roles, and there's a sharp screenplay from Noah Buschel who also directed the film.
Stoll is excellent in the role of Bud "The Saint" Gordon, a retired boxing champion who's facing hard financial times after his restaurant, in New Jersey, failed. While trying to regain some status and notoriety, he naively and tragically re-enters the employ of a diabolical local mobster, who lures him in with the promise of opening another eating establishment. At the same time, Bud is helping to train a young welterweight contender for a shot at the title.
Billy Crudup is terrific in the role of the local mobster J.J. Cook, and Yul Vasquez is absolutely chilling as Roberto, J.J.'s chief enforcer. Marin Ireland also gives a superb performance as Ellen, the long time girlfriend of Bud's who tries to keep their relationship together despite numerous obstacles.
Overall, I found this to be more of a dark psychological drama than anything else, with strong acting, writing, and direction. Plus, as mentioned it kept me engaged throughout.
Stoll is excellent in the role of Bud "The Saint" Gordon, a retired boxing champion who's facing hard financial times after his restaurant, in New Jersey, failed. While trying to regain some status and notoriety, he naively and tragically re-enters the employ of a diabolical local mobster, who lures him in with the promise of opening another eating establishment. At the same time, Bud is helping to train a young welterweight contender for a shot at the title.
Billy Crudup is terrific in the role of the local mobster J.J. Cook, and Yul Vasquez is absolutely chilling as Roberto, J.J.'s chief enforcer. Marin Ireland also gives a superb performance as Ellen, the long time girlfriend of Bud's who tries to keep their relationship together despite numerous obstacles.
Overall, I found this to be more of a dark psychological drama than anything else, with strong acting, writing, and direction. Plus, as mentioned it kept me engaged throughout.