1st watched 11/13/2006 - 5 out of 10(Dir-George Gallo): Interesting but somewhat bland dramedy about a winner of the first NY state lottery in 1976. The real winner, Frank Pesce, actually played a part in the movie as one of his brothers, was an associate producer, co-wrote the story and it was based on his book. So, he had a lot to do with this story being brought to the big screen. In a way, this kind of underminds the whole thing. The story is basically about how the lottery winner has a led a lucky life from day one, but he thinks that his luck has been turned around by a decision he made two hours before he won the money. It's told from his point of view as he is explaining to the cops that picked him up for vandelizing a church after the announcement was made that he won. His story has moments of comedy, heart-warming family moments, and of heartbreak as we journey thru some of his life up to this point. What doesn't work is the last hour where we're taken thru how the story becomes a positive one for him when he thinks it's negative. I realize this is a true story but it was difficult for me to buy into the conclusion. I consider this a negative on the filmmaker's part. I'm not doubting the story, I just don't think it was presented very well. If I get into any more details it would ruin it for those who want to watch the movie, so I won't. Anyway, what could have been a heartwarming human story just missed for me. OK entertainment, but that's all in my eyes.
Review of 29th Street
