I saw this film a couple weeks ago at the Pittsburgh premiere. I had been waiting to see this movie ever since Sept. 04 when I was cast as an extra for the strip club scene. Luckily, I made the final cut of the film for a couple seconds. Anyway, the film itself is a unique mob tale that utilizes the acting talents of James Marsden, Giovanni Ribisi, and Brad Renfro. I was pleased with James Marsden's performance because it showcased his ability to carry a leading role in a movie instead of playing supporting characters like Cyclops in the X-Men movies or Lois Lane's husband in Superman Returns. Giovanni Ribisi's performance was commendable as well. Even though this was a decent mafia movie, it doesn't hold a candle to The Godfather Parts 1 & 2 or Goodfellas. There were a few problems with the film such as the unnecessary cameos of Val Kilmer and Tommy Lee. Also, I felt Lesley Ann Warren's performance as Aunt Tina was a little annoying and over-the-top. Lastly, my biggest complaint was that the story is supposed to occur in Philly, but in the background of one scene you can see a Budweiser billboard with the Pittsburgh Steelers logo on it, which is the absolute last thing you would ever find in Philadelphia. Despite these minor problems, the film is a well-made piece of cinema that shows the great acting abilities of the up-in-coming stars of Hollywood. The story is compelling as it weaves the loyalty of family and friendship with the seductiveness and deception of the crime world. This movie is definitely worth seeing.
Review of 10th & Wolf
