Transatlantic Coffee (2012) User Reviews

Sweet and sour

[ephraimrosenbaum · 6/10 · 19 May 2017]

So... the negative first, because that is how I roll. This movie is a mess. The writing is all over the place. The supporting actors, many of them, seem like they have never actually acted in a movie--or anywhere else, for that matter-before.I would give this movie tow stars. But! One thing absolutely saves this thing, and that is the lead. Pinassi is just stupidly good. I'd be very curious to see him on stage, because his subtle, nuanced performance plays perfectly on the big screen. Wonder if that would transfer to a live performance. Just... the stillness. The ability of this guy to express so much in a *look*. That is rare.

Whatever, I hope to see more from Pinassi. Will be on the lookout.

Good

[sashafindland · 7/10 · 4 May 2012]

This is supposed to be a character driven movie, but the main character seems too twitchy and bizarre to relate to at times. Pinassi plays a man-child called Alex that falls for a teen girl from London. Alex is a loser with no life, which SHOULD make us all relate to him on some level.

Overall, this is not a Hollywood cookie-cutter movie, which is the exciting part. It does many times have really sincere and personal moments that are very enjoyable. The ending offers a huge impact. I give the film some credit for being different and original with some scenes of fantastic performances and direction.

A tale of trauma, loneliness and colourful love.

[amypriestreviews · 7/10 · 3 December 2012]

From the first few seconds into the opening sequence of Transatlantic Coffee, I was hooked. The beautiful shots, the soulful melody of Alix Paige and expert use of lighting all blend together perfectly in setting the tone for this wonderful New York original.

We notice straight away that the man sat in a carefree New York City blues bar is troubled. His edgy disposition accompanied by jarring images of distant or recent memories flash on and off screen against the tempo of the music, portrays a man burdened with repressed thoughts that are invading his mind. As the opening sequence ends with a very high pitched drawn out noise, a speeding train races past a block of apartments, sharply bringing us back to Alex's morose reality.

The film begins quite slowly, establishing Alex (Kevin Pinassi) as a depressive, drunken man whose choice of employment, (providing entertainment as a clown), contrasts with his disdain for life and sullen nature. His longing desire to find someone that will allow him to escape from the constant loneliness he has submitted himself to, is where his story begins.

Over the course of this film, we're given the opportunity to tread in the footsteps of this lonely man's quest to feel love again. Set just a month after 9/11, Alex's story serves as a metaphor for the trauma New York citizens dealt with after the attack. The city itself; grey and in stasis, Alex also seems somewhat out of touch from reality. His hostility towards life, towards his family and his only friend are a result of his disconnection from society.

Early into the film we discover Alex has met a teenage girl from London online and has asked her to stay with him in The Big Apple. Mandie (Rachel Marie Lewis) is a high spirited stripper with a lust for living life to the fullest; a juxtaposing element to Alex's depressive lifestyle. Nevertheless, the couple spend several weeks together, bonding over different aspects of each other's personalities, and things begin to look up for Alex. The film however, constantly reminds us of how conflicting the individuals are.

A very poignant scene shows Alex and Mandie sat awkwardly making small talk to break the ice after weeks and weeks of relying on the social barrier of internet messaging. Alex, not wanting to give much of himself away, is hesitant to talk; Mandie on the other hand, makes herself comfortable as soon as she enters his apartment. As the airy tension between them rises, the music in the background becomes more dominant and Alex begins to describe how he associates music to memories, he feels that "music is the one way you can capture a moment" – this, to me, is just the epitome of his character and of the film. Music is very apparent in Transatlantic Coffee; it consistently sets the tone, the atmosphere and the mood of each character and each scene highlighting how Alex sees each moment of his life.

Alongside the usage of musical and visual cues, Transatlantic Coffee also utilises the concept of individual perception to explore another predominant theme; that of Alex and Mandie's attraction to one another despite their rather overwhelming differences. Alex, during a memorable moment whilst they stand looking over Manhattan at night, tells Mandie he is colour blind. Mandie responds with "I'm so sorry...it must be horrible living in a city like New York and not being able to enjoy the colour and vibrancy of it all" to which Alex states, "Not really, it's all I've ever known" – from this brief conversation we get to understand the characters a little better. With Alex's depressive nature and Mandie's colourful outlook on the world, they are 'different in their own way'.

As the film progresses differences melt between the two. Mandie paints a picture for a close friend back home in England, when Alex sees this painting he realises he can see colour. He associates this new profound ability with the love he holds for Mandie and is therefore awakened from his black and white world; this reinforces Alex's need for her to be a part of his life.

The sexual tension between the two characters is admitted very early on, however Alex is hesitant to act upon his desires. The film pushes you to feel how real every situation is throughout the story and how the relationship shared between the two, is full of genuine emotion. Every glance, touch and embrace feels so honest and meaningful that all your senses tell you it's real.

This is a beautiful independent picture directed and written by Erik Peter Carlson. It focuses on visual energy and atmosphere created by spectacular cinematography, scenic locations, choreography and costume designs. The script highlights how beautiful life can be yet with the help of a well structured narrative; the storyline illustrates the ugliness that sometimes can creep through. The subtle flashbacks from Alex's memories and out of place lines were suggestive to the films conclusion, nevertheless they were almost unnoticeable. An almost flawless motion picture, Transatlantic is an independent wonder, enriched with fantastic colour, unforeseen twists and occasional eroticism.

Just in case your expecting something.

[newmans · 4/10 · 27 September 2013]

What a terrible disappointment. What's with the high ratings and talk? Is everyone related to someone in the production company? It was slow and unfocused, I kept hoping for an ending that would explain what all the chatter about this was for, it didn't come. It was a cop out, out of someone's high school textbook, like "Here we are, now what do we do? Oh yes, end it with a psycho delusional thing." Did they even take Psychology 101 or step into therapy session? I don't think so. If you expect something from the 42% perfect ratings?, give me a break, sorry. Their last minute discovery outshines everyone else, Rachel Marie Lewis, should do well.

A classic tale of boy meets girl, boy falls in love with girl....only the boy, is a 41 year old clown, the girl, a teenage stripper from London.

[rbecker-9 · 8/10 · 14 February 2012]

In this exploration of profound loneliness and loss, Erik Peter Carlson miraculously has made a life-affirming, even inspiring film. Seamless camera work, gorgeous art direction/cinematography and truly challenging scenes help to bring us deep into the mind of an eccentric man who chooses an eccentric way to heal from his extraordinary trauma. Carlson has made a movie that subtly captures the essence of what we all love about cinema...that singular carnival ride that transports us into someone else's life experience.

My name is Randy Becker and I run NexTV Entertainment. We get thousands of submissions each year from emerging artists trying to make a mark on the list of significant industry players that we bring to our panels. TRANSATLANTIC COFFEE stands out not just because of the cohesive and compelling aesthetic or the challenging and topical subject matter, but because, at its core, it tells us a great story...one well worth experiencing.

-Randy Becker NexTV Entertainment

An indie gem

[daltonjames38 · 8/10 · 21 February 2012]

A dark and hypnotic drama that simultaneously explores the ecstasy of new found love and the wrenching pain of loss. Transatlantic teeters on the edge of a fever dream, but never falls off giving it a thrilling undercurrent, even when its pacing is deliberate and almost meditative. All of this while exhibiting an eroticism and honesty about sex that is all but nonexistent in mainstream American cinema. And I would be remiss if I didn't point out the beautiful and hardened lines of New York City serve as the perfect backdrop to the story. Transatlantic Coffee is another reminder that independent film is alive and well and worth finding.

It's Never What You Expect.

[pamela_russell6 · 10/10 · 25 February 2012]

It's very difficult to summarize what "Transatlantic Coffee" is all about. It's a very complex film that engages heavily on an intricate character. Let me just say this from the start - it is not for people wanting to see a sweet love story. End of story.

I saw the film at a festival in New York after reading information on the film through the festival's web site. It seemed like a very odd story, which is something I'm always attracted to. I didn't have a date, so I went alone ...which probably ended up being a good thing.

As I prepared for the movie to start, I realized I knew nothing about this film. This is rare for me, as I am a film review buff. I really didn't know if I was going to laugh, cry or be seriously depressed. The theater was pretty full, as I believe it was the first evening the film was screening at the fest. I wondered if any of these strangers around me knew anything I didn't about what we were all about to see. The lights went out ...then, all of the emotions mentioned above occurred, and then some.

The film is slow paced, which I believe was done on purpose as it is driven primarily by Kevin Pinassi's performance as Alex. Let me tell you something, he is brilliant. I can't imagine anyone else playing that part after watching his performance. I was hoping he'd be available for a question and answer after the screening, but he wasn't. He knocked my socks off, and I have yet too find them.

The mood of the film can only be described as creepy, dark and at times, very disturbing. This is accomplished by the amazing performances, the truly unique and unpredictable direction and writing of Erik Peter Carlson, and the dream-like cinematography through the film. Carlson has a way of making you feel the film will go in one direction, but like a sly magician, takes you somewhere you never knew existed.

90 minutes into Transatlantic, there were times where I was shocked, confused and sometimes appalled by what was shown on screen, but at the same time, I was completely involved. I had no idea whatsoever what was going to happen next. By the 90 minute mark, I said to myself "I like this film". Then came the final act, which was not only a huge surprise to me, but obviously to the rest of the audience as well. There were plenty of gasps and seat shifting. At this point, I said to myself "I really like this film." I can't remember another time where there was so much discomfort in a room full of people.

The lights came up as the credits rolled ...and nobody moved. I don't think a single person left until the final credit faded off the screen. At this time, the woman next to me who was with a date, muffled, "Well, that was brilliant."

There's a lot to watch and understand in Transatlantic Coffee for a picture with very few characters and settings. It's very vague (which will be annoying to some) and makes you work very hard in interpreting what you just watched. This surely will not be for everybody. Don't leave upset thinking you missed something that the others in the theater caught on to - you didn't. For the ones who liked it the first time around, I guarantee you'll want to see it again so you can pick up on the small pebbles Carlson tossed around, purposely making it the task of the audience to make their way home.

Some will like this challenge, others simply will not. I did.

Erik Peter Carlon's "Transatlantic Coffee" is nothing shy of original

[paul-simmons27 · 10/10 · 27 February 2012]

It's a breath of fresh air to see a different approach from a young filmmaker. Carlson has made a movie that you'd not expect from a first time writer and director. It's put together with slow scenes, long takes and very few cut aways. It explores themes and ideas that I could easily see being cut away on the editing room floor if it was handled by a studio. Because of it's love budget roots, I can only believe that Carlson called the shots. There's no other way that many of these scenes would have ever made it otherwise. Studios are not this brave.

Rachel Marie Lewis plays a young gal who comes to New York from London on a blind date to meet our main character, Alex, who is played by Kevin Pinassi. Both actors do a stellar job in creating the right atmosphere. The challenge for these actors clearly must've been Carlson's directing style. Scenes sometimes last for minutes on end without any cuts, creating an almost stage play feel. In fact, I could easily see this being adapted to an off Broadway play.

One of my favorite things about this picture is the original score. Again, it is completely unexpected like everything else in the film. It's truly dreamy and assists the overall feel of the picture in conjunction with the photography, the performances and the writing.

The film runs 104 minutes which seem to go by pretty quickly, with only a few times I feel it could've been a little faster paced, however, I think if this was the case, we would loose the character study that Carlson was trying to produce, and succeeded at accomplishing.

The film reminded me very much of a European film, with it's massive amount of talking heads and simple, yet very effective direction. I also believe this was accompanied by the art direction and costume design, which made me feel I was watching something that was either a period piece or a French film from the 70's that slipped through my fingers.

I really hope the film goes wide so others can experience this film. I believe that whether you like it or not, you'll walk away with something to talk about. It really sticks with you for days. I can't wait to see what these guys come up with next. A must see!

Dark, Moody, Original and Highly Convincing.

[martin_n · 9/10 · 12 March 2012]

Watched this film on Prescreem.com the other night after hearing about it from a Twitter friend. I usually don't do reviewes on movies but I thought this film deserves to be heard.

In an American market of highly commercial, audience appealing pictures with typical subject matters, special effects and bland characters (just look at today's movie listings) this film takes all of that and flushes it. It's obvious that the filmmakers had a vision and went with it, not worrying about what the American public is familiar with. This film is something to be experienced and I mean that.

As the film starts, you'll notice the unique way the story will be told, with it's long takes, allowing the actors on screen to become real. The writing is deep and has so many moments of "Wow, that is so true". The actors in the film, Kevin Pinassi and Rachel Marie Lewis, whom I have never seen before on screen. do a tremendous job. They are fearless in their approach.

As other reviews mentioned on this page, the music and visuals are something you usually don't see in a low budget movie. Everything down to the costumes and the setting of the main character's apartment are so real, you feel you've been living there yourself by the end of the movie.

The direction and writing of the movie is very well done. The ending, although a great surprise to me, may have others catching on somewhat early in the film, but the way the story is told, the way it's designed as a whole, simply convinces you that these are real people, in a real world, experiencing real subject matters. I give this credit to the director, Erik Peter Carlson and the producers who have accomplished something that proves that independent film is something you need to be involved in, for no other reason than to realize that there is much more than special effects in cinema.

The movie is very intense with scenes that make you shiver, for many reasons. However, I never feel it's done in bad taste, but to bring you into the moment and into the lives of these characters, mostly the main character.

To conclude; it's an extremely well done movie that has all of the elements any great movie should contain; a great story, compelling characters, it stimulates many emotions, has the compelling "wow" factor and forces you to watch it again. Great job.

Reinventing

[johan-andersson1 · 8/10 · 4 April 2012]

This is a different kind of film than most big dramas, and is likely to be remembered as the director's quiet, breakthrough indie film that is more widely appreciated as the years go on, and his work is more widely recognized. . But if anything, it is a powerful demonstration of true range, and a hint at the great works that are yet in his future.

Kevin Pinassi is quite good when he's within his element though, really shines when he interacts with costar Rachel Marie Lewis or when he is left to be the focus on screen, which occurs multiple times in the film. Marcel Torres, who plays the best friend, does an OK job being the comic relief, however it never feels forced, which is a breath of fresh air.

Carlson has taken the extraordinary risk of handcrafting a film specifically to showcase the unique talent of his cast, revolving it around characters that absolutely no one else could pull off. The risk has paid off marvelously. This film extracts the best performances of any indie film I've seen in recent time, while drawing us in with an odd - and oddly touching - romantic tragedy. A delight to watch.

Watched and then watched again.

[travis_phillips · 10/10 · 3 April 2012]

Transatlantic Coffee is a movie currently on prescreen.com. I found out about the site from a friend who was a member of the site. My second rental was Transatlantic Coffee. I watched it with my girlfriend (because she thought it looked cute) one evening and needless to say, it was not what we expected. Maybe because "we" as American audiences are expecting something predictable. We thought the movie would be filled with fart jokes ...yadda, yadda and yadda. Well, we were wrong. In fact, the humor is kept to a minimum as this movie is surely nothing to chuckle about.

Alex is a clown for hire in Brooklyn, who is left alone from a separation, divorce or something else "we" as an audience are unsure of until the time is right. He finds comfort by having an online relationship with a much younger girl in London, who eventually comes to visit him in New York. All sounds cute and fluffy, right?

The film is so very real with it's look, feel, sound and acting. After the first few minutes you feel you are there with these characters. There are so many small surprises and visual elements that make this a movie you need to watch again to fully appreciate, which we did since prescreen allows you up to 48 hours to re watch the rental. However, even if they didn't, we'd most surely pay the extra money to rent again. We may have waited a week or so, as watching this heavy movie back to back would be, well ...heavy!

I want to compare the film to another, but it's really difficult. On the outside, it looks like a foreign film, but in actuality, it's very much a universal vision. Director Erik Peter Carlson captures a feeling so well, it is literally impossible not to be captivated from the first few frames.

The performances are outstanding, the music is wild and the feeling that is left with you at the end of the movie is something I, and yes, my girlfriend have not experienced in many moons. An A + for such bravery in scenes that are very hard to watch, yet are impossible to turn away from.

Polarizing

[joelien-reece · 9/10 · 18 April 2012]

There are only a handful of indie films that have a distinct lasting affect on the audience--these are movies you either get, or you don't. And if you don't get it, you won't hate it, but simply find it too odd for your liking. Open minded viewers need only apply, and that's certainly the case with "Transatlantic Coffee." I remember leaving the theater absolutely shocked, and not just because of the events on screen. I was shocked that I found the movie so intelligent and oddly entertaining. The actors surely must have felt that, after reading the screenplay.

The subject matter is truly unsettling at times. Transatlantic Coffee, even with it's extreme modest budget, is a masterpiece of irony (even in the title), and finds humor in the most unusual and downright bizarre circumstances. You will not see another movie like it. Guaranteed. And fair warning--you could very well be confused by it's approach and reasoning.

Alex, a forty-something working clown in New York City, finds romance with a young English girl.

[mhd939 · 9/10 · 14 March 2012]

This lyrical, poetic film is a visual delight and a thespian triumph -- an understated but screaming manifestation of the writer/director's inner dream/nightmare. Most of the burden of his vision is carried superbly on the shoulders of Kevin Pinassi, who plays Alex, a forty- something working clown who in the wake of 911 stumbles into an unlikely online romance with a young English woman (excellently played by Rachel Marie Lewis) which becomes real (or does it?). Pinassi is able to inhabit this character much the way Ingmar Bergman's actors channeled their director's vision of deep down raw emotion with the slightest facial movements, a twitch of the brow, a tightening of the mouth or the tilt of a glance, giving the audience a living text from which to read the mind of an introspective confused soul. Carlsen and Pinassi's Alex is a pilgrim from some other universe stranded on earth not knowing which way is home and which way is disaster. This a a unique and personal work of art which grabs you and holds your attention. We feel we're inside a mind which is continually at odds with itself trying to decide, is this world real or not? And isn't that the conundrum which takes place in every human being?

If you like something different.

[donaldheath1956 · 9/10 · 1 March 2012]

After seeing it for the second time, I really got it. I find myself wanting to watch it again and again. Has some weak points but these are charming in their own way. Love the music and acting. The director is also the writer which shows, in this very detailed study. Would recommend if you are not offended easily by provocative, yet beautiful scenes.

Overall it's a stunning piece of work from the filmmakers. The male and female lead are very fun to watch, making the length of the film go by pretty quickly. It has an ending that I have yet to compare to another film - a surprise unlike anything I've seen in recent time.

It's surely a film I'd add to my collection. Looking forward to seeing it again. Do yourself a favor and see it, you won't regret it.

Storytelling is at its when it breaks your heart

[jonathan_flynn · 10/10 · 27 April 2012]

Erik Peter Carlson's emotionally devastating romantic drama Is Transatlantic Coffee.

The performances from Pinassi and Lewis are astounding. Raw, believable and filled with anguish. Both actors deserve nominations for their work in a film that has them bearing the entirety of their souls, especially Pinassi. Carlson's screenplay is outstanding.These characters do not feel scripted; from the flustered, inarticulate ways that they argue to the frank and sometimes painfully erotic fashion in which they show their love. Alex (Pinassi) seems brutally, unflatteringly like a real person, and the inevitable tragedy that befalls is all the more upsetting because of this. Perhaps most impressive is that Alex begins the film as a particularly unlikable individual, but the phenomenal work from the two leads ensures that by the stories end, we want nothing more than for things to work out all right.

Carlson employs a minimalistic directorial style in order to match the simple, real world story that he is trying to tell. Using predominately hand-held cameras, or very still, long takes, the writer-director highlights the unremarkable nature of his characters; their vulnerabilities, hopes and frustrations.

It does not seem like a spoiler to reveal that the ending of Transatlantic Coffee is not a happy one. To anyone who watches more than five minutes of this film, it is all too apparent that the conclusion is inevitable, and that all efforts to change things are in vain. (500) Days of Summer brought a bittersweet poignancy to a tale of breaking up; by comparison, the story of Alex and Mandie is merely bitter. But while the movies outlook on love is a sad one, its astonishingly real aesthetic, intensely human performances and heart-breaking emotional effect is simply undeniable.

This is an excellent movie...but get two popcorns to watch it twice!

[simplyyred · 10/10 · 15 May 2012]

A friend of mine on facebook told me to check out this movie. Not knowing what to expect I figured sure why not do a friend a favor then at least I would have something to say on his wall the next day. Well, can I just say... I loved this movie! I loved the setting, the characters, the connection to NY in 2001, the way the mind works to survive everyday life. The lead character Mandie reminded me of Amy Winehouse who fascinated me and I thought the lead actor who played Alex was exceptional! Most of all I loved the twist and I had no idea it was based on a true story which intrigues me even more. There's a scene in this move that makes the restaurant scene of Meg Ryan from "When Harry Met Sally" seem like child's play in comparison. I think I ate my popcorn really slow at that point and probably missed my mouth even. Go see this movie and I guarantee it's one you will want to see twice!! And BTW The writer is very cool too! I had the pleasure to interview him over a month later. I love seeing real dreams/ideas come to life. Good for you Erik.

Haunting

[bruce_osullivan1 · 9/10 · 27 April 2012]

The character is nicely presented, the lead shifts from a completely explainable point of view (in his loss) to a completely uneven person.

Seldom have I seen a performance by anyone that was as convincing. He actually became this extremely tortured soul. Much like, "Monster's Ball" and "Leaving Las Vegas", this was a movie I hesitated to watch. When I did see it I was drawn into the pain and chaos of the character's life. It did not seem overly sentimental or slanted to make me sympathize with the situation. As various aspects of the character's background was revealed it became clear that this was a person desperate to have a little happiness in his life regardless of what has happened in the past or the cost to themselves or others.

Sometimes love, and even sex, is what drives the comfort and security of a man, even after a devastating loss. This is not welcomed by society, but this film energizes these thoughts clearly and without worry of what people may think or want to see.

Brutal but yet addicting

[Sean-connelly-358-728434 · 9/10 · 30 April 2012]

Though not a fan of films like this usually, this is an exception! Erik Peter Carlson takes what seems will be a cliché concept to a fresh, new and unpredictable design. A film where you don't point and laugh, but sit back and feel sympathy towards the man. Alex is portrayed as someone you want to distant yourself from, but wish him a safe turnaround.

Through good writing and great acting, you get connected as you see Alex's adventure into his new love, Mandie, and confront his reflection, played by Marcel Torres as Ronnie.

The cinematography stands out, excellent direction, wonderful, unique soundtrack and everything in between. Great film if you feel like thinking a little tonight.

Transatlantic Coffee Review By Alexandrew from Itsyourshow.com

[alexandrew442 · 8/10 · 13 May 2012]

I really liked this movie. It was covered with twists and turns and was something that you had to wrap your mind around. It was easy for me to pay attention as that is necessary to follow the plot line. It really came down to almost a Brian Depalma type of movie. It combined the sexy scenes with the macabre and had some mildly dark humor. I was not sure how to embrace Alex as a character but that added to my interest in the film. They pushed the envelope a bit and I was on the verge of uncomfortable with one of the scenes as I think most will attest to after watching it, however it did play an important role in the story.

I would give it two thumbs up. This is a movie you really do need to see twice. You will want to catch what you missed the first time around as the twist at the end of the movie requires you to reach back to previous parts of the story line. Go see This Movie!

Alexandrew Lee Radio Talk Show host for "It's Your Show"

Another big reason to see small films

[Lsigmore · 10/10 · 3 May 2012]

I did not think I would enjoy the film because of its theme, but I found it to be touching and absorbing. It was a film we talked about after it was over.

Transatlantic Coffee is a small film that packs a big punch. While outwardly simplistic, the film addresses deep, hidden emotions in a beautiful way. The casting is superb. The direction is breathtaking. The cinematography is the best I've seen in any indie film. The music is perfect for this film and the art direction could not be better.

Because of the scale of this film, and it's forwardness, and possibly it's braveness, this will surely become a cult classic.

A darkly moving exploration of loneliness

[dmreiss · 8/10 · 22 May 2012]

As seen through the lives of people who might be considered a study of "lost souls." Transatlantic Coffee movingly reveals the loneliness, fear, and quiet desperation that that underlies a sense of emotional isolation, at the same time depicts the the interaction of functional and dysfunctional behaviors that serve as attempts to maintain, resurrect and keep alive basic values of hope, meaningfulness, and perhaps most importantly, interpersonal connectedness. The characters strive for a sense of self-understanding - and self-comforting - that comes close, but never truly connects to the extent that true satisfaction with life can be achieved. A complex intertwining, no holds barred, of honesty and self-deception, likability and rejection, hope and despair. DMR, M.D.

Just like a really good red wine...

[jitkelme · 8/10 · 18 January 2013]

Open it, read the label, let it get some air. Taste it. A little rough? Taste it again a little later. It gets better and more complex. This is a film you can watch over and over and with each viewing, you get something new because it's so packed with meaning and with clues. I was getting fat and lazy on a steady diet of RomCom around the house, when a friend suggested this to me and told me to place close attention. The jacket said it had a surprise ending, so I latched on to every detail from the beginning, noticing nuances of photography, sound, music, sets, makeup, location, editing. The craft people knew what they were doing, there were only a few sequences where I felt the quality was inconsistent. Like any art film, they try a few things that don't quite work for me. There is a lot to this movie. If you're looking for intense psychological engagement, you won't be disappointed., and you get some beautiful cinematography to boot.

Transatlantic Coffee Takes You on an Amazing Love Adventure

[judy-225 · 10/10 · 5 December 2012]

Transatlantic Coffee Will Knock Your Socks Off

Transatlantic Coffee takes you on an amazing love adventure between a 41 year old clown named Alex and a teenage stripper named Mandie. Both characters are battling inner demons.

Alex sees life through black and white and Alex is as colorful as a rainbow. The director and writer Erik Peter Carlson uses vibrant energy with splashes of color as he takes you on an amazing journey of love, color, inner demons and knocks your socks off at the end that will leave you in awe.

Can this love affair work?

You have to see it with your own eyes.

A great film with amazing performances by the leads

[Kyopo · 8/10 · 10 December 2012]

It's a shame that most people will not be able to enjoy this gem in a theater, but the DVD is still well worth the price (especially since you'll want to watch the film a couple of times). The performances by the two leads (Kevin Pinassi and Rachel Marie Lewis) were superb, and the visuals and soundtrack add another layer of depth to a great film.

The story centers around a sad man's search to recapture happiness through his friendship with a young woman. It's a pretty dark tale, which is why it's well suited for a theater, but pick a rainy day or quiet evening and watch this film with someone else because you'll want to talk about it immediately.

Wonderful

[benbasilebass · 10/10 · 13 December 2012]

Just finished the movie. Excellent performances by the two main characters. Soundtrack was great. Angel Eyes is one of my favorite standards. I loved that Mandie wore Doc Martens. I love that they went to Poughkeepsie, and you guys actually shot there. (My Hometown!) Love the scene when they first get back to the apartment and talk about the power of music. One of my groups is the performing the track in which they are dancing too. I was pleased to see where you guys chose to use our song. The entire scene is Wonderful. As a musician I loved how music played a huge part in the film. Especially Jazz. I definitely see why the film won so many awards.