Top Coat Cash (2017) User Reviews

This Movie Is Bad But Fun

[d-27320 · 5/10 · 30 August 2023]

The first time I had the displeasure of watching Top Coat Cash was on the plane coming home from South Carolina. This movie shows an extreme lack of experienced screenwriting. The worst incomprehensible plot points are the foreshadowed fight that never happens, the FBI agents that are written in a way that makes you think you should know who they are, and the ending that makes the whole plot seem useless. I do not hold the production value or acting skill against this movie because that is not the fault of the creators. But I do have a gripe with the incompetence of the screenwriters.

The opening sequence of the film is the main character, Johnny Thompson, competing in a boxing match. After he loses the match, he comes home and begins to start training with his old coach for a fight that will happen in the future. This fight is referenced throughout the entire movie, and we are shown scenes of Johnny training with his coach. This fight never happens.

The last bank that Johnny and his team perform a heist on attracts the attention of the FBI. We are "introduced" to two FBI agents that are written in a way that makes you feel like you should know who they are. They are never mentioned before the scene they appear in but seem to know who Johnny and his team are and have been trying to crack down on them.

The main antagonist in this plot is a mob boss that Johnny used to work for. Johnny needs money, so he reinvolves himself with the mob boss. The mob boss is in charge of telling the team which banks to hit. Like any typical mob boss, he begins to threaten the team into receiving a lesser take per job. The team begins to formulate a plan to take down the mob boss. But this is all made pointless during the final scene where Joe McCray just shoots the boss and their bodyguards in the most anticlimactic way. Then the credits roll.

This movie was really enjoyable, don't get me wrong. Especially considering the main actor is my English teacher. He approves this review and finds it funny. Although, the plot is ridiculous. I recommend watching this movie as it's bad in a fun way. It doesn't feel like a waste of time.

Absolute worst film I've tried to watch

[kjkoopman · 1/10 · 3 February 2017]

This is an amateur production, at best, with no imagination in the story line nor cinematography. The acting is non existent, most stand there and simply say their lines like a junior school play. Unwatchable, and that's being kind. No spoilers needed as the fact this film will spoil any time you waste watching it. I usually cross reference movies on IMDb, particularly 'arthouse' films and was pleased to find this movie was over 8 - the fact only about 20 people reviewed it should have been a warning - they are quite obviously the cast, crew and friends (which would probably make up about 20). My partner and I simply could not sit through the entire length as it was so bad. If you don't believe this review I challenge you to watch it and comment on this post.....

Oh my god...It's so bad.

[Reem750618 · 1/10 · 15 March 2017]

This must be one of the worst movies I've ever seen. Let me rephrase; The worst I've even tried(!) to watch. I didn't make it past ten minutes. The camera work is bad, post production is bad, muzzle flash effect and blood effects are bad and the acting is appalling. It's like an amateur backyard production or some school play.

I decided to watch the 'movie' because at the time I'm writing this it scores 7.3 out of 10!? I don't understand how the IMDb rating can be so high? Have people been paid to write those positive reviews? That said, don't waste your time with this junk.

Don't bother

[alisonuzzell · 1/10 · 14 March 2017]

Seriously do not bother. The acting is like my husband getting all his mates down the pub & saying "hey I've got a good idea! Let's make a film" whilst still under the influence!! Absolutely shocking acting. A total waste of 90 minutes Dreadful on all counts. Not sure where or why the actors were employed but this could have been a good story with the right people, finance & directors

Astroturfing is getting out of hand

[braden0732 · 2/10 · 15 March 2017]

I literally created an IMDb account just so I could post this review.

IMDb seems to be getting inundated with astroturfed reviews.This movie has without a doubt been given positive reviews from either paid shills or people who worked on the project.

It is without a doubt one of the worst movies I have ever seen. I couldn't even make it to the end. I've slogged through some real stinkers, in fact it is a bit of a hobby of mine. I couldn't even make it through this one. In fact, that is the reason I gave it 2 stars instead of one. I'm slightly impressed by a movie that is so void of redeeming qualities that I can't make it to the end. I wish it could have been a "good" bad movie, but it took itself way too seriously.

The acting is horrible. Over half of the scenes in the movie serve absolutely no purpose. The characters are incredibly bland and one dimensional.

I honestly never thought I could be bored during a bank heist scene. I'm not even sure how they managed to do that. I'm almost impressed that they could take such a potentially thrilling movie concept and turn it into a snooze.

Please, do not bother with this film. It is absolutely abysmal and you won't get that time back.

Gratuitous Gore, meaningless subplots, totally predictable

[j-39178 · 2/10 · 15 March 2017]

"Top Coat Cash": this is so bad it's hard to know where to begin. The narrative is a disaster, the acting is truly laughable, and the story arcs are predictable. You take a heart-of-gold, down-on-his-luck boxer and add in some grungy bad guys along with a silicone implanted bimbo (in a meaningless subplot by the way) and what do you think they do when they need some cash? Let's rob some banks! Gratuitous gore. Don't waste your time. I gave it a 2 on IMDb because of the great stock footage shots of Las Vegas and Kansas City.

What would you do for your children?

[threedaysdazed · 8/10 · 5 February 2017]

In this tense film, Johnny(Tittone) struggles with his past mistakes. Labeled an absentee father by his strung out ex, he fights to reconnect with his son, Caleb. Johnny struggles against his instincts, in the ring the choices are simpler, punch or be punched. Visiting his old trainer he hopes to find a legitimate way to rebuild his life and liberate his son. Obstacles mount as a greedy bookie enters the picture and the authorities take interest in his return to the city. Backed into a corner he makes the choice to join some old friends in a high-stakes heist that risk everything. Money can't buy you love, but sometimes... it buys freedom.

action, humour, engrossing? YOU GOTTA BE KIDDING ME

[Mandatory-Field · 1/10 · 16 March 2017]

The basic story line is reasonable but .... don't you dare waste any money to see this - and don't waste your time if you can get it for free either. Pathetic scripting, wooden actors, unbelievably bad action, almost meaningless sub plots, big time gangsters who wouldn't scare anyone and FBI agents who show as much authority as a stray cat. Overall, totally amateurish in execution and delivery - a total time waster

Sit back and watch a cool movie.

[jarrodedwards · 9/10 · 23 February 2017]

This movie was amazing. It surpassed my expectations. There may be people out there bashing this movie and it's probably competitors or haters not allowing someone to enjoy a great job. If you want to form an opinion based on reviews go ahead, but I suggest you just watch the movie for the entertainment without any outside influence. Trust me you will not be disappointed. The producer has done an amazing job with the actors and the script. You will enjoy the movie.

• Jarrod

Indie film worth watching

[annelauremilleville · 7/10 · 12 April 2023]

"Top Coat Cash" is a well written action movie that deserves to be watched. The scenario, although made up of several stories in one, is very realistic. We quickly become attached to the main character, Johnny, thanks to the interpretation of David Tittone. His performance is convincing from the beginning to the end, both in the intimate scenes and those of action. The pressure Johnny is under throughout is remarkably conveyed to the viewer through the intensity of each scene. Even though I'm not a gangster/bank robber aficionado, the 105 minutes of this film held my attention. Moreover, the quality of the cast as well as the diversity of the sets and costumes are all the more impressive for an independent film. This indie movie is definitely worth watching.

Just...no

[tellerlindsey · 1/10 · 31 August 2021]

For reference, the director is my teacher and in class he reads his powerpoint presentations word for word with no enthusiasm whatsoever. He also takes months to grade assignments. Similarly enough, in the movie the acting made me physically cringe, and the plotline was simultaneously boring and confusing. I do not know how this movie has so many 10 star ratings, but I highly suspect that they are either people payed to leave reviews or people who worked on the movie themself. Do not watch it, it's not worth it.

Grabbed me from the start.

[sheamart · 9/10 · 27 February 2017]

I couldn't stop watching this movie. I'm a sucker for heist movies, bank robbery scenes so I thought I'd give this film a try, half expecting to turn it off after a while. But it pulls you in fast and hooks you on the main character right away. For an indie film with no big budget or slick Hollywood effects, it pulls off the action and fight scenes convincingly. This makes it even more fun to watch because the movie relies on inventive filmmaking, believable actors and engaging storytelling.

Top Coat Cash is an inspiration

[jrose-86747 · 9/10 · 4 February 2017]

Top Coat Cash goes to show you that you don't need a big budget or a Hollywood backer to create art with value. David Tittone is an inspiration to anyone looking to get into the business of creating art without sacrificing what it takes to be successful in the entertainment industry. If you are to get one thing out of this film it would be the universal message that so many artists try to convey but few ever do: follow your dreams and make your work your message. Both a celebration of Kansas City and it's long heritage of Italian Americans and working class citizens, Top Coat Cash is a triumph for everything that has been lacking in cinema and sorely missed. When a hard working inde-film guy can have a dream, nurture that dream and make it a reality, it shows all of us that we can too be inspired to create something on our own terms and take pride in that work.

Fun indie bank heist film - good story and humor

[justinwilson-46465 · 10/10 · 5 February 2017]

Top Coat Cash is an action-packed drama that delivers on multiple levels and provides viewers with an accurate depiction of modern day organized crime. The film has many great characters and performances, and it's production value is significant for an indie film! David Tittone, the male lead, does a fantastic job in his portrayal of a man down on his luck who will do whatever it takes to start a new life with his son. Some of the standout supporting roles I felt were delivered by Jason Turner and Sonny Gaitan who help Tittone to achieve his ultimate goal. If you are looking for a fun action film filled with humor and a good story, then this will not disappoint!!

Very good local indie movie-Give it a look

[steffiec-69916 · 9/10 · 4 February 2017]

If you don't know much about Kansas City's mafia activity research a little bit because this movie is not far-fetched. Top Coat Cash is a modern twist on the Kansas City mob scene. Complete with mob bosses and their heavies, bank robberies and hits! It's a great movie. Loved it and loved the characters. This movie is filled with amazing local actors who truly make the film. Jason Turner gave a great performance that was pretty amusing in the end. David Tittone as the male lead showed a lot of depth as a desperate father who will do anything to get his kid back. Finally, Davis DeRock was also great for an element of darkness in the film as an abusive boyfriend. The local casting for this movie was perfect, and the actors do not disappoint. It's nice to see independent films produced in Kansas City! We need more local movies produced in Kansas City and more local talent used. Didn't want to put to much in the review and spoil the scenes! Just buy and watch yourself!

Action film/9/10 for smaller budget film.

[jasoncrain-58332 · 9/10 · 25 March 2017]

Top Coat Cash – A Complex Film with a Great Message I literary (or figuratively?) created an account just to write this review. And no, this is not an example of "astroturfing," as some "critics" have claimed on this message board. After reading through the interminable drove of negative reviews presented on this message board, I felt compelled to prove that this movie has been given positive reviews from individuals who have no affiliation with the movie. And no, this is not a hobby of mine. Thus, the following review is from an individual who ENJOYED Top Coat Cash and who is TIRED of seeing PHONY negative reviews on every movie on IMDb – no blanket statements or logical fallacies here, just truth, with no spoilers. PLOT: Complex. The plot presents a story with multiple layers. Johnny Thompson (David Tittone) must fight to overcome various obstacles in the movie, and his journey ultimately conveys the underlying theme that the underdog in society can overcome great odds through perseverance. ACTING: Good. Hollywood A-Listers deserving Academy Award Trophies? No. However, the movie features a group of up and coming actors who effectively convey their characters and provide for an entertaining viewing experience. ACTION: Loved it. As stated on the IMDb page, Top Coat Cash had a working budget of $300,000. Fooled me. Do we witness Michael Bay explosions and VFX –no. However, the action is realistic and gritty. The fact that this team pulled off bank heists, including a cool Tarantino style scene in a bank vault, is very impressive. Gratuitous Gore? HAHA – I hope some of you didn't watch Reservoir Dogs –also a great film. QUALITY: Perfect? No – but good. I was impressed with the Motion Graphics presented in both the opening and closing of the film. I was impressed with the Original Score – a score that both reflects and conveys the mood of each scene. I was impressed with the Sound Design; in fact, the sound design was nearly flawless. Finally, I was impressed with the Editing – smooth with great cuts to reflect the changing emotions of characters in each scene. Does the movie need some work? Yes , but with a budget of $300,000, I was very impressed, and believe these filmmakers created a movie that can hold its own against big budget Hollywood films.

Action packed. Great story-line

[hklinginsmith · 10/10 · 4 February 2017]

Even though this is not my typical genre, I really enjoyed the film. However, it isn't without faults. It did seem like some of the violence was a little over the top.

The story-line is intriguing and kept my interest. I really enjoyed the humor that was intertwined throughout some of the darker moments throughout the film. For example, I really enjoyed the humor that the Santache Brother's added to the story.

One of the best performances in the movie was by Sonny Gaitan, the trainer for Johnny Thompson. I felt like his performance was very authentic. I also really enjoyed the performance of the bookie, played by Steve Lopez.

Overall, great movie!

A fun movie to watch.

[jwa-07813 · 10/10 · 28 March 2017]

A fun movie to watch. Just make sure you don't take yourself too seriously when you do. No one, no social group is sacred. Top Coat Cash is indiscriminate in its disrespect for all – blacks, whites, Hispanics, criminals, law enforcement, gays, heterosexual. But that seems to be one of the main points made by Top Coat Cash: Bigotry and prejudice resonate in today's polarized society. The movie doesn't argue for or against bigotry. Instead, it shows how one individual, as imperfect as he is, can overcome, even in the face of all this evil and prejudice. Tarantino is a genius, and it would be disrespectful to him to say this is a Tarantino film. Like Tarantino movies, Top Coat Cash has a healthy dose of testosterone: 4 bank heists, MMA fight, murder, torture. Intense. My guess is that if you are a fan of Tarantino's early films, you will enjoy Top Coat Cash.

Entertaining and worth watching.

[sallys-74629 · 10/10 · 28 March 2017]

Entertaining and well written. Acting is good. The story line captivates you early and doesn't disappoint. In particular, Johnny causes one to contemplate a contemporary social issue: Society seems intent on minimizing individuals and making the road to success as difficult as possible. Critics, the press, people with particular views, etc., can all be bigoted and close minded in their criticism of others. Always willing to judge, but too ignorant and self-serving to listen or see if they may learn something. Johnny is symbolic of those attacked by people or members of groups like these. When Top Coat Cash starts, we see that Johnny has already had an awakening (we are left to figure how or why on our own). As Top Coat Cash progresses, Johnny has to deal with all that are hoping he will fail.

Yet, against all odds, he like many of us in real life, recognizes what is most important, and does whatever is necessary to protect those about which he cares most. This movie can be watched on different levels, as a pure action filled story or viewed as a movie that makes a social statement, where Johnny, the anti- hero, makes a pact with evil to find a way out of hell, and overcome the weight of society trying to hold him down and destroy all that he cares about.

Awesome Crime Thriller

[bohemianpirate-871-383487 · 10/10 · 18 June 2019]

I love a good heist film. I was totally impressed with Top Coat Cash. The bank robbery was especially well executed. I was on the edge of my seat! True life MMA fighter Jakob Akin was a welcome surprise as well. This film is overall- awesome and a lot of fun. Totally recommend!

I enjoyed it!

[craigahrens · 8/10 · 7 June 2019]

I appreciated the look of this film. That might seem odd to lead with this as my first comment. But this is a big area for me. If I don't much care for the look (I would include sound in here too). I'll never get to the story and acting. I thought the cinematographer did a really good job. I liked the choice of shots. I thought overall the actors did a good job and the Director did a solid job in helping to move the film along. I'd give this film a thumb's up!

Great Indie Movie

[stingleyk · 8/10 · 26 April 2017]

I have just finished watching this movie, and I do not see what all the bad reviews are about. For a low budget indie movie, this one provides action and a fast-paced plot. For the individuals that provided bad reviews, I think they went into this with a mindset of this movie being made with a large Hollywood budget. Not only that this movie has received multiple awards and praise from the indie-film arena. I found the scenes to be shot and styled in a way that most directors in Hollywood are using at this time. I would recommend this movie to anyone that is a pure indie-film junkie. Additionally, I feel that David Tittone has a bright future ahead of him, and I look forward to additional films coming from him.

Interesting Ending

[kphillips-57705 · 8/10 · 2 May 2017]

I had an opportunity to go to the Kansas City Premier. I was pleasantly surprised that I enjoyed it so much. This movie will not be winning an Oscar but I was definitely entertained. Some of the acting was less than great probably due to the limited budget. The story had a few twists and turns that held my interest and I loved the ending. This one is not a 50 million dollar blockbuster so in my opinion you should be rating it based on it's piers and I am doing just that.

Action packed mma thriller

[bgianci-790-772540 · 8/10 · 12 June 2019]

As an MMA fan I had to check this one out and it was actually really good. Classic story of a desperate man who turns to crime to solve his problems and all hell breaks loose. Good performances and lots of twists and turns in this action packed thriller.

Suspenseful, thrilling ride from the first shot to the last!

[MariaAllred · 9/10 · 22 June 2019]

Super intense and entertaining film, had me gripped from start to finish. Great story line, excellent production values, great acting. Some gory parts graphically done with such believability that I had to close my eyes. interesting to have such an exciting heist movie take place in Kansas City, but I liked the change! Would absolutely recommend.