I think you need to be around 70 years of age to really enjoy this Movie. I am and I did; I really did. I chuckled and laughed throughout the movie and continued to do so long into the evening as I remembered some of the more memorable scenes. This is a gem of a Movie and brings back a touch of the real movies of yesteryear. No Vampires ; no Zombies; no computer designed sets and monsters, no excruciatingly LOUD music and noises; just a simple story well told with real ACTORS. I could have sat through it again as soon as it was over....and I may go again. Some of these "Critics" need to age a bit to really understand the difference that a Movie like this can bring to its audience
108 Reviews
It's like the old days, isn't it?
paul_haakonsen30 July 2013
Not having gotten around to watching "Stand Up Guys" before now was a mistake on my behalf, especially given the three acting heavyweighters that stars in the movie; Al Pacino, Christopher Walken and Alan Arkin.
"Stand Up Guys" is a good comedy that has a nice story to tell. Although this is not the type of comedy that will have you spilling your drinks in your laps from laughing, it is the type of light-hearted comedy that will make you feel good.
The story is about Val (played by Al Pacino) who comes out from prison after 28 years of incarceration. Meeting him at the entrance is his old friend Doc (played by Christopher Walken). Doc has been hired to kill Val and has a time limit until the next morning; and during this time the old friends start up old habits and revisit old friends.
The characters in the movie were nicely fleshed out and nicely detailed. There is a really good chemistry between Pacino and Walken, and this really reflects well on both characters that they play, because there is a very good sense of friendship and intimacy's with one another as they are on the screen.
The movie offers drama, action, comedy and even a high speed chase.
"Stand Up Guys" is a fun and great movie, which offers 95 minutes of great entertainment. If not for the good story, then the movie is well worth watching for the three stars of the movie.
"Stand Up Guys" is a good comedy that has a nice story to tell. Although this is not the type of comedy that will have you spilling your drinks in your laps from laughing, it is the type of light-hearted comedy that will make you feel good.
The story is about Val (played by Al Pacino) who comes out from prison after 28 years of incarceration. Meeting him at the entrance is his old friend Doc (played by Christopher Walken). Doc has been hired to kill Val and has a time limit until the next morning; and during this time the old friends start up old habits and revisit old friends.
The characters in the movie were nicely fleshed out and nicely detailed. There is a really good chemistry between Pacino and Walken, and this really reflects well on both characters that they play, because there is a very good sense of friendship and intimacy's with one another as they are on the screen.
The movie offers drama, action, comedy and even a high speed chase.
"Stand Up Guys" is a fun and great movie, which offers 95 minutes of great entertainment. If not for the good story, then the movie is well worth watching for the three stars of the movie.
Al Pacino and Christopher Walken
SnoopyStyle17 August 2013
Val (Al Pacino) is released from prison after serving 28 years. His friend Doc (Christopher Walken) has been ordered to kill him before the morning. Conflicted, Doc spends the night with Val partying.
The story is almost unimportant. It certainly has nothing too compelling. Alan Arkin adds his own color and Lucy Punch is kinda fun as a bodied whorehouse madam. However, this is mostly about spending time with Al Pacino and Christopher Walken together. They have great chemistry. Don't expect much from the rest. It's a fun watch for fans of these actors. It's not their best work but it's certainly plenty good.
The story is almost unimportant. It certainly has nothing too compelling. Alan Arkin adds his own color and Lucy Punch is kinda fun as a bodied whorehouse madam. However, this is mostly about spending time with Al Pacino and Christopher Walken together. They have great chemistry. Don't expect much from the rest. It's a fun watch for fans of these actors. It's not their best work but it's certainly plenty good.
Walken & Pacino & Arkin. We can't ask for more. We should. But we can't.
Rodrigo_Amaro29 August 2013
Three legends. Three Oscar winners directed by another Oscar winner (Fisher Stevens won as producer for a documentary). United in one movie. That should be enough and one should expect maybe just a decent script and then fine. "Stand Up Guys" promises too much while securing Al Pacino, Christopher Walken and Alan Arkin in the front row but delivers less than expected with its usual crime/comedy elements focusing on aging criminals and very few to say. The cast chemistry is good (but Pacino already had movies with the other guys, sharing scene with Arkin in "Glengarry Glen Ross" and with Walken in "Gigli" although they don't share scenes in that thing) and it's probably the only reason why everybody wants to see this movie
But it's terribly generic. Pacino done his sentence and is released from prison. Walken is waiting for him for two reasons: 1) to see his old friend again and 2) to kill him, contracted by another criminal boss (Mark Margolis) who wants to revenge his son's death. Soon they rejoin Arkin and the gang is back on action. Besides the fact that they all have fun together after a long time without seeing each other, what's most important here is their reflections on life and time and enjoy the little moments. It's all very simplistic told - a little let down since we're delighted with great and powerful stars - but it achieves some effect.
The drama takes a long while to be really gripping, and the comedy only gets truly good when Arkin finally appears (despithe top billing with the other guys, he's there for very briefly, showing up after long thirty minutes). He made this something almost remarkable, efficiently funny. I think the actors presence and relative brilliance compensate the script's lack of real premise, lack of more movement and characters and even lack of challenge for everyone involved. Enjoy their company and that's it. That must be enough, sometimes. 6/10
But it's terribly generic. Pacino done his sentence and is released from prison. Walken is waiting for him for two reasons: 1) to see his old friend again and 2) to kill him, contracted by another criminal boss (Mark Margolis) who wants to revenge his son's death. Soon they rejoin Arkin and the gang is back on action. Besides the fact that they all have fun together after a long time without seeing each other, what's most important here is their reflections on life and time and enjoy the little moments. It's all very simplistic told - a little let down since we're delighted with great and powerful stars - but it achieves some effect.
The drama takes a long while to be really gripping, and the comedy only gets truly good when Arkin finally appears (despithe top billing with the other guys, he's there for very briefly, showing up after long thirty minutes). He made this something almost remarkable, efficiently funny. I think the actors presence and relative brilliance compensate the script's lack of real premise, lack of more movement and characters and even lack of challenge for everyone involved. Enjoy their company and that's it. That must be enough, sometimes. 6/10
All About the Actors
gavin694213 January 2014
A pair of aging stickup men try to get the old gang back together for one last hurrah before one of the guys takes his last assignment -- to kill his comrade.
Trying to say if this is a good film is a difficult task. The story is pretty good and the direction strikes me as neither great nor terrible, but quite capable. The film really comes down to actors: Christopher Walken, Al Pacino and Alan Arkin.
And that is what makes this even more difficult -- even the acting hardly deserves special praise, as these are guys who can just show up and enthrall us. Walken especially has a cult following, but both Pacino and Arkin can just be filmed for ninety minutes and entertain.
Now, if I do not look at it critically but just as enjoyment, this is a very good film and entertained me quite well. I would recommend it.
Trying to say if this is a good film is a difficult task. The story is pretty good and the direction strikes me as neither great nor terrible, but quite capable. The film really comes down to actors: Christopher Walken, Al Pacino and Alan Arkin.
And that is what makes this even more difficult -- even the acting hardly deserves special praise, as these are guys who can just show up and enthrall us. Walken especially has a cult following, but both Pacino and Arkin can just be filmed for ninety minutes and entertain.
Now, if I do not look at it critically but just as enjoyment, this is a very good film and entertained me quite well. I would recommend it.
Light comedy with heart
TdSmth511 June 2013
If you've seen the trailer you know most of the plot. Pacino's Val is released from prison after 28 years. He's welcomed by his buddy Doc (Walken) who was part of his criminal team. But Doc has orders from some mean boss named Claphands to kill Val by the next day or else they'll go after Doc's granddaughter. It turns out that in some shootout one of Val's bullets killed one of Claphands' sons.
And at first it's all fun and games. Doc takes Val to see a hooker, to party, do drugs, dance, drink, they steal a car from some bad guys, etc. The good deed of the day comes when they decide to avenge some girl that was held captive in the trunk of the Challenger they stole. But Val knows how his day will end and has resigned himself to his fate. When they run into the daughter of their third teammate, Hirsch, the driver, they decide to free him for from a convalescent hospital for a night of fun.
The question remains, will or won't Doc kill his only friend; how and when. Doc also has a soft spot for a cute young waitress at a diner he visits every day. We also learn more about her.
Stand Up Guys starts out pretty funny. Pacino delivers as always. Walken is a bit stiff and of few words, but then what can he do when his character is put in such a dilemma. Things go downhill when Hirsch is introduced. He's a mean old guy, and they rehash they same situations that we just saw Val go through- visiting the prostitutes, the car with keyless ignition. The Hirsch character really works only for two jokes or so. As with all comedies, this one also has a lot of heart and some tender moments. And you really can't go wrong with Pacino and Walken
And at first it's all fun and games. Doc takes Val to see a hooker, to party, do drugs, dance, drink, they steal a car from some bad guys, etc. The good deed of the day comes when they decide to avenge some girl that was held captive in the trunk of the Challenger they stole. But Val knows how his day will end and has resigned himself to his fate. When they run into the daughter of their third teammate, Hirsch, the driver, they decide to free him for from a convalescent hospital for a night of fun.
The question remains, will or won't Doc kill his only friend; how and when. Doc also has a soft spot for a cute young waitress at a diner he visits every day. We also learn more about her.
Stand Up Guys starts out pretty funny. Pacino delivers as always. Walken is a bit stiff and of few words, but then what can he do when his character is put in such a dilemma. Things go downhill when Hirsch is introduced. He's a mean old guy, and they rehash they same situations that we just saw Val go through- visiting the prostitutes, the car with keyless ignition. The Hirsch character really works only for two jokes or so. As with all comedies, this one also has a lot of heart and some tender moments. And you really can't go wrong with Pacino and Walken
Very solid
b-meyers10 March 2013
I read some of the reviews here, and I think that some who have reviewed this extremely negatively (as in 1/10) are those who appreciate a movie with lots of explosions, and maybe some guys with their tops off, flexing their muscles to accentuate just how tough they are.
Luckily, there isn't much of that in Stand Up Guys. It's character-driven, centered on the relationship between Val (PAcino) and Doc (Walken), both of whom are spectacular.
There's some great dialogue between the two, and despite what you may read on here, the story is quite solid, if simplistic. I don't think people have fully grasped these characters in some reviews, or the meaning of the title "Stand Up Guys". They're throwbacks, and the situations they encounter represent the direction the world has headed over the years, a world that Doc is forced to be a part of, despite wanting a quieter life.
I won't go on any further, but I found the characters endearing, and the relationship between Val and Doc kept me on the hook.
Nice soundtrack, too.
Cheers
Luckily, there isn't much of that in Stand Up Guys. It's character-driven, centered on the relationship between Val (PAcino) and Doc (Walken), both of whom are spectacular.
There's some great dialogue between the two, and despite what you may read on here, the story is quite solid, if simplistic. I don't think people have fully grasped these characters in some reviews, or the meaning of the title "Stand Up Guys". They're throwbacks, and the situations they encounter represent the direction the world has headed over the years, a world that Doc is forced to be a part of, despite wanting a quieter life.
I won't go on any further, but I found the characters endearing, and the relationship between Val and Doc kept me on the hook.
Nice soundtrack, too.
Cheers
It's OK.
Analog_Devotee9 July 2021
Sad these actors stooped so low.
holchie18 October 2022
I thought with those 3 main actors, how bad could it be? Well, there really are no words for how horrid this movie is. I am shocked,at the amount of people who liked it and reviewed it with a 10 score. They all have to be old men. Al's character was the most disgusting. I can't believe he took this part. Is he broke? He goes to a bordello twice and also to a hospital where his manliness under a blanket is the main star of that scene. Ugh, sick and gross. Then another one of them has a threesome at the same pay-to-play place. These are ancient men we're talking about here. There was only one woman their age in the movie and she was portrayed as a hag. All the other women were young and beautiful and flirted sexily with the geezers. As if. Dream on. Also, very darkly lit, which could have been a blessing, since there is no cleaning up these old guys. This movie was a fantasy flick made for old men.
Nice movie
lagudafuad19 January 2013
Stand Up Guys is a movie that as soon as you get over the first 35 minutes of grossness and drama + intro, all that is left is a bag full of laughs and eye brow raising scenes, that made me enjoy watching the movie and even wanting more, because the movie ending is left open for you to fill in the blanks.
The movie is composed of two old stars, Al Pacino and Christopher Walken and its original song is done by Jon Bon Jovi. Both actors delivered an expected combination of finesse and chemistry that you can only get when two veteran actors stand side by side. I have for long been a huge fan of Christopher Walken, one reason being I have not come across an actor that can make me laugh even when the scene involves just reading a book. Another reason for loving Walken is just because he can play any role hero or villain, comic or drama and still deliver a performance that will make you smile at how well it was done.
All this said doesn't mean Al Pacino is not as good or in the eyes of others better, but in this movie Walken caught my eye, Pacino's performance is one that makes you accord respect to him. My favorite scene is when Pacino is taken to the emergency room because he popped too many Viagra pills, look out for that scene.
The movie is about Val (Pacino), who just got released from jail after 28 years, all because he refused to rat out his friends Doc (Walken) and Richard Hirsch (Alan Arkin). After his release, Val craved excitement one that he pushed Doc to provide, Doc did his best and that night turned from, just getting Val laid to, breaking into stores, rescuing a rape victim, busting Richard of an old people's home and out running the cops.
Val's release also led to a confession and a funeral.
What Stand Up Guys is composed of is good acting, the cinematography is not exceptional, the screenplay on the other hand is masterful and captivating, the moment Alan Arkin is introduced we get to see some cool driving stunts that was meant to make you wonder what these characters were like in their younger days. Fisher Steven (Crazy Love 2007) was the man on the director sit for this movie.
It is a short movie, just like 90 minutes long, but I tell you it was 90 minutes well spent and I did find the movie funny enough to want to go see it again, so when it is out in the cinemas near you, take out time to go see it. Although this is not a date movie, it is a guy movie.
www.lagsreviews.com
The movie is composed of two old stars, Al Pacino and Christopher Walken and its original song is done by Jon Bon Jovi. Both actors delivered an expected combination of finesse and chemistry that you can only get when two veteran actors stand side by side. I have for long been a huge fan of Christopher Walken, one reason being I have not come across an actor that can make me laugh even when the scene involves just reading a book. Another reason for loving Walken is just because he can play any role hero or villain, comic or drama and still deliver a performance that will make you smile at how well it was done.
All this said doesn't mean Al Pacino is not as good or in the eyes of others better, but in this movie Walken caught my eye, Pacino's performance is one that makes you accord respect to him. My favorite scene is when Pacino is taken to the emergency room because he popped too many Viagra pills, look out for that scene.
The movie is about Val (Pacino), who just got released from jail after 28 years, all because he refused to rat out his friends Doc (Walken) and Richard Hirsch (Alan Arkin). After his release, Val craved excitement one that he pushed Doc to provide, Doc did his best and that night turned from, just getting Val laid to, breaking into stores, rescuing a rape victim, busting Richard of an old people's home and out running the cops.
Val's release also led to a confession and a funeral.
What Stand Up Guys is composed of is good acting, the cinematography is not exceptional, the screenplay on the other hand is masterful and captivating, the moment Alan Arkin is introduced we get to see some cool driving stunts that was meant to make you wonder what these characters were like in their younger days. Fisher Steven (Crazy Love 2007) was the man on the director sit for this movie.
It is a short movie, just like 90 minutes long, but I tell you it was 90 minutes well spent and I did find the movie funny enough to want to go see it again, so when it is out in the cinemas near you, take out time to go see it. Although this is not a date movie, it is a guy movie.
www.lagsreviews.com
Netflix Movie Review: Stand Up Guys
Phillip_Tomasso2 January 2014
"They say we die twice. Once when the breath leaves our body, and once when the last person we know says our name."--Valentino
The 2012 Fisher Stevens film, Stand Up Guys, has a strong cast. Bringing in $3 million at the box office, it was clearly something of a flop. Unfortunately, Al Pacino, Christopher Walken and Alan Arkin might not be the draw they once were. The 95 minute, Rated R mob-like movie was, if anything, consistent. Not great. Not horrible.
Valentino, "Val" to his friends -- Pacino to you and me, is just released from prison after 28 years locked away. "Doc" (Walken) meets him at the gate. Retired made-men, the two head back to Doc's, where a pull-out sofa bed is ready for Val. Having spent his retired days painting sunrises and sunsets, Doc is pretty set in his routine. A little frisky after decades behind bars, Val is hoping to party.
Nightclubs, and whore houses, some robbery and plenty of reminiscing is what unfolds. Doc was able to track down his daughter, but not his granddaughter. The regrets of his life apparent in his face, in his words, and even in his actions. Somewhat bitter, Val, was sent to prison and never talked. Never gave anyone up. Took the punishment all on his own.
Mark Margolis portrays the mob boss character, Claphands. He has not forgotten Val, or part of why Val was in prison. Claphands' only son was murdered by Val. The only fair thing is revenge. The clock is set. At 10:00 AM, Val will be dead. One way or the other.
Enter Alan Arkin as Hirsch. Doc and Val rescue their old time friend from a retirement home. They steal a Mustang, and they paint the town red. That is, until they find a surprise in the trunk of the vehicle. And then participate in serving up some serious justice.
Many scenes, I hate to admit are just over acted by Pacino. However, the story continues to move forward. It is often touching and slightly emotional. It is often humorous and slightly compelling. Overall it is a solid rental, or Netflix kind of film. I did not play with my phone, or scroll statuses on Facebook. It's how I rate a film, people. For these reasons, and the simple respect for the cast, I am giving Stand Up Guys 7 out of 10 stars. Why 7? Because it really was a pretty good film. Not great. But Pretty good. (Lots of bad language, some violence, No Nudity).
Phillip Tomasso Author of the Best Selling Vaccination Trilogy http://www.philliptomasso.com/
The 2012 Fisher Stevens film, Stand Up Guys, has a strong cast. Bringing in $3 million at the box office, it was clearly something of a flop. Unfortunately, Al Pacino, Christopher Walken and Alan Arkin might not be the draw they once were. The 95 minute, Rated R mob-like movie was, if anything, consistent. Not great. Not horrible.
Valentino, "Val" to his friends -- Pacino to you and me, is just released from prison after 28 years locked away. "Doc" (Walken) meets him at the gate. Retired made-men, the two head back to Doc's, where a pull-out sofa bed is ready for Val. Having spent his retired days painting sunrises and sunsets, Doc is pretty set in his routine. A little frisky after decades behind bars, Val is hoping to party.
Nightclubs, and whore houses, some robbery and plenty of reminiscing is what unfolds. Doc was able to track down his daughter, but not his granddaughter. The regrets of his life apparent in his face, in his words, and even in his actions. Somewhat bitter, Val, was sent to prison and never talked. Never gave anyone up. Took the punishment all on his own.
Mark Margolis portrays the mob boss character, Claphands. He has not forgotten Val, or part of why Val was in prison. Claphands' only son was murdered by Val. The only fair thing is revenge. The clock is set. At 10:00 AM, Val will be dead. One way or the other.
Enter Alan Arkin as Hirsch. Doc and Val rescue their old time friend from a retirement home. They steal a Mustang, and they paint the town red. That is, until they find a surprise in the trunk of the vehicle. And then participate in serving up some serious justice.
Many scenes, I hate to admit are just over acted by Pacino. However, the story continues to move forward. It is often touching and slightly emotional. It is often humorous and slightly compelling. Overall it is a solid rental, or Netflix kind of film. I did not play with my phone, or scroll statuses on Facebook. It's how I rate a film, people. For these reasons, and the simple respect for the cast, I am giving Stand Up Guys 7 out of 10 stars. Why 7? Because it really was a pretty good film. Not great. But Pretty good. (Lots of bad language, some violence, No Nudity).
Phillip Tomasso Author of the Best Selling Vaccination Trilogy http://www.philliptomasso.com/
Old men gangsters can still do the job
GTeixeira3 April 2014
It's been a while since I found a movie this fun to watch. Not brilliant, not ingenious and maybe not all that great, not something that will go down in cinema history. Just that: some very fun and entertaining 90 minutes.
Al Pacino plays an old criminal, a 'stand-up guy', who leaves prison after 28 years. Christopher Walken, his friend, is assigned to kill him by a vindictive mob boss; so the two decide to live Pacino's last hours with style like their old days.
The movie is quite a delight to watch. Pacino and Walken are both brilliant actors, and even if not at their best their performance here still shows. Their characters feels real, almost as if they aren't working but really just having fun with each other. Alan Arkin, who joins both for a good part of the movie, also gives quite a flair of talent, even if not as snarky as I prefer from him.
The music, mostly by Bon Jovi, really complements the story and there is plenty of black humor. Something about the political incorrectness of their 'adventure' (which involve a cat house, breaking into a pharmacy, beating up other criminals and 'saving' a friend from a retirement house) helped making me like the film, and make the characters seen very much real.
The chance to see Pacino and Walken (and Arkin to a lesser extent) in a nice, less serious but fun showing of their skills, coupled with the entertaining and almost heart-warming story, makes this film a sure recommendation.
Al Pacino plays an old criminal, a 'stand-up guy', who leaves prison after 28 years. Christopher Walken, his friend, is assigned to kill him by a vindictive mob boss; so the two decide to live Pacino's last hours with style like their old days.
The movie is quite a delight to watch. Pacino and Walken are both brilliant actors, and even if not at their best their performance here still shows. Their characters feels real, almost as if they aren't working but really just having fun with each other. Alan Arkin, who joins both for a good part of the movie, also gives quite a flair of talent, even if not as snarky as I prefer from him.
The music, mostly by Bon Jovi, really complements the story and there is plenty of black humor. Something about the political incorrectness of their 'adventure' (which involve a cat house, breaking into a pharmacy, beating up other criminals and 'saving' a friend from a retirement house) helped making me like the film, and make the characters seen very much real.
The chance to see Pacino and Walken (and Arkin to a lesser extent) in a nice, less serious but fun showing of their skills, coupled with the entertaining and almost heart-warming story, makes this film a sure recommendation.
Walken and Pacino - Just like bacon and eggs but even better
d0wen17 January 2013
The film has a nice genuine feel about it, great story, great acting and a great soundtrack that compliments the film and characters! I found myself getting sucked in to the characters and as much as I enjoy seeing Walken act and hearing his dialogue, Pacino was great in this film too. He's not an angry mobster but a likable criminal one of his best films I think. Walken doesn't give us the old stories that we are used to but his presence is just perfection.
Do not expect this film to be full of gangster violence and action, this is the other end of the career. Experience and heart goes a long way.
I have to say that if this film was made with a different cast I think it would have been slow and easy to miss, walken and pacino make the film as genuine as they come.
Do not expect this film to be full of gangster violence and action, this is the other end of the career. Experience and heart goes a long way.
I have to say that if this film was made with a different cast I think it would have been slow and easy to miss, walken and pacino make the film as genuine as they come.
'They don't make 'em like they used to'
gradyharp20 May 2013
A stand up guy is defined as someone who refuses to rat out the Family no matter what the pressure, offer, or threat. It is an apt title for this little film that decides at the onset to remain small. It does offer some of our favorite aging actors the opportunity to redefine friendship in a very tender and warm manner. Is it s a great movie? No, not really, but is it worth watching for the joy of seeing Al Pacino, Christopher Walken and Alan Arkin join talents – most definitely 'yes.'
Valentino/'Val' (Al Pacino) is an old school, small time, two-bit crook who took the fall for a botched robbery 28 years prior. Being a "Stand up guy", Val did his time and kept his mouth shut, and never revealed any information with regards to the crime; he didn't cop a plea, rat out his friends, and he was tried and sentenced to the full extent of the law. Val's best friend and cohort in crime is Doc (Christopher Walken). While in prison and even now as Val prepares to be reintegrated back into society, Doc has always been there for Val. However, Doc has a heavy burden weighing on his conscious. It seems that during all the gunfire shot amid the botched robbery, Val inadvertently shot and killed the only son of the crime syndicates Boss, Claphands (Mark Margolis). Claphands has waited 28 long years for retribution; and Doc has been ordered to execute the hit on Val, and he only has 24 hours to complete the task or suffer repercussions himself for noncompliance.
In the interim 24 hours we meet the lovely waitress Alex (Addison Timlin) who happens to be Doc's granddaughter, the third member of the old gang Hirsch (Alan Arkin) whom Val and Doc rescue from a rest home to spend the night at a brothel run by Wendy (Lucy Punch), Val's experience with impotence at the brothel that leads him to overdose on Viagra he and Doc steal from a pharmacy and that leads to Val's priapism that requires aspiration in a hospital attended by Nina Hirsch (Julianna Margulies) who is Hirsh's daughter, and a final encounter with the thugs of Claphands and Claphands himself as the 24 hour deadline approaches.
It is all great fun and even more important is the expression of the bond of friendship between Val and Doc, and with Hirsch. Yes the script gets off key at times but this is not meant to be a major gangster film. This is a tale about friendship and loyalty in a crime setting that has just happened to age – not unlike the actors. Grady Harp, May 13
Valentino/'Val' (Al Pacino) is an old school, small time, two-bit crook who took the fall for a botched robbery 28 years prior. Being a "Stand up guy", Val did his time and kept his mouth shut, and never revealed any information with regards to the crime; he didn't cop a plea, rat out his friends, and he was tried and sentenced to the full extent of the law. Val's best friend and cohort in crime is Doc (Christopher Walken). While in prison and even now as Val prepares to be reintegrated back into society, Doc has always been there for Val. However, Doc has a heavy burden weighing on his conscious. It seems that during all the gunfire shot amid the botched robbery, Val inadvertently shot and killed the only son of the crime syndicates Boss, Claphands (Mark Margolis). Claphands has waited 28 long years for retribution; and Doc has been ordered to execute the hit on Val, and he only has 24 hours to complete the task or suffer repercussions himself for noncompliance.
In the interim 24 hours we meet the lovely waitress Alex (Addison Timlin) who happens to be Doc's granddaughter, the third member of the old gang Hirsch (Alan Arkin) whom Val and Doc rescue from a rest home to spend the night at a brothel run by Wendy (Lucy Punch), Val's experience with impotence at the brothel that leads him to overdose on Viagra he and Doc steal from a pharmacy and that leads to Val's priapism that requires aspiration in a hospital attended by Nina Hirsch (Julianna Margulies) who is Hirsh's daughter, and a final encounter with the thugs of Claphands and Claphands himself as the 24 hour deadline approaches.
It is all great fun and even more important is the expression of the bond of friendship between Val and Doc, and with Hirsch. Yes the script gets off key at times but this is not meant to be a major gangster film. This is a tale about friendship and loyalty in a crime setting that has just happened to age – not unlike the actors. Grady Harp, May 13
Aging actors aging poorly
gmaileatsyourlunch23 June 2021
Too many reviews are rating this on their reverence and nostalgia for these great actors and not on the film itself, which, unfortunately is anything but great. It seems Stand Up Guys really, really wants to prove this aging trio can outsmart, outfight and outromance every 30-something or 20-something "kid" they come across. And yet one quickly wonders just who it's trying to prove this to: the audience or itself.
Oh sure, they complain of their aches and pains, and of getting old, and "these darn kids", and yet over and over the message is less about accepting age with grace and more about proving they can still turn back the clock at will for one last hurrah, often crossing the line into cringe in the process. For example, a scene where a scraggly, shambling Pacino convinces a statuesque young woman to dance with him in a bar is simultaneously unbelievable and creepy, but the film seems to say that since it's Pacino, "just go with it".
Meanwhile, every character under age 40 is either a caricature or two dimensional cardboard cutout that exists solely to cater to and react to this trio as if they're still the center of the universe. Some of the supporting cast seem to stand around grinning stupidly, as if they're just overjoyed to be sharing the screen with these greats. The plot and much of the dialog likewise take a back seat because "Pacino! Walken! Arkin! What more do you need?"
Do yourself (and these actors) a favor and skip this one.
Oh sure, they complain of their aches and pains, and of getting old, and "these darn kids", and yet over and over the message is less about accepting age with grace and more about proving they can still turn back the clock at will for one last hurrah, often crossing the line into cringe in the process. For example, a scene where a scraggly, shambling Pacino convinces a statuesque young woman to dance with him in a bar is simultaneously unbelievable and creepy, but the film seems to say that since it's Pacino, "just go with it".
Meanwhile, every character under age 40 is either a caricature or two dimensional cardboard cutout that exists solely to cater to and react to this trio as if they're still the center of the universe. Some of the supporting cast seem to stand around grinning stupidly, as if they're just overjoyed to be sharing the screen with these greats. The plot and much of the dialog likewise take a back seat because "Pacino! Walken! Arkin! What more do you need?"
Do yourself (and these actors) a favor and skip this one.
Totally Entertaining
oompietseplaas17 January 2013
I'm not one who often writes reviews and I had absolutely no idea what to expect from this Movie. What can I say - Pacino was Spectacular and Walken is - well, he's Walken. As brilliant as he was in The Deer Hunter. The Duo make a stunning and very humorous Duo and certain parts of the Movie will definitely have you in stitches. I'm not going to say anything about the plot but I highly recommend this Movie to any potential Viewers. Filled with Witty Humour and sharp Sarcasm, the Movie tends to get one thinking about different aspects of Life. A Fun Movie - and though a bit slow, I was fixed on the Screen. Pacino and Walken make some of the Newer Actors look like true Amateurs - Watch it - You'll Love it!!
Cringeworthy, but you should watch it
PaulusLoZebra26 February 2023
Reviewing Stand Up Guys is not easy. I am genuinely glad I watched it, and I recommend it, but that's because I was able to ignore the several hackneyed and sophomoric slapstick scenes in the script. I loved reading Roger Ebert's very strong review (3.5/4) of this movie, because he highlighted all the things I also liked, but he basically passed over the drawbacks. I can't be so glib about it, they do affect my final rating as they did not for him, but I agree that's worth watching. Anyway, what really works in this movie are the premise, more compelling as a drama than a comedy, and all the quiet moments when Pacino and Walken just shine. What also works is that it's set in an anonymized city - it could be anywhere in North America, which means that we are not distracted by local details. Another good structural move, albeit unrealistic, was to have it play out in an almost abandoned, seemingly unpopulated city. Again, this technique serves to put all the focus on the interactions between Pacino and Walken. Overall, thumbs down for the script, a neutral on the direction, and thumbs up for the acting and character development.
This is just sad
backup-5036213 April 2022
It's a shame seeing those legendary actors in such a cringey, lame, pathetic movie with such basic "jokes" and sad premises. Pacino's like 200 years old so he can't get hard with a prostitute - ha ha. Walken lives in a rundown apartment - ha ha.
Ooh this is pathetic, like I said. A bottom-tier comedy attempt and a waste of likeable actors.
Ooh this is pathetic, like I said. A bottom-tier comedy attempt and a waste of likeable actors.
Pretty much run-of-the mill 'we oldies can still cut it' schlock, but better than some of its kind
pfgpowell-12 February 2014
Just as night follows day, ageing actors, especially those who were known for playing young rough, tough guys, are eventually suckered into this kind of film playing ageing rough, tough guys doing the 'one last thing' and showing that despite the grey hair and saggy neck they've still got what it takes.
Years ago I saw one of those films with Richard Burton, Richard Harris, Roger Moore and Stewart Granger called The Wild Geese. It was all about a bunch of former mercenaries getting together to show they still have what it takes, and it was embarrassing. Robert De Niro is currently starring in a new release which is more or less the same thing called Last Vegas ('Last' - geddit?). And about the only folk who like this sort of thing are ageing fans, the fifty, sixty, seventysomethings who in their hearts fondly believe that they still have what it takes. Well, there are few things as sad as self-delusion.
Gratifyingly, Stand Up Guys, the usual riff we know of old, somehow - somehow - manages to haul itself above the crowd and isn't quite as embarrassing as it might have been. That is partly down to the performances of all involved, not least Al Pacino and Christopher Walken, who have most of the screen real estate, but also those in the smaller parts. And this particular version of the old 'we've still got what it takes' standby is partially redeemed by a more realistic - well, almost more realistic - take on getting old and old age.
But at the end of the day it is still one of 'those films' with Pacino getting it up after downing a fistful of Viagra and Alan Arkin apparently satisfying two hookers so much in a threesome that both get sweet on him. I could have done without that approach which made the whole exercise definitely Tinseltown's version of Life rather than what you and I know is Life. (You could argue that we watch films to escape Life briefly, but if that is your view, I'll have to tell you I don't.) So there you have it: a well-made piece of sentimental schlock which boasts some entertaining acting. It's good enough if you have nothing better to do and want to pass the time of night, but don't get your hopes up too much, although it is a cut above the rest of its ilk.
Years ago I saw one of those films with Richard Burton, Richard Harris, Roger Moore and Stewart Granger called The Wild Geese. It was all about a bunch of former mercenaries getting together to show they still have what it takes, and it was embarrassing. Robert De Niro is currently starring in a new release which is more or less the same thing called Last Vegas ('Last' - geddit?). And about the only folk who like this sort of thing are ageing fans, the fifty, sixty, seventysomethings who in their hearts fondly believe that they still have what it takes. Well, there are few things as sad as self-delusion.
Gratifyingly, Stand Up Guys, the usual riff we know of old, somehow - somehow - manages to haul itself above the crowd and isn't quite as embarrassing as it might have been. That is partly down to the performances of all involved, not least Al Pacino and Christopher Walken, who have most of the screen real estate, but also those in the smaller parts. And this particular version of the old 'we've still got what it takes' standby is partially redeemed by a more realistic - well, almost more realistic - take on getting old and old age.
But at the end of the day it is still one of 'those films' with Pacino getting it up after downing a fistful of Viagra and Alan Arkin apparently satisfying two hookers so much in a threesome that both get sweet on him. I could have done without that approach which made the whole exercise definitely Tinseltown's version of Life rather than what you and I know is Life. (You could argue that we watch films to escape Life briefly, but if that is your view, I'll have to tell you I don't.) So there you have it: a well-made piece of sentimental schlock which boasts some entertaining acting. It's good enough if you have nothing better to do and want to pass the time of night, but don't get your hopes up too much, although it is a cut above the rest of its ilk.
Sit Down Guys
questl-1859213 December 2020
Walken! Pacino! Arken! Three legends together in a crime drama, the sort' end thing at least two of them are famous for! What could go wrong!?
Apparently, everything. This is bad. Real bad. You put these actors together and give them a solid script and just let them work but that's not this. All the dialogue felt clunky, forced, devoid of any gravitas or potency. The cinematography is so clunky that there are long stretches of the movie where I doubt Walken and Pacino were even on set the same day for their scene. I wanted them to just talk, for the camera to just sit there on them and let them flex their skills but there are so many cuts just in a basic conversation that it's endlessly distracting. Even the moments that should've been something felt phoned in and underwhelming. I just watched The Two Popes, I was hoping for that or at least a Heat scenario but instead there's just nothing.
Hard pass here. It's too clunky to be worth your time, that said, if you don't look at it or pay attention then it might be less distracting? No, still not worth it. Super disappointing that I have to recommend skipping this one.
Apparently, everything. This is bad. Real bad. You put these actors together and give them a solid script and just let them work but that's not this. All the dialogue felt clunky, forced, devoid of any gravitas or potency. The cinematography is so clunky that there are long stretches of the movie where I doubt Walken and Pacino were even on set the same day for their scene. I wanted them to just talk, for the camera to just sit there on them and let them flex their skills but there are so many cuts just in a basic conversation that it's endlessly distracting. Even the moments that should've been something felt phoned in and underwhelming. I just watched The Two Popes, I was hoping for that or at least a Heat scenario but instead there's just nothing.
Hard pass here. It's too clunky to be worth your time, that said, if you don't look at it or pay attention then it might be less distracting? No, still not worth it. Super disappointing that I have to recommend skipping this one.
Great ! Loved it!
marinkojason23 February 2013
I got out to the theater to catch this movie and could not of been more pleased. I laughed hysterically at the cynical humor and really enjoyed how as the story progressed I really got ensconced into these characters. Loved beginning to end. I especially enjoyed Vanessa Ferlito's(deathproof) appearance I look forward to see much more of her in future films. Allan Arkin was a great compliment to Pacino and Walkens lead. I found it unfortunate that on opening day of this movie there were only four showtimes.As I awaited entrance at the concession I felt supreme confidence when the previous showing let out and there was nothing but smiles on the faces of the patrons exiting the previous showing.
Disappointing Farewell
claudio_carvalho27 June 2013
After twenty-eight years in prison, Valentine "Val" (Al Pacino) is released on probation and his old friend Doc (Christopher Walken) waits for him to bring him home in his old car. Doc has been pressed along all of these years by the powerful mobster Claphands (Mark Margolis) to kill Val since he blames Val for the death of his son in a heist.
Val decides to spend the night going to a brothel but he fails and they rob Viagra from a pharmacy. Then they go to a night-club and Val dances with a girl. When they live the place, they steal a sport car that belongs to a dangerous gangster. They go to a nursing home to pick up their old friend Hirch (Alan Arkin) and together they revive the old times of their friendship. They find a naked woman called Sylvia (Vanessa Ferlito) in the trunk and Doc and Val help Sylvia to get even with the gang that kidnapped her. Meanwhile Val feels that Doc is assigned to kill him and his friend confirm that Claphands wants him dead until the next morning. When Claphands threatens Doc's granddaughter, Doc and Val decide to pay a visit the mob boss.
"Stand Up Guys" is an overrated and disappointing movie about aging, friendship and farewell. The plot is not funny and the characters are unpleasant. But the worst is the conclusion, or the lack of conclusion of the story. It is ridiculous how many pretentious directors (usually American directors) do not understand the difference between a movie with open end (usual in European movies – Claude Chabrol was the master) with a movie without an end. My vote is four.
Title (Brazil): "Amigos Inseparáveis" ("Inseparable Friends")
Val decides to spend the night going to a brothel but he fails and they rob Viagra from a pharmacy. Then they go to a night-club and Val dances with a girl. When they live the place, they steal a sport car that belongs to a dangerous gangster. They go to a nursing home to pick up their old friend Hirch (Alan Arkin) and together they revive the old times of their friendship. They find a naked woman called Sylvia (Vanessa Ferlito) in the trunk and Doc and Val help Sylvia to get even with the gang that kidnapped her. Meanwhile Val feels that Doc is assigned to kill him and his friend confirm that Claphands wants him dead until the next morning. When Claphands threatens Doc's granddaughter, Doc and Val decide to pay a visit the mob boss.
"Stand Up Guys" is an overrated and disappointing movie about aging, friendship and farewell. The plot is not funny and the characters are unpleasant. But the worst is the conclusion, or the lack of conclusion of the story. It is ridiculous how many pretentious directors (usually American directors) do not understand the difference between a movie with open end (usual in European movies – Claude Chabrol was the master) with a movie without an end. My vote is four.
Title (Brazil): "Amigos Inseparáveis" ("Inseparable Friends")
Pacino and Walken Make the Film
Michael_Elliott4 February 2013
Stand Up Guys (2012)
*** (out of 4)
Val (Al Pacino) gets released from prison twenty-eight years after taking the fall for a crime and not naming names. His best friend Doc (Christopher Walken) is there to meet him but also to be the one who pulls the hit on him. Soon the two men are out with a third buddy (Alan Arkin) and starting all kinds of trouble. If you're walking into STAND UP GUYS expecting to see some sort of masterpiece then you're going to be highly disappointed as the material itself is whether clichéd and by-the-numbers. If you're a fan of the three stars and just wanting some cheap fun then you should at least find this entertaining. The entire story is pretty silly as we're basically given a road trip movie without a big long trip. Instead of the three going around on a vacation, all the action takes place in a day and we see them get in all sorts of trouble while the Walken character must also come to terms with putting a bullet in his best friend. The journey these men go on include breaking into a pharmacy to get Viagra, going to prostitutes, starting fights, getting a young girl to dance and other things of this nature. The three are re-living their earlier days and for the most part I thought this offered up quite a few laughs and of course it works better than it should thanks to the three stars. Arkin's work here is pretty much a cameo but while he's on the screen he's a lot of fun. Pacino and Walken have no problem carrying the film and I thought they had some great chemistry together and this is easily seen. Pacino appears to be having a blast at getting to act bad but he never goes over-the-top and instead just gives a really good, really straight performance. Walken is also extremely laid back and gives one of his best performances in many years. Julianna Margulies has a nice supporting part as does Mark Margolis. Addison Timlin is excellent in her few scenes and hopefully we'll be seeing more out of her. The film's screenplay certainly isn't the greatest as we've got all sorts of familiar and predictable scenes. With that said, the three stars are simply so good that fans of theirs should really enjoy this one. It's certainly flawed but it's great getting to see the men working together.
*** (out of 4)
Val (Al Pacino) gets released from prison twenty-eight years after taking the fall for a crime and not naming names. His best friend Doc (Christopher Walken) is there to meet him but also to be the one who pulls the hit on him. Soon the two men are out with a third buddy (Alan Arkin) and starting all kinds of trouble. If you're walking into STAND UP GUYS expecting to see some sort of masterpiece then you're going to be highly disappointed as the material itself is whether clichéd and by-the-numbers. If you're a fan of the three stars and just wanting some cheap fun then you should at least find this entertaining. The entire story is pretty silly as we're basically given a road trip movie without a big long trip. Instead of the three going around on a vacation, all the action takes place in a day and we see them get in all sorts of trouble while the Walken character must also come to terms with putting a bullet in his best friend. The journey these men go on include breaking into a pharmacy to get Viagra, going to prostitutes, starting fights, getting a young girl to dance and other things of this nature. The three are re-living their earlier days and for the most part I thought this offered up quite a few laughs and of course it works better than it should thanks to the three stars. Arkin's work here is pretty much a cameo but while he's on the screen he's a lot of fun. Pacino and Walken have no problem carrying the film and I thought they had some great chemistry together and this is easily seen. Pacino appears to be having a blast at getting to act bad but he never goes over-the-top and instead just gives a really good, really straight performance. Walken is also extremely laid back and gives one of his best performances in many years. Julianna Margulies has a nice supporting part as does Mark Margolis. Addison Timlin is excellent in her few scenes and hopefully we'll be seeing more out of her. The film's screenplay certainly isn't the greatest as we've got all sorts of familiar and predictable scenes. With that said, the three stars are simply so good that fans of theirs should really enjoy this one. It's certainly flawed but it's great getting to see the men working together.
Uneven plot played better by great performers
BeneCumb7 February 2013
Although the plot is hectic and contains some really improbable events, the performances by 2 Academy Award winners - Al Pacino as Val and Christopher Walken as Doc - are wonderful, letting you to forget about the disharmonies (moreover, a nice supporting role is carried out by another Academy Award winner Alan Arkin as Richard Hirsch). In other words, top cast in a movie of a not-so-top director... I still had my laughs and giggles and was satisfied. And the ending was sophisticated - food for thought when the credits appeared, together with a nice song by Jon Bon Jovi.
Recommendable, but I can realize that Stand Up Guys would probably have a limited audience: most young people and women would skip it. It is a pity, of course.
Recommendable, but I can realize that Stand Up Guys would probably have a limited audience: most young people and women would skip it. It is a pity, of course.
Exclusively meant only for fans of Al Pac and Walken!
venkykp1021 May 2013
Though i have given the movie only a 6 out of a possible 10,i gotta say it is a thoroughly enjoyable watch.Only for fans of Christopher Walken,Al Pacino and/or Alan Arkin.For others the movie can come off as "lacking substance","a tad slow" or "uneventful"..Now forgive me for using such bland words in italics for a movie featuring star actors of yesteryear but its only to say this film was probably never meant to be eventful or fast paced or having any substance other than the thick satisfying good old camaraderie portrayed between a bunch of aged guys that Hollywood so easily can exploit given a simple storyline and a sufficient all star cast..The only part which is quite out of place is the dialogues which can get a bit boring especially for people who don't know what this cast is made of and can tend to ignore the tiny bits like facial expressions of the cast on which the direction seems to have relied a lot..
The plot though simple has enough instances to showcase the acting talents of the wonderfully great Al Pacino(put him in any movie,a true Godfather fan WILL watch)..it sometimes feels as if it s a safe carefully played bet purely meant for Al Pacino fans with his typical raw yet meaningful smiles,typical body language and bold style;but thats only critical to the screenwriters who you feel could have given him more.But then comparing this with other films can never do justice for just the same reasons.
Another actor who deserves special mention is the often underplayed underrated Chris Walken with his suave looks and expressionless yet revealing face..!he delivers 100 percent throughout even if he is just staring...Alan Arkin after his success in the wonderfully intricate Argo plays a sumptuous cameo( sadly its not long enough you feel;here is a special scenario when you feel three is never a crowd)..he just seems to fit exactly in the space between Al Pacino and Walken it just seems so right..But then this is compensated by the emotionally well portrayed last few bits of the movie which reveals brotherhood can travel a lot more outside the fun box..
In short a movie very reminiscent of these actors' wonderful talent supported by the essence of the film that is the lifelong brotherhood in addition to a more than average ending,this is a must watch for Al Pacino fans out there and yes "The Scent of a woman" star dances again..
This is my first review in IMDb..so kindly forgive any mishaps and hope it was useful in making a choice..!thanks
The plot though simple has enough instances to showcase the acting talents of the wonderfully great Al Pacino(put him in any movie,a true Godfather fan WILL watch)..it sometimes feels as if it s a safe carefully played bet purely meant for Al Pacino fans with his typical raw yet meaningful smiles,typical body language and bold style;but thats only critical to the screenwriters who you feel could have given him more.But then comparing this with other films can never do justice for just the same reasons.
Another actor who deserves special mention is the often underplayed underrated Chris Walken with his suave looks and expressionless yet revealing face..!he delivers 100 percent throughout even if he is just staring...Alan Arkin after his success in the wonderfully intricate Argo plays a sumptuous cameo( sadly its not long enough you feel;here is a special scenario when you feel three is never a crowd)..he just seems to fit exactly in the space between Al Pacino and Walken it just seems so right..But then this is compensated by the emotionally well portrayed last few bits of the movie which reveals brotherhood can travel a lot more outside the fun box..
In short a movie very reminiscent of these actors' wonderful talent supported by the essence of the film that is the lifelong brotherhood in addition to a more than average ending,this is a must watch for Al Pacino fans out there and yes "The Scent of a woman" star dances again..
This is my first review in IMDb..so kindly forgive any mishaps and hope it was useful in making a choice..!thanks
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