I liked Maniac it takes you on a trip inside the world of a man who's life is unraveling before your eyes. Bill Sorvino and Joseph D'onofrio's performances are a true testament to Sam Borowski's direction. This short film has all the emotional stages of a man on the edge of breakdown. I was taken back by Sorvino's performance especially in the scene that takes place inside of a local convenience store, not to mention D'onofrio's exciting and classic scene's as the pimp who takes advantage of a hooker who is so ignorant she's bordering on dumb. The part of the hooker (Gina) was played by Paige Wilhide along side D'onofrio she really pulls it off. I would like to see more from Sam Borowski and Maniac.
14 Reviews
MANIAC knocks 'em dead at the Rhode Island Film Festival!
vze29r3v13 August 2013
Warning: Spoilers
Had the pleasure of attending the World Premiere of "Maniac," at the Rhode Island International Film Festival, and it was quite an experience.
The film itself was shot in an interesting fashion: Award-Winning Filmmaker Sam Borowski explained how even though it was filmed with the RED Epic camera, an old 1970s photographic lens was installed to give it that filmic seventies feel. And, it really pays off.
As does the performance of Bill Sorvino, playing the character of "The Man," a 'Travis Bickle-like' citizen who goes a little over-the-edge following a chain of tragic events that are revealed later on in the film.
Borowski's direction is evident as the film is rife with tremendous performances. While Sorvino anchors the film well, Joey D'Onofrio, who many of you remember as 'Slick' in "A Bronx Tale," and some of you will remember as the young Tommy in "Goodfellas," plays a major supporting role as a nasty, violent pimp. And, look for a special performance from David Harris playing a Deli Owner. Harris you may remember played "Cochise," in the Walter Hill film, "The Warriors." "Maniac" offers two different sides of several important social and societal issues and leaves the viewer with the ability to form their own opinion. Homages to several seventies flicks, most prominently "Taxi Driver," only serve to make the film more enjoyable, even through the violence and serious subtext.
Borowski's direction paired with the actor's performances and the music as well, seem to be a recipe for a possible future Oscar nomination in the Live-Action Short category. "Maniac" is slated to be playing at several festivals over the next few months and experience it for yourselves.
The film itself was shot in an interesting fashion: Award-Winning Filmmaker Sam Borowski explained how even though it was filmed with the RED Epic camera, an old 1970s photographic lens was installed to give it that filmic seventies feel. And, it really pays off.
As does the performance of Bill Sorvino, playing the character of "The Man," a 'Travis Bickle-like' citizen who goes a little over-the-edge following a chain of tragic events that are revealed later on in the film.
Borowski's direction is evident as the film is rife with tremendous performances. While Sorvino anchors the film well, Joey D'Onofrio, who many of you remember as 'Slick' in "A Bronx Tale," and some of you will remember as the young Tommy in "Goodfellas," plays a major supporting role as a nasty, violent pimp. And, look for a special performance from David Harris playing a Deli Owner. Harris you may remember played "Cochise," in the Walter Hill film, "The Warriors." "Maniac" offers two different sides of several important social and societal issues and leaves the viewer with the ability to form their own opinion. Homages to several seventies flicks, most prominently "Taxi Driver," only serve to make the film more enjoyable, even through the violence and serious subtext.
Borowski's direction paired with the actor's performances and the music as well, seem to be a recipe for a possible future Oscar nomination in the Live-Action Short category. "Maniac" is slated to be playing at several festivals over the next few months and experience it for yourselves.
Serious Social Implications
prprincess9013 August 2013
Warning: Spoilers
Maniac is living proof that a movie can be both entertaining and still have serious social and economical implications.
Directed and produced by Sam Borowski, this film World Premiered at the FLICKERS RIFF last weekend. Having seen many films pass through our festival, I was quite impressed with both the duality Borowski presented, as well as the fine line he towed with the film's tone.
There is much humor, however, you must be careful not to miss the serious implications in the sub-text. The film opens with an un-named character played very nicely by Bill Sorvino, committing an unseen brutal act of violence and then showing almost immediate remorse.
We can see that this character is somewhat disturbed, however, what tears at the viewer is the fact that he seems to be motivated by protecting the weaker people, and by stopping the "bad people." That creates a real inner-turmoil for the viewer who is not sure what to feel about Sorvino's un-named character. The supporting cast is very good, including many known character actors such as Joseph D'onofrio (A Bronx Tale) and David Harris (The Warriors). Nice performances are also turned in by some up-and-comers, who round out a very talented cast.
And Borowski's squeezes every drop of emotion and humor out of every last one of them, always the mark of a great director. He also uses various sound-effects and a unique look to present the story in a very entertaining way. But, when you stop and look at the picture itself, it does deal with very serious subject matter, and Borowski doesn't let us forget that.
In fact, that final scene leaves the viewer with much to contemplate.
Directed and produced by Sam Borowski, this film World Premiered at the FLICKERS RIFF last weekend. Having seen many films pass through our festival, I was quite impressed with both the duality Borowski presented, as well as the fine line he towed with the film's tone.
There is much humor, however, you must be careful not to miss the serious implications in the sub-text. The film opens with an un-named character played very nicely by Bill Sorvino, committing an unseen brutal act of violence and then showing almost immediate remorse.
We can see that this character is somewhat disturbed, however, what tears at the viewer is the fact that he seems to be motivated by protecting the weaker people, and by stopping the "bad people." That creates a real inner-turmoil for the viewer who is not sure what to feel about Sorvino's un-named character. The supporting cast is very good, including many known character actors such as Joseph D'onofrio (A Bronx Tale) and David Harris (The Warriors). Nice performances are also turned in by some up-and-comers, who round out a very talented cast.
And Borowski's squeezes every drop of emotion and humor out of every last one of them, always the mark of a great director. He also uses various sound-effects and a unique look to present the story in a very entertaining way. But, when you stop and look at the picture itself, it does deal with very serious subject matter, and Borowski doesn't let us forget that.
In fact, that final scene leaves the viewer with much to contemplate.
Thrilling with a powerful message!
tonfroy9018 August 2013
From beginning to end, this short was packed with an array of spine tingling scenes. Bill Sorvino, along with the rest of the cast did quite the job embodying the serious elements of this story.
This is a very thought provoking film with the potential to make an impact on its viewers. It already seems to be making one heck of a buzz in the festivals. Director Sam Borowski really displayed his undeniable talents with this one. Along with a rock star cast consisting of David Harris from 1979's "The Warriors" and Joe D'Onofrio from "Goodfellas", you can be sure to expect a great show of performance.
Be sure to look out for this possible Oscar nomination film as it will be playing at several festivals over the next few months.
This is a very thought provoking film with the potential to make an impact on its viewers. It already seems to be making one heck of a buzz in the festivals. Director Sam Borowski really displayed his undeniable talents with this one. Along with a rock star cast consisting of David Harris from 1979's "The Warriors" and Joe D'Onofrio from "Goodfellas", you can be sure to expect a great show of performance.
Be sure to look out for this possible Oscar nomination film as it will be playing at several festivals over the next few months.
A great movie! Watch out for Sam Borowski!
jebharris15 May 2014
There's a lot that I could say about this movie... I will say only one thing: AMAZING! Sam Borowski's genius as a director definitely shows through this film!
Maniac will make you laugh, cry and think as it hurls you into this world. Bill Sorvino (The Man) does an amazing job as the main role and the relationship between Joe D'Onofrio (Johnny Ramone) and Paige Wilhide (Gina) will somehow make you laugh and grit your teeth at the same time.
Sam Borowski has definitely created a wonderful piece of art. His direction and genius is self- evident in this film. Be ready for a film you will not soon forget.
Maniac will make you laugh, cry and think as it hurls you into this world. Bill Sorvino (The Man) does an amazing job as the main role and the relationship between Joe D'Onofrio (Johnny Ramone) and Paige Wilhide (Gina) will somehow make you laugh and grit your teeth at the same time.
Sam Borowski has definitely created a wonderful piece of art. His direction and genius is self- evident in this film. Be ready for a film you will not soon forget.
Mysterious, Creepy, Cool film
mkelso200015 August 2013
Warning: Spoilers
I was looking forward to seeing this film and I was not disappointed. The overall feel was kind of a throwback to the films of the 1970s. The locations seemed very authentic and the score gave that uneasy feeling that Bill Sorvino as The Man portrays.
The thing I enjoyed the most was the mystery. You don't really know what's going on or the main characters motivation until later in the film. There are some early hints but because the explanation is withheld, it engulfs you even more into the story.
And as I'm a fan of unconventional movies I liked that the end was open for the audience to determine. Overall it was a very cool film that has a nostalgic feel to it.
The thing I enjoyed the most was the mystery. You don't really know what's going on or the main characters motivation until later in the film. There are some early hints but because the explanation is withheld, it engulfs you even more into the story.
And as I'm a fan of unconventional movies I liked that the end was open for the audience to determine. Overall it was a very cool film that has a nostalgic feel to it.
Terrific short that packs one hell of a punch
Woodyanders14 August 2013
Warning: Spoilers
An angry, disturbed, and disgruntled man (an excellent and convincing performance by Bill Sorvino) decides to take the law into his own hands by getting rid of various evil folks who pose a threat to decent law-abiding citizens. But is the man just as dangerous or perhaps even more dangerous than the criminals who incur his wrath and vengeance? Director Sam Borowski and writer Nihad Shalabi firmly ground the story in a believably drab and seamy everyday reality while making a powerful and provocative central statement on how vigilantism creates more problems than it solves. Sorvino astutely nails the anguish of the troubled protagonist: While the man evokes the viewer's sympathy, he nonetheless also comes across as a frightening individual due to his unbalanced mental state and propensity for sudden brutal violence. It's this element of refreshing and challenging complexity that gives this short an extra potent dramatic impact. Moreover, the sterling acting by the tip-top cast rates as another major asset, with especially praiseworthy contributions by Joe D'Onofrio as mean sleazeball pimp Johnny Ramone, David Harris as a deli owner, Paige Wilhide as pathetic hooker Gina, and Maria Rusolo as the man's worried sister Lisa. William Schweikert's cinematography neatly captures the gritty look of vintage 70's urban exploitation fare. Great bluesy rock soundtrack, too. Highly recommended.
A Stylish and Provocative Portrait
DanielMcQueary15 May 2014
Warning: Spoilers
I had the great privilege of viewing this provocative gem inside a packed venue at the Golden Door International Film Festival of Jersey City, and the audience response was nothing short of stellar. Headlined by a powerful lead performance by Bill Sorvino and complimented by a terrific supporting ensemble, including legendary character actors Joe D'Onofrio (Goodfellas) and David Harris (The Warriors), Director Sam Borowski skillfully weaves this emotionally-charged crime drama that draws heavily upon the gritty aesthetics and challenging morality themes not often explored in American films since the 1970's. Both heartbreaking and surprisingly invigorating, "Maniac" is not to be missed!
Maniac rocks!
greggprosser17 May 2014
Warning: Spoilers
I had the pleasure of seeing Maniac at the Best of the Fest, a Northeast Film Festival event. It played to a large audience who were captivated by this great short. The acting was spot on, Bill Sorvino was great in the lead. The supporting cast was amazing especially Joseph D'Onofrio and David Harris. Sam Borowski did a wonderful job bringing this gritty story to life. Mr. Borowski story telling talent is in full display and the images of a man struggling with right and wrong will not be forgotten. My favorite short films always bring social conscience into question. You will leave this film wondering about justice and the fine line we draw when it comes into question. Maniac takes you on an exploration of one mans struggle between right and wrong. I highly recommend you see this film. Good job by all involved.
Enjoyed Maniac (2013)
judyr03-786-1490708 September 2013
Warning: Spoilers
Maniac was very enjoyable to watch. It was interesting that the main actor's role evoked conflicting feelings at times about him and what he was doing. I enjoyed the movie also since it could evoke discussion about it after seeing it. I would like to see another movie in the future that would focus on what led up to the actor being violent in the beginning of the movie. I saw the movie at the 30th Long Island Film Festival. It also was so much fun to meet and talk to all the actors, not to leave out Producer and Director Sam Borowski.
Bill Sorvino, as the main actor, was excellent in this movie. The other actors Joe D'Onofrio (who previously acted in Goodfellows and A Bronx Tale), and David Harris ( who previously acted in The Warriors, and was also the lead and supporting roles in Oscar nominated Brubaker and A Soldiers Story)were excellent in their acting. This is a movie that should win an award.
Bill Sorvino, as the main actor, was excellent in this movie. The other actors Joe D'Onofrio (who previously acted in Goodfellows and A Bronx Tale), and David Harris ( who previously acted in The Warriors, and was also the lead and supporting roles in Oscar nominated Brubaker and A Soldiers Story)were excellent in their acting. This is a movie that should win an award.
Gripping and gritty
vikmetrang19 August 2013
Sam Borowski's MANIAC is a gripping drama with a gritty look like a 1970s film (kudos to cinematographer Bill Schweikert for that, too). Fans of TAXI DRIVER will definitely see some similarities, as will those fans of FALLING DOWN and any other solid movie or TV series that shows a man at his breaking point with society. An outstanding performance turned in by Bill Sorvino, who commandeers the screen. Even though this is a short film and not a full-length feature, it still delivers the emotional punch of a major movie. In fact, one of the positives of it being a short film is that it cuts to the chase. This movie isn't padded with filler or unnecessary subplots and meaningless characters. Everyone contributes to its success.
Saw Maniac, what a thrill ride
fspirzada-788-71506211 September 2013
Over the past weekend I had the pleasure of attending The Long Island Film Festival to see the highly anticipated movie Maniac, directed by Sam Borowski with a star studded cast of Bill Sorvino, Joe D' Onofrio, and David Harris. At the Q&A following the screening I learned that it was filmed on the Red-Epic camera to give the film that 1970's picturesque look. I can equate this movie to 1970's TAXI DRIVER meets 2009 LAW ABIDING CITIZEN. MANIAC was surely worth the hype that the critics raved about, i was at edge of my seat from start to end, didn't want the movie to end knowing it was only a 23 min short film. Sam Borowski a multi talented award winning director really has an eye for pacing that holds your attention for the duration.
What can you say about the Star of the movie; the multi talented actor Bill Sorvino. His portrayal of a un-named rogue character who is emotionally disturbed and is on a mission is to help the less fortunate takes the law into his own hands in a such a silent suave way that you cant help to love him. Sorvino's performance of The Man was so brilliantly acted that you can actually feel his dark side, pain, and the tragic events from his past that lead him to his actions in the movie. I already can see THE Oscar BUZZ for a nomination in the Live- Action Short Category not to mention the Best Actor in the category.
While Bill Sorvino rifled the movie to great heights, the brilliant acting by his supporting cast help drive the film home in tremendous fashion (Joey D' Onofrio who many of you remember from "Goodfellas" and A Bronx Tale" and David Harris from 1979 "The Warriors" and "A Soldier Story". The rest of the cast are also praiseworthy of there performances, Paige Wilhide, Maris Rusolo, Anthony Palino, and Mary Dimino, and the cast goes on.
What can you say about the Star of the movie; the multi talented actor Bill Sorvino. His portrayal of a un-named rogue character who is emotionally disturbed and is on a mission is to help the less fortunate takes the law into his own hands in a such a silent suave way that you cant help to love him. Sorvino's performance of The Man was so brilliantly acted that you can actually feel his dark side, pain, and the tragic events from his past that lead him to his actions in the movie. I already can see THE Oscar BUZZ for a nomination in the Live- Action Short Category not to mention the Best Actor in the category.
While Bill Sorvino rifled the movie to great heights, the brilliant acting by his supporting cast help drive the film home in tremendous fashion (Joey D' Onofrio who many of you remember from "Goodfellas" and A Bronx Tale" and David Harris from 1979 "The Warriors" and "A Soldier Story". The rest of the cast are also praiseworthy of there performances, Paige Wilhide, Maris Rusolo, Anthony Palino, and Mary Dimino, and the cast goes on.
Guilt and redemption to the max in "Maniac"
scottessman5 June 2014
Warning: Spoilers
In the 2000 short film "Havoc," director Ori Greenberg (1977-2001) staged a climactic armed confrontation in a Southern California convenience store to portray, as stated in the film's opening titles, how anarchy might intersect with chaos, resulting in the titular havoc that he teased in those same initial moments of the film. Now that Greenberg has passed, observers will never know if he was able to realize the visceral potential he showed with "Havoc," but Sam Borowski's thriller "Maniac" displays much of Greenberg's daring choices in a parallel venue albeit one decidedly shot on the East Coast. Treading similar tri-state territory as can be found in the feature films "The Wrestler" and "Big Fan," Borowski's choice of locations to bring forth his own version of chaos and anarchy in his characters' lives works as effectively as Greenberg's locales did for his own short film. A series of verité scenarios give "Maniac" another leading character of sorts to supplement the already rich cast. New York is certainly all over this film though it is the surrounding territories in favor of the city itself which provides "Maniac" with its memorable backdrop.
Carrying the film is lead Bill Sorvino of the notable Sorvino acting family. The former Bill is so convincingly heartbroken by his actions in the film, it begs the question why he hasn't been offered feature film work of a similar quality. Sorvino is a troubled soul deep to his core, and Borowski directs him with the subtle touch which has made for other great New York-area director-actor pairings in recent memory, certainly included but not limited to Martin Scorsese and Robert DeNiro, Spike Lee and Denzel Washington, and Brian DePalma and John Travolta.
Solidifying the New York-area theme for keen observers, David Harris from the 1979 surreal gang epic "The Warriors" makes a cameo that is both welcome and singular. Notable other cast members include Joey D'Onofrio, a Scorsese alumnus, as a despicable pimp who might recall Harvey Keitel's equally guttural character in "Taxi Driver." One scene where Sorvino confronts D'Onofrio face-to-face quotes "Taxi Driver" but offers its own spin on the title character's madness and sense of finding the redemption in his guilt over a separate act of violence. One of "Maniac's" themes might be that one cannot help who he or she is destined to be, and the undercurrent of this briskly told 23-minute film is that events which drive us to madness may also inspire unforeseen acts of kindness and vigilance in even the least among us. Nihad Shalabi's screenplay offers how just one such person might react in public given the most unpredictable of circumstances.
Shot by cinematographer William Schweikert in the stark winter, "Maniac" irrevocably suggests a cast and crew to watch in the very near future.
Carrying the film is lead Bill Sorvino of the notable Sorvino acting family. The former Bill is so convincingly heartbroken by his actions in the film, it begs the question why he hasn't been offered feature film work of a similar quality. Sorvino is a troubled soul deep to his core, and Borowski directs him with the subtle touch which has made for other great New York-area director-actor pairings in recent memory, certainly included but not limited to Martin Scorsese and Robert DeNiro, Spike Lee and Denzel Washington, and Brian DePalma and John Travolta.
Solidifying the New York-area theme for keen observers, David Harris from the 1979 surreal gang epic "The Warriors" makes a cameo that is both welcome and singular. Notable other cast members include Joey D'Onofrio, a Scorsese alumnus, as a despicable pimp who might recall Harvey Keitel's equally guttural character in "Taxi Driver." One scene where Sorvino confronts D'Onofrio face-to-face quotes "Taxi Driver" but offers its own spin on the title character's madness and sense of finding the redemption in his guilt over a separate act of violence. One of "Maniac's" themes might be that one cannot help who he or she is destined to be, and the undercurrent of this briskly told 23-minute film is that events which drive us to madness may also inspire unforeseen acts of kindness and vigilance in even the least among us. Nihad Shalabi's screenplay offers how just one such person might react in public given the most unpredictable of circumstances.
Shot by cinematographer William Schweikert in the stark winter, "Maniac" irrevocably suggests a cast and crew to watch in the very near future.
Maniac Review
joshuatrunyon2 August 2014
MANIAC is intriguing from start to finish, jam packed with mystery & action. Tarantino meets The Punisher in a film that questions whether society truly favors justice or vengeance.
The direction by Sam Borowski was superb, the soundtrack was solid & fitting, and there were some solid performances by the cast, especially by Bill Sorvino, Joe D'Onofrio, Maria Rusolo, & David Harris. The story of the movie is reminiscent of the gritty realism found in the films of the 1970s.
This short film's ending leaves the audience wanting for more MANIAC- a sequel, be it another short or a full feature. 9/10
The direction by Sam Borowski was superb, the soundtrack was solid & fitting, and there were some solid performances by the cast, especially by Bill Sorvino, Joe D'Onofrio, Maria Rusolo, & David Harris. The story of the movie is reminiscent of the gritty realism found in the films of the 1970s.
This short film's ending leaves the audience wanting for more MANIAC- a sequel, be it another short or a full feature. 9/10
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