This film came and left the movie theaters, so I think I had seen it on HBO when it finally got there. But the fact that so few have written a review about this movie further underlines how few people have probably seen it. Which is a shame, because it's a very well-done, sensitive film, and a Best 10 film for 1980, at the very least. James Caan's performance is definitely against type, and he does a great job as the down-on-his-luck, blue-collar father who seemingly can't catch a break. Anyone who's expecting the macho character that he played in The Godfather or Rollerball will be very much surprised by this role. And the ending is so sweet and sensitive, if you're not choked up by it, then maybe you have ice water in your veins.
My only criticism is the casting of Danny Aiello as the great lawyer who's going to help him out and waive his fee. As the owner of Sal's Pizzeria in "Do the Right Thing," he's believable. As a wealthy, high-end lawyer, he's not.
My only criticism is the casting of Danny Aiello as the great lawyer who's going to help him out and waive his fee. As the owner of Sal's Pizzeria in "Do the Right Thing," he's believable. As a wealthy, high-end lawyer, he's not.