David (an excellent portrayal by Lee Strasberg) and Becky Rosen (a fine and moving performance by Ruth Gordan) are an elderly Jewish couple on the verge of celebrating their 50th wedding anniversary who reside in a crumbling Coney Island neighborhood that's fallen prey to a street gang led by the vicious Strut (nicely played with seething menace by Kim Delgado). Moreover, Becky is having issues with her health.
Director Stephen Verona, who also co-wrote the hard-hitting script with Leigh Chapman, relates the compelling story at a steady pace, offers a vivid evocation of the rundown urban setting, astutely captures a strong sense of despair and decay, and maintains a tough serious tone throughout. Strasberg and Gordon make for a sweet and endearing pair; the fierce love that these two feel for each other gives this film a substantial wrenching poignancy. In addition, there are sturdy supporting contributions from Janet Leigh as loyal and concerned daughter Florence, Joe Silver as gruff son Leo, Michael Ayr as feckless, but decent aspiring rock singer grandson Peter, and Lillian Roth as kindly widow Ruth. The surprisingly violent conclusion packs a startling punch. The sharp cinematography by Billy Williams provides an impressive polished look. Worth a watch.
Director Stephen Verona, who also co-wrote the hard-hitting script with Leigh Chapman, relates the compelling story at a steady pace, offers a vivid evocation of the rundown urban setting, astutely captures a strong sense of despair and decay, and maintains a tough serious tone throughout. Strasberg and Gordon make for a sweet and endearing pair; the fierce love that these two feel for each other gives this film a substantial wrenching poignancy. In addition, there are sturdy supporting contributions from Janet Leigh as loyal and concerned daughter Florence, Joe Silver as gruff son Leo, Michael Ayr as feckless, but decent aspiring rock singer grandson Peter, and Lillian Roth as kindly widow Ruth. The surprisingly violent conclusion packs a startling punch. The sharp cinematography by Billy Williams provides an impressive polished look. Worth a watch.