Michael Neumann
The memorable debut feature by Matty Rich begins by asking the question: what do you know about being black? The answer is a familiar but powerful display of rage and desperation, set in the same, miserable Red Hook housing project where Rich himself grew up. It's a simple, straightforward film, surprisingly polished given the inexperience behind the camera (the entire cast and crew were hired through newspaper want ads), and remarkable because writer/director/producer Rich was only 19 years old when the film was released. His basic plot, about an angry teenager's reckless plan to escape the cycle of poverty by robbing a local drug lord, is direct and unambiguous, and the outline hasn't been embellished by any visual style. But the understated script and a talented cast transform what could have been a hopeless melodrama into a gripping, heartfelt tragedy (but not entirely grim: a measure of humor is provided by some inspired comic banter).Postcript: at the time I thought the film might have trouble surviving the rush of 1991 summer blockbusters, but Matty Rich was a name to remember: he already showed more confidence and depth of feeling than many veteran directors. Sadly, that potential was never fulfilled: Rich would direct only one more feature before disappearing into undeserved obscurity.
MarieGabrielle
Being from NY originally, one often drives by the Red Hook section, this film doesn't skim the surface, everyone should see it.While it was a low budget film, the acting is first-rate. George Odom is the father, I also thought the mother was realistically portrayed by Ann D. Sanders... as a woman who simply has no options, and is worried about her son and daughter. When she tries to get help from the employment agency, we see the hypocrisy of the counselor, telling her to get help, when she clearly has no intention of offering help.Larry Gilliard Jr. is excellent as Dennis (he also had a recent role in "The Machinist", with Christian Bale, where he was quite good). This movie is worth seeing because you feel for the characters, it is not just gratuitous violence, and deals with the mindset of the characters.Hopefully, Matty Rich will make more movies of this genre. Highly recommended.
DunnDeeDaGreat
Straight Out of Brookyln is a film similar to Boyz N The Hood, excpet it's set in New York. The film about three friends is very moving and deep and it's shame it didn't get a wider release. Matty Rich proved his talent with this film as a director, it's a shame that he didn't have the success he deserves.
pwmoses
This film has many flaws, but many strengths as well. Many luminaries in the film industry have openly criticized this film. I feel much of this is unjustified, because a lot was done on a miniscule budget here. There is also a great performance in George T. Odom's portrayal of the fed up father who has been beaten down by racism. Anyone who has grown up in a low income household can relate to that situation. The ending is sad and real. Also especially noteworthy is Harold Wheeler's excellent and despondent musical score.
AD
