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This movie is a harsh reminder of the predicament that some people can find themselves in when their finances are scarce and the bills of life keep mounting.
Juan Vazquez did a wonderful job of depicting the all too often scenario of a corrupt politician, and how he can manipulate and interrupt the lives of those whom he despises...and how the QUICK flow of cash makes drug dealing appealing.
The locations and the cinematography are great. Having the often cast 'bad boy,' Danny Trejo to lead in this film gave it an air of authencity.
Pablo Bracho carried the film in his much believable role as the embattled community activist, Jaime Flores. The attorneys (Prosecution/Defense) were also well chosen and believable actors.
Jaime's birthday party was wonderfully inserted into the grim storyline, and the group that performed did an awesome job.
For me, the weaker parts of the film were the ones where actors delivered flat lines, and were without viable emotion - (IN NO PARTICULARORDER) - the "Pimp," the pool hall scene before the fight broke out between Jaime and his brother against the other guys, the topless girls packaging drugs, the police detective 'strong arming' the witness, and the first meeting between Congressman Cook and the developer - just to name a few.
The news anchor that announced the passing of the bill was not believable. She was yelling into the mic/camera in a manner that I have never seen depicted before, whether in real time or in another movie. She didn't carry that role very well, and when she tried to get an interview with the defense attorney, (when the verdict was in) it had me amused more than impressed.
All in all the film is worth seeing, as the message is so profound. However, it is my sincere hope that Mr. Vazquez seeks the help of more viable actors when embarking on his next endeavor.
Who you put in front of the camera will very well dictate the satisfaction of those who will sit in front of their television sets to watch it.
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