Review of Buffalo '66 (1998) by Riyadh H — 22 Aug 2009
Actor Vincent Gallo made his writing and directing debut with this low-budget little independent film. Which looks like it was made in the 1970's, and is an enjoyable and quirky little dramedy. It's very offbeat, but it passes by quickly.
It starts with Billy Brown (Gallo) being released from prison after 5 years inside, and unsure what to do next with his life. On an act of pure impulse, he kidnaps teenage tap-dancing student Layla (Christina Ricci), and asks her to pose as his wife to his parents.
Reluctantly, she says yes. They visit his parents (Anjelica Huston and Ben Gazzara), But, his parent's couldn't care less about their son, they're more interested in the Super Bowl, and the local team, the Buffalo Bills.
They hate Billy even more as he was born on the day they lost in 1966. So, Billy decides to kill the man who caused the team to lose, but Layla is becoming more attracted to Billy, even though he kidnapped her.
It's very offbeat, and the snow-swept industrial setting of Buffalo, New York gives it an odd grimness. Gallo multitasks well in the role, even if there's alot of ego on show, and Ricci makes for a different kind of squeeze.
Look out for appearances from Rosanna Arquette and Mickey Rourke.
This review of Buffalo '66 (1998) was written by Riyadh H on 22 Aug 2009.
Buffalo '66 has generally received very positive reviews.
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