Review of Deuces Wild (2002) by Drew D — 14 Mar 2009

Scott Kalvert's tale of escalating gang violence in a Brooklyn Italian-American neighborhood during the summer of 1958 is WEST SIDE STORY without the singing and dancing. Leon (Stephen Dorff) leads the Deuces, a gang he formed to keep "junk" off his Sunset Park block after his youngest brother died of a drug overdose.

However, his other brother, Bobby (Brad Renfro), is still alive and very hotheaded, and with their greaser gang mates, they keep themselves busy. When the rival gang, the Vipers, look to start a drug business in Deuces territory, Leon goes to Mob leader, Fritzy (Matt Dillon, playing a more senior thug than in his OUTSIDERS/RUMBLE FISH days).

He asks for help, but in vain. While Leon worries about a gang war, Bobby chases after pretty, smart-mouthed Annie (Fairuza Balk), who just happens to be the sister of Jimmy Pockets (Balthazar Getty), a coked-up Viper.

More trouble brews when Marco Vendetti (Norman Reedus), the drug dealer Leon holds responsible for his kid brother's death, is released from prison. When the big rumble comes, it forever changes the neighborhood in this story of loyalty, violence, and star-crossed love.

A bit too familiar and occasionally melodramatic, Deuces Wild clicks nonetheless, thanks to a gritty screenplay and tight direction.