Review of Welcome to the Rileys (2010) by Raul V — 14 Feb 2011

In my opinion, a damn good little independent character piece. James Gandolfini ("The Sopranos") plays out of type in this film as a small business owner in New Orleans for a convention, quietly coping with his failing marriage & other personal issues.

He befriends Kristen Stewart ("Adventureland" & "The Runaways"), playing a horribly damaged & freakishly misguided 16 year old stripper/prostitute, hoping to be of some help before she hits the point of no return.

Melissa Leo ("The Fighter" & "Frozen River") plays Gandolfini's wife who is also trying to work through her own issues, including a tremendous case of agoraphobia brought on by a personal loss in the family.

Interesting realism with the setting in New Orleans. Good script. Gandolfini & Leo prove their worth as polished pros throughout, albeit in very subtle ways. Stewart, I think, gives her rawest & best performance to date.

It's a shame this film never saw the light of day in theaters...at least not around these parts. My guess is that some studio heads did not want their image of "Bella" tarnished in anyway by having too many people see this film.

It sucks...she can actually fuckin' act in this one. DEFINITELY NOT FOR EVERYBODY!!! A bit of an acquired taste for sure. For more than a handful out there it should worth the rent.