Described as a ‘companion’ movie to 1995 hit Smoke, was filmed in just five days even using some of the same sets – and it all works beautifully.Basically an exercise in improvisation, the movie centres on Augie Wren (Harvey Keitel) and the Brooklyn cigar store he’s run since he can remember. Only a health food chain have offered to buy Augie out and he’s seriously considering their offer but as news spreads, various characters from the area all drop by to give him their thoughts on his dilemma.Packed with some cracking dialogue, the stars were queuing up to appear in this little gem – that’s why Madonna, Lou Reed, Michael J. Fox and Roseanne all contribute to the eclectic casting – but it’s the criminally underrated Keitel who holds things together.Wry, dry and more than a little strange, this dialogue heavy outing deserves a good look.Source: mrib movie reviews
