American Buffalo Movie Review 1995

Somewhat lackluster but decent screen adaptation of a classic American drama. Franz's junk shop owner Donny plans to steal back a rare Buffalo-head nickel that he feels he was swindled out of, with the help of his protege Bobby (Nelson). Hoffman's ferret-like Teach, one of Donny's card-playing buddies and an arrogant opportunist, tries to weasel in on the plan that never comes to fruition. Set in Corrente's hometown of Pawtucket, the director's reverence for the material is obvious and he plays it too safe. Top-notch performances raise the level. Mamet adapts his play for the screen.

Distribution

Evergreen Entertainment, 6100 Wilshire Blvd., Ste. 1400, Los Angeles, CA 90048, Phone: (213)634-3000, Fax: (213)549-3760

Available on VHS, DVD
Running time 88 minutes.

Cast and Crew

Genres

Plays to Film: David Mamet, Adapted from a Play, Scams, Stings & Cons, Revenge, Hard Knock Life

Screenplay

David Mamet

Cast

Dustin Hoffman, Dennis Franz, Sean Nelson

Cinematography

Richard Crudo

Director

Michael Corrente

Music

Thomas Newman

Producer

Gregory Mosher, John Sloss, Capitol Films, Punch Productions, Samuel Goldwyn Company