Poolhall Junkies Movie Review 2002

Johnny Doyle (writer-director Callahan) is a pool hustler who always aspired to greatness, and could've had it. His mentor/backer Joe (Palminteri) sabotaged his chance at the pro tour a while back. When Johnny left him, Joe broke his wrist and found himself a new boy, Brad (Schroder). Johnny impresses his girlfriend's uncle Mike (Walken) who agrees to bankroll his road to the final showdown with Brad and Joe. Gritty but enthusiastic debut for Callahan doesn't wallow in cliches, it revels in 'em. Fortunately, it all works because of Callahan's obvious joy at getting to make the movie, the work of the elder actors (including Steiger in his last role), and the good sense of the younger ones to stay out of their way. Walken's performance alone is worth the price of a rental. Excellent pool hall action makes up for the times Walken's not on screen.

Distribution

HBO, 1100 Ave. of the Americas, New York, NY 10036, Phone: (212)512-7400, Fax: (212)512-7498, URL: http://www.hbo.com, Remarks: Online sales through www.store.hbo.com

Available on VHS, DVD
Running time 94 minutes.
Originally from United States.

Cast and Crew

Genres

Pool, Gambling, Aunts & Uncles, Nieces & Nephews

Screenplay

Mars Callahan, Chris Corso

Cast

Mars Callahan, Michael Rosenbaum, Chazz Palminteri, Rod Steiger, Christopher Walken, Rick Schroder, Alison Eastwood, Glenn Plummer, Ernie Reyes, Peter Mark Richman, Anson Mount

Cinematography

Robert Morris

Director

Mars Callahan

Music

Richard Glasser

Other

Peter Geoco, James Tooley, Newt Lee, Kristin Petersen, Robert Laliberte

Producer

Vincent Newman, Karen Beninati, Catherine Bailey, Gold Circle Films