Young Lion of the West

Even if you're not a fan of Netflixes Blockbuster TV game show The Circle and its first winner, the lead actor Joey Sasso, you're still going to appreciate this compelling Tale of a Rochester, New York kid from the streets trying to make something of himself while still keeping his head above water amidst all the decadence, debauchery and mayhem that the dark side of life has to offer. For a low budget independent film, this has amazingly high production value. There were only maybe two scenes where the sound could have been a little bit better. However, for most of the entire movie the camera angles, the sound, the lighting, the pace of the story and an obviously great editing job holding it all together were top notch. Really, it's a great work by the whole crew involved with this movie. I would have given it another star for a total of eight if during the intro they took a little more time establishing why you should care or give a damn about the lead character Nick Donato. I think that would have brought a little more investment into the story as a viewer. But that's just a little nitpick comment, I really did enjoy this film. I'm looking forward to their next production. -Matt the Cat aka @Chicago. Shogun on Instagram.

I cannot believe this film was made for only $13,000. The acting, editing, storyline, directing, producing, extras! Wow! I love how the main actor is able to possess so many different persona's! It's such a raw movie with delicate topics in today's society! The story is powerful. You definitely feel a lot of different emotions as you progress through the journey of Nick. Who he is, and how he transitions is genius! His confidence is contagious! This movie is completely relatable on so many levels for the viewer. I'm from the 585 and it is awesome to see all the places highlighted in the film! BRAVO to the entire cast and crew!

Been anticipating this movie for a while now and it sure didn't disappoint. As a Rochester native i've been keeping up with Joey's career and he's been talking about this for a few years now. I was pleasantly surprised with how the story played out. Kept my attention just fine throughout! Loved seeing some Rochester staples mixed in throughout the movie as well. These guys seem hungry and authentic and I hope they keep pushing out work together. Can't believe they were able to make this happen on such a tight budget and with limited resources and equipment. I was also surprised to see there was some established actors and actresses involved too! Definitely exceeded my expectations. Hopefully they do more work in Rochester!! Would be great for the blossoming film industry taking place in Western NY.

This movie is so raw and so real. So much respect is deserved by the small group of dreamers who built this entire result on very little more than a camera, an idea, and a vision.

Admirable dedication shines through without question; from the phenomenal acting of the entire cast, to full-fledged commitment to even the smallest details in a plot that evolves act to act in ways you'll never see coming.

If you've only ever seen Joey Sasso shouting at screens or competing for love on reality tv, you have no idea what you're in for with this one. Turns out the guy who pees in showers can actually act... who knew?

Absolutely worth the watch.

Being a big fan of Joey on The Circle and having been born and raised in Rochester, NY, I knew I had to give this movie a shot and I'm so glad that I did. This movie evoked many emotions and was "deeper" than I originally thought it might be. The acting was well done, it kept me on the edge of my seat and surpassed my expectations. It didn't end with a pretty pink bow which I usually always root for, but was great none-the-less. I loved the representation of Rochester, NY-it was fun to see places that I've grown up with in the movie. I would never have expected this movie to be as good as it was with the budget they had. I highly recommend this movie!