Wow! I didn't know what to expect when I went to the premier of the indie - Just Like Joe, but it turns out I was really blown away! This is a period piece that takes place in 1969 and the film IMO really captures a lot of what was going on back then. Top shelf acting from a mostly unknown cast kept me riveted throughout the film. There's almost too much talent here to fit into one movie!
This is a heart warming story largely centered around three best friends (Paul, Tony, and Frank - played by Matthew Pappadia, Jean Bonavita and Clifford Lee) who play together in their high school varsity football team - The Bruins, dealing with an unruly coach (Coach Bengotto played by Anthony Trentacosta) and who are burdened with the Vietnam draft looming over their heads while they take refuge in celebrating their idol Joe Namath (the movie title's namesake). Matthew Pappadia who plays Paul has the leading role and what a phenomenal job he did! But I don't know how to single him out without also noting the superb and emotionally very strong performances by Trentacosta, Jessica Tsunis who plays Paul's sweetheart, and Paul Vario who plays Pauls's blind father with extraordinary expertise. Jean Bonativa's performance is so real and naturally comedic I can see a great future ahead of him as I do for most of the actors in this film. But but but wait there's more...
Cate Magrane who plays Paul's mom is totally believable and Gay Lee who plays Frank's (Clifford Lee) Mom in the film will move you - no doubt, as well as Clifford Lee's performance. Also worthy of mention are Richie Lamp- another new face that we should be seeing a lot more of, who plays Mr. "L", giving a convincing portrayal of a rebel history teacher embittered by the fact that he didn't get the varsity football coaching job but has a special affinity for his students, and Tim Dougherty who plays Principle Werner - Mr. L's nemesis.
Truly every performance is excellent including co-writer Joanne Tamburro's cameo appearance as an irate Mom and Steven Jackman portraying a militant Black Panther trying to recruit Frank (Clifford Lee).
Look it's simple, if you enjoy great acting and an engaging story then you owe it to yourself to go and see this film. Look for it in upcoming festivals. It's a must see!
