Cinnamon

In fresh & twisty small-town crime thriller "Cinnamon" Hailey Kilgore & David Iacono are down-beat young lovers with a dream who get mixed up in a deadly gas station robbery that unbeknownst to them (or is it?) also involves a wider web of drugs, murder & double-cross through the station's co-owners including Damon Wayans (in his first film in 15yrs), Pam Grier, Jeremie Harris (terrific) & Jay DeVon Johnson. The budget may be limited but third-time writer / director Bryian Keith Montgomery Jr draws terrific performances from his cast (also inc Racael Castillo & Nicole Sky) and applies a crisp, pacy, engaging (if not altogether original) style. Good 'n' entertaining fare.

This is a piece of a review from Tribeca Capsule Reviews - by Mike McGranaghan. "Here's yet another crime movie that unsuccessfully tries to emulate the style of Quentin Tarantino." This bs comment is getting so old already, it's like every time a film is made, particularly the ones that have Black lead actors they're accused of trying to emulate the thief himself, Quentin Tarantino.

They said the same thing about, "The Harder They Fall". But they never mention how the biggest thief of all time had admitted to stealing in a 1994 interview with Empire magazine by saying, "I steal from every single movie ever made." And his visual references to other movies have become his trademark. But "they" don't have anything negative to say about that.

So, if any other filmmaker does anything similar to what he has done, they have to be emulating after him. His style? Give me a break already with that bs! "Almost all of Tarantino's eight films have a main source for his thievery. For "Jackie Brown," it was the 1974 film "Foxy Brown." For "Kill Bill," the 1973 Japanese film "Lady Snowblood." And his "Inglourious Basterds" is, in a lot of ways, similar to the 1967 war film "The Dirty Dozen." So, who the hell would want to emulate after him!

This is an entertaining film and it has nothing to do with, or was even made with the thief Tarantino in mind.

Cinnamon is a thrilling and stylish genre neo-noir film that pays homage to the 70's blaxploitation classics and who done-it films. Directed by Bryian Keith Montgomery Jr., the film follows Jodi Jackson (Hailey Kilgore), a gas station attendant and aspiring singer who gets caught up in a robbery and a dangerous web of crime and betrayal. The film features a stellar cast of veteran actors, such as Damon Wayans as Wally, the shady convenience store owner who owes money to the wrong people, and Pam Grier as Mama, the ruthless leader of a criminal organization who will stop at nothing to get what she wants. The film also showcases the talents of young actors like David Iacono as Eddie, Jodi's loyal boyfriend and music manager, and Jeremie Harris as James, Mama's son and enforcer. The film is filled with twists and turns, as well as witty dialogue and memorable characters. The film also boasts a catchy soundtrack that blends soul, funk and hip hop, creating a perfect mood for the story. Cinnamon is a film that Quentin Tarantino would have loved to make, and that fans of his films will surely enjoy. It is a tribute to the genre that made Pam Grier a star, and a showcase for the new generation of actors who are ready to take on the mantle. Cinnamon is a spicy and satisfying film that will leave you wanting more.

I thoroughly enjoyed the movie! Damon Wayans delivered hilarious performances, while Pam Grier was flawless and truly terrifying. Jeremie Harris portrayed the perfect antagonist, and his handsome presence added to the film's appeal. Hailey Kilgore's acting and character were both believable and engaging.

The film's comedic elements help to overlook some noticeable plot holes, creating an overall lighthearted energy that made it perfect for a relaxing weekend watch. In a world that can often be heavy, seeing it through a comedic lens was therapeutic and enjoyable.

However, I felt that Harris's character's catchphrase, which included the n-word, was a bit excessive and casual. While it was used less frequently than in movies like Django, the unoriginality of the catchphrase reminded me of black exploitation films, as did the cover art.

Surprisingly a great movie with talented actors. I was pleasantly surprised. I'm at a point where I am watching this daily (at 29 mins in tho) and I need to stop!

The movie builds into the plot, some surprises along the way. But for the most part, I didn't pick any sides on this one. None of them deserved to win, but oddly enough, no one deserved to lose either...

I will say there are a few plot holes which leaves me wondering about the QA protocol. I have so many questions. What city did this take place?! The western theme was a very nice added touch for uniqueness bc most themes are over done. An African American cowboy?!?! Yas, I am here for it! It made the film quite entertaining.

I encourage you to watch and put your friends and family up on this movie as well.