The Almost Guys

Endearing characters, good relationships, funny twists. Just shows what's possible in film without needing huge special effects in every scene. Robert Culp's performance is subtle and hilarious. The kid actor gives an amazing, non bad-actor- kid nuanced performance. Eric Fleming did an amazing job not only starring in this thing, but writing and directing it as well. Usually this is a recipe for disaster-- in independent film it's almost guaranteed to be a narcissistic, "me me me" suck-fest, but somehow-- miraculously-- Eric manages to create a film that is not all about him- it's about an ad hoc and unlikely *family* that emerges from absurd and very funny circumstances.

Great comic sensibility. Great ensemble. Oh, and I should also give props to Shawnee Smith... she's great in everything.

If you're lucky enough to have this film comes to your town, definitely check it out. It's the kind of movie you can show someone who's never seen an independent film before, because it's a great example of what can be done with a small budget and big talent.

I volunteer each year to help with the Palm Beach International Film Festival. One of the drawbacks is that my responsibilities keep me from seeing any of the films play in front of live audiences. One of the benefits is that, after the festival is over, I get to borrow "screeners" to watch the films at home. Some are just so-so, but once in a while a really polished gem shines through.

One of the best feature films I've seen in a long time is an independent film by a young writer/director named Eric Fleming. The name of the film is "The Almost Guys". It hasn't been distributed yet, but is expected to open in Florida in theaters in the near future. It's smart, funny and perfectly balanced. I loved the story, the characters, the acting, the camera work, the editing...everything about it. "The Almost Guys" is a story about a down-on-his-luck repo man (Eric Fleming) and his 73 year-old partner (Robert Culp) who find a major league pitcher (James Edson) bound and gagged in the trunk of a car that they repo. The World Series is three days away.

This movie has everything going for it. It's a buddy movie, an action flick, a side-splitting comedy and a touching father-son road trip. The cast is rounded out by Shawnee Smith, playing the pitcher's ex-wife (you might remember her from "Becker"), and Oliver Davis as the repo man's 12-year-old son.

Put it on your must-see list. Put it on your Netflix.com list. You'll be glad you did. Take a look at the trailer at www.thealmostguys.com. Tell your friends.

Howard

You will love THE ALMOST GUYS. It's a fun, straightforward buddy adventure film, in which the buddies aren't quite up to the adventure. Eric Fleming is extremely likable as a repo man who is in no way a success, but is truly doing his best to be a good father to his son (played splendidly by Oliver Davis). Robert Culp is the perfect curmudgeonly sidekick. When the luckless repo men decide to carry out a kidnapping that someone else started, all hell breaks loose.

The movie is muscle cars, motels, money, and figuring out what's really important.

It's been a long while since I've seen a movie as touching, which made me laugh- out-loud at the same time.

After 2 hours on the road, we were tired, hungry and 15 minutes late as we entered the dark theatre. We quietly shuffled into seats at the back and settled in for what looked like one of those comedic "journey" stories - you know, where the main character has to go on a physical journey, enduring all kinds of fantastic situations, in order to effect change. Ugh.

But then something wonderful happened. Characters transcended, relationships were built and I found myself laughing at the funny parts!

Eric Fleming writes, directs and stars in a story that isn't exactly what it appears to be. Yes, this is a feel-good movie, yes, the main character grows, but things don't turn out the way you'd expect. Plot twists take the viewer for a joy ride and some serious character development brings to life a cast of lovable "almost guys" who keep us rooted in reality amidst the seeming chaos.

The film succeeds best in the tender moments between "Rick" and his son, "Buddy". Rick may not be the most responsible dad, but his honesty and sincerity come through admirably. Shawnee Smith lends her unique personality to the film in an enjoyable performance. And ... oh, the cars! Car lovers, there are some awesome vintage vehicles in this film.

Just had the pleasure of seeing the film at Jax Film Fest - - was a breath of fresh air among some of the other films there. Production quality was excellent, story great. Was particularly impressed with the handling of the father/son relationship - very natural, without all of the sassy kid back talk garbage you see these days. The interplay between all of the characters was excellent as well, with a motel room scene really giving you the feeling that this bunch were having a blast telling this story together. A little too much language for some to call it a "family film", but again, great story with very likable characters (and GORGEOUS cars - boy do I miss the days of muscle!) Hope it is released soon so I can see it again!