User reviews

If you have any kind of heart and compassion for people, this is a tough movie to watch, at least in the second half of it.

It's in that segment where we see nice little kid get beaten up and then a retarded (mentally- challenged) man go off the deep end after he witnesses this brutal act against the child. It's not pleasant material.

However, it's a good movie and the acting is good, too. The story will sit with you awhile.

"Dominick" is the mentally-disabled guy and is played by Tom Hulce. I think this might be Hulce's best role ever. He's looked after by a med student, "Eugene," played by Ray Liotta, who became a star the following year with Kevin Costner's "Field Of Dreams."

Dominick is a goodhearted garbage man who reads "Hulk" comic books and loves wrestling. He's the type of "slow" guy that you can't help but love and root for to live a happy life. When he freaks out, it's for several good reasons and...well, see the film for the whole story. It's worth your time but be prepared to go on real emotional roller coaster and possibly be very upset at some things you see.

But the rest of us, who love a good sentimental and emotional story that is a lock to get you crying..enjoy!

Tom Hulce is magnificent as Dominick, a mentally slow trashman who loves professional wrestling and his brother, Eugene, played by Ray Liotta, who is a doctor and who works very long hours.

Due to Eugene's work schedule, Dominick is alone a lot of the time and tends to make questionable judgment calls. He really just wants to be a good boy, to do the right thing, and to make his brother proud of him. He stops in church to pray at one point and expresses his emotions so openly and so well that the character has you crying before the damn movie even gets really started.

Not about to give anything away here, but the movie is extremely involving and sad and heartbreaking. Those unafraid of these things will have a field day with this beautiful story, its loving characters and a great song I cannot quote here, that has nothing to do with the movie at all but is strangely appropriate..but you hear it in a bar.

I thought Tom Hulce would be nominated for this movie, since he was for 'Amadeus' I figured that might give him the inside track to actually winning. No such luck. Liotta is just as good but has less of an emotional impact, but then he does later on. All I can say about Jamie Lee Curtis is that she doesn't have much of a part here but it was nice of her to lend her name to a small drama set in Pittsburgh about two brothers who you will never forget.

Where to begin? Is it because it has two powerfully realistic performances that make the viewer forget that it's only a movie? Is it because it's filmed in my hometown? I must admit that it was because it was shot AND set in Pittsburgh that I went to see it immediately when it was released but I soon saw past all the familiar sights of the South Side to watch a drama unfold as if these were real people that I might have even known.

Tom Hulce's portrayal of Nicky was so riveting that even without words he was able to evoke emotion that spoke volumes -- that's talent deserving of the highest accolade. He is a man-child living to please those around him; especially the one person he has depended on his whole life - his twin brother who himself is deeply committed to becoming a doctor and fearing that leaving his mentally handicapped brother to pursue his dream will mean breaking his own and Nicky's heart.

Ray Liotta as Eugene plays out his own inner struggle to succeed but not at the expense of his brother's love with such poise that it hurt to watch when he would reprimand Nicky for not using common sense in his daily life. He wants to believe that his brother is capable of caring for himself but Nicky repeatedly gets himself into scrape after scrape. Add to the mix Larry, Nicky's partner on the garbage truck. He is the little devil that sits on Nicky's shoulder feeding him reasons to believe that his brother is "dumping him like a rock" when he begins tutoring a fellow medical student. This only upsets Nicky and forces Gino to admit that he is leaving.

This movie speaks to many issues -- brotherly love, family ties, independence, jealousy and abuse, all delivered with understated grace. This is a top shelf film that makes one happy and sad by the end. There aren't enough movies like this.

This was on at 2 or so In the morning one Saturday a few years ago, for various reasons I don't remember the entire story but what remains are the two standout performances from the central characters. Dom has had a unfortunate lot, manipulated & literally working a rubbish job, Eugene torn between personal aspirations and duty towards his sibling. Tom Hulce' Dom doesn't plead for sympathy - It comes naturally. Ray Liotta Is a universe away from Henry Hill, displaying a soft centre In what must feel a thankless position.

In many ways this deals with the dilemma many young carer's face - the past or the future. As It turns out, with some work the two can happily co-exist. Thoughtfully handled & sensitively played Dominick & Eugene Is difficult not to warm to.

Eugene (Ray Liotta) and Dominick 'Nicky' Luciano (Tom Hulce) are twins living in Pittsburgh together. Eugene is studying to be a doctor and finds out that he got into Stanford. Nicky is mentally slow and working as a trash man paying for Eugene's school. Eugene is leery of Nicky's crass work partner Larry Higgins. Nicky wants to live with Eugene in a house by the lake but Eugene is wondering if Nicky could live by himself. Eugene starts a relationship with nurse Jennifer Reston (Jamie Lee Curtis).

These are two good performances especially Tom Hulce. The brothers' chemistry is great. There is real dramatic complexity with their relationship. Everybody is great including Curtis. It's a good sentimental melodramatic movie. It would be nice to make Mikey more of a constant sidekick to Nicky and a more central part of the movie from the start.

Ray Liotta and Tom Hulce are fraternal twins. Hulce was injured when he was a baby and is mentally slow. Nonetheless,it's he who earns a living as a garbageman to support the two of them while Liotta studies to become a doctor. But there's a crisis in the offing; Liotta has to go out of state to complete his training, but he can't take Hulce along. He's also trying to carry on a romance with nurse Jamie Lee Curtis, as Hulce worries about things beyond his depth and keeps fouling up, making Liotta lose his temper.

It's beautifully performed, with both men showing natural affection for each other, even though there's a lot of idiot plotting involved; if either of them explained what was going on to the other, matters would clear up quickly. Even so, the character exposition makes this an excellent film. With David Strathairn.

I loved this movie! It was all I could do not to break down into tears while watching it, but it is really very uplifting. I was struck by the performance of Ray Liotta, but especially the talent of Tom Hulce portraying Ray's twin brother who is mentally slow due to a tragic and terrible childhood event. But Tom's character, though heartbreaking, knows no self pity and is so full of hope and life. This is a great movie, don't miss it!!

Liked the Pittsburgh location shooting. Nice, hilly city with lots of interesting vistas and, considering its pictorial qualities, not seen on film as often as it should be. I also liked a couple of the subsidiary characters and the actors who played them, like Todd Graff as the creepy but somewhat sensitive garbageman, Larry, and Jacqueline Knapp as his sluttish but also surprisingly sympathetic girlfriend.

Other than the above, though, this movie felt like a place I'd visited before, in more interesting company. Like, say, "George And Lenny Go To Steeltown" or "Rainman Does the Monongahela". Give it a C plus.

I want to warn you that there is a very bittersweet quality to this comment. Also, this comment will be much more meaningful to you after you have seen the movie.

Although it is tragically sad to say, that movie bears a resemblance to my life that is so striking that it is truly scary. The rest of you will never know how accurately that movie depicts how persons who have been in situations like that act and react in their later lives.

This could not have been a work of fiction; it had to be based on personal experience.

My testament to the how good the movie was is shown by the fact that, although it was one of the best movies I've ever seen, watching my life portrayed on the silver screen was such a searingly painful experience that I will never be able to see it again.

But I endorse it heartily to all others as a chance to peer into the soul of another human being to the extent that you probably never experienced before or will ever again. I know that for a fact, because that's my soul you will be observing.

Don't get me wrong: Domenick & Eugene is a decent movie. At a certain point, however, exploration of the intense relationship between the two brothers is traded for not-very-pertinent, high-powered external events.

It seems the producer or someone in charge decided at some point that the movie was too dull, so infused the substantial plot with hookers, child abusers and alcoholic binges.

The point in the movie where it went astray and where it could have been done much better is when Nicky has been told by Eugene that Eugene can not make it to the birthday celebration wrestling match. Nicki should have called Jennifer (Jamie Lee Curtis) and thereby began a relationship with her.

Some excellent and subtle screenplay could have evolved from Nikki having a romantic relationship with Jennifer, while Eugene, a professional one (so he says). Some interesting jealousy, rivalries could have ensued, along with coming-of-age and search for identity and assertiveness on Nicky's part, and maybe learning more respect for others on Gino's part.

Instead, we get a movie basically filled with scumballs; the drug dealer, the other guy on the trash truck and the guy who beat and killed his son. For what? Excitement? The movie had great actors and acting and good direction, but didn't know what it wanted to say.

I also have to ask how Nicky avoided kidnapping charges or at least a 60-day mental observation. The final blow to this movie was the lack-luster and un-emotional goodbye between Nicky and Gino. Yeah. See you later, guy.

Whatever.

This film was excellent - the emotional power of Tom Hulce and Ray Liotta's performances brought tears to my eyes and joy to my heart - this film shows us that there is still hope in the world. If this film had come out at the end of 1988, instead of Rain Man, Hulce would certainly have been at least nominated for a Best Actor Oscar. Definitely a must-see!

Adversity.

The film stands out for its delicate treatment of the issue, especially in the way Dominick's illness is portrayed. In a remarkable performance, Ray Liotta captures the subtleties of a character who is both innocent and profoundly knowing. Tom Hulce, who also starred in "Amadeus," convincingly combines ambition and tenderness in Eugene. The clear bond between the two characters drives the film's emotional heart. The accurate depiction of Pittsburgh in the 1980s in Dominick and Eugene is noteworthy since it significantly enhances the film's realism and immerses viewers in the setting. By juxtaposing the hard realities the brothers face with the warmth of their friendship, the cinematography deftly captures the raw yet loving atmosphere of their lives. This meticulous visual storytelling allows the audience to feel the emotional effect of their experiences. Even if some critics argue that a more in-depth analysis of Dominick and Eugene's beginnings may have provided more character development and context, the film's visual realism is nonetheless a strong point, enabling viewers to relate to their emotional journey.

For those who value character-driven dramas with deep emotional impact, Dominick and Eugene comes highly recommended. The film's depiction of unwavering brotherly love is heartwarming and provocative. Even if it might not be the most innovative story, it is nonetheless worth seeing because of its straightforward and real treatment of complicated interpersonal connections. Dominick and Eugene is a moving movie that expertly strikes a balance between emotional nuance and a simple plot. It is evidence of the strength of kinship ties and the tenacity of the human spirit. The performances and the touching depiction of the brothers' bond make the narrative a noteworthy contribution to the genre, even though it might not be a novel one.

DOMINICK AND EUGENE (1988) ***1/2 Ray Liotta, Tom Hulce, Jamie Lee Curtis, Todd Graff, Bill Cobb, David Strathairn. One little gem of a sleeper that was ironically released the same year as "Rain Man" with some parallel storylines: the troubling and realistic portrayal of twin brothers, one mentally challenged (Hulce believeably perfect as a man/child) and the other a brilliant medical student (Liotta in arguably his finest performance) whose love for one another is only challenged by the undying bond of guilt and responsibility. Beautifully told with a wonderful score by Trevor Jones and some heart wrenching moments by the film's end. Possibly the best told story of sibling love among brothers. Directed with a steady hand by Robert M. Young and produced by actor Mike Farrell (best known as BJ Hunnicut on TV's "M.A.S.H.")

One of my favorite movies I saw at preview in Seattle. Tom Hulce was amazing, with out words could convey his feelings/thoughts. I actually sent Mike Ferrell some donation money to help the film get distributed. It is good. System says I need more lines but do not want to give away plot stuff. I was in the audience in Seattle with Hulce and director , a writer I think and Mike Ferrell. They talked for about an hour afterwords. Not really a dry eye in the house. Why Hollywood continues to be stupid I do not know. ( actually I do know , it is our fault, look what we watch)Well you get what you pay for guys. Get this and see it with someone special. It is a gem.

Mentally impaired Dominick (Tom Hulce, Oscar-winner for Amadeus) is putting his intern brother, Eugene (Ray Liotta at his best), through medical school by collecting garbage. Eugene is torn between his nascent career and his responsibility for his brother. Todd Graff as Nicky's partner on the garbage truck, Larry, brings humor and sympathy to what could have been a throw-away role. I collected garbage for two Summers in my Hometown, and the scenes of Nicky and Larry chatting with the folks on their route are completely authentic. Powerful and exhilarating, with Jamie Lee Curtis as the sympathetic student who inadvertently comes between the brothers.

"...and you have to believe in your strength, Nicky"

People with a mental or physical handicap are mother's milk to actors, or at least Oscar-bait because these kinds of roles allow actors to transform themselves, into someone they're not, either physically or 'mentally' or both. In "Dominick and Eugene" it's Tom Hulce who's 'slow' after a head injury has left him childlike. He's the Dominick character and he lives with his twin brother Eugene, (Ray Liotta), who's studying to be a doctor and the movie is about their relationship as Eugene ponders whether to move away and what will happen to Dominick if he does. Then there's the added complication of Eugene's budding romance with Jamie Lee Curtis.

It's a slight story but it deals with deeply depressing material while Hulce goes through all the usual tics you associate with this kind of part. The problem is it feels as if he's acting all the time. The other problem is that Pittsburgh, where the movie is located and was filmed, seems to be populated for the most part with the kind of lowlife who takes advantage of Dominick at every turn. I think if I lived there I would probably sue for libel. If director Robert M. Young makes good use of his Pittsburgh locations he also makes it look like the kind of town no-one might want to live in. I came away from the picture feeling slightly queasy.

I have seen this film twice, and will see it again . It is a wonderful movie. I guess it was released the wrong year, because it certainly deserves awards. It is the best movie of this genre that I have ever seen! It tops them all. I found it to be touching, and yet realistic. I think it will inspire those who watch it. It certainly inspired me to be more kind and compassionate towards others, especially towards those who have a handicap. The film touched my heart! If you can find this movie on television, or at the rental place,

see it. You will not be disappointed.

Ray Liotta and Tom Hulce shine in this sterling example of brotherly love and commitment. Hulce plays Dominick, (Nicky) a mildly mentally handicapped young man who is putting his 12 minutes younger, twin brother, Liotta, who plays Eugene, through medical school. It is set in Baltimore and deals with the issues of sibling rivalry, the unbreakable bond of twins, child abuse and good always winning out over evil. It is captivating, and filled with laughter and tears. If you have not yet seen this film, please rent it, I promise, you'll be amazed at how such a wonderful film could go un-noticed.

Words are seriously not enough convey the emotional power of this film; it's one of the most wrenching you'll ever see, yet the ending is one of the most loving, tender, and emotionally fulfilling you could hope for. Every actor in every role is terrific, especially a wise and understated Jamie Lee Curtis, a tightly wound and anguished Ray Liotta, and a heart-stopping turn from Tom Hulce that should have had him up for every award in the book. (He's the #1 pick for 1988's Best Actor in Danny Peary's "Alternate Oscars.") The last half hour borders on melodrama, but the film earns every one of its tears--and unless you're made of stone, there will be plenty of them.

TOM HULCE* turns in yet another Oscar-worthy performance as Dominick Luciano, the brain-damaged garbage man who's helping put his brother (Ray Liotta as Eugene) through medical school.

This is a must-see for all movie lovers and all lovers of life and people!

===========> *From the small studder to the eratic dancing, to the repeated words "Oh, Jeez" whenever Nicky is in a bind, the belieavablitly of Tom's performance is so excellent that you will have to concentrate to remember that it's an actor on screen!

(1988) Dominick and Eugene DRAMA

Well intended film centering on medical student, Eugene Luciano (Ray Liotta), looking after his garbage worker who happens to be his mentally challenged brother, Dominick Luciano played by Tom Hulce who does nothing but reads comic books. And throughout the rest of the film, it shows some of the hurdles that come with looking after him. Simplistic story line film that may be relevant during it's time, such as during the 70's and the 80's except that I don't care. If there was a film that consist of a similar theme that I think is much more superior is "Rain Man".

this is a great movie one of ray liotta's best. i saw it on hbo as a kid and i have loved it ever since. it shows that one person can make a positive difference in other people's lives.great acting and a very good storyline make this movie a must see.