Scenes of the Crime

According to the credits the movie is based on actual events. And I think it's a quite interesting story. "Scary Movie's" Jon Abrahams, "ER's" Noah Wyle, "Twin Peaks'" Madchen Amick and of course Jeff Bridges himself make a very good cast in a film, that's definitely not a typical production. Though the story is a bit predictable, and some scenes make you wonder why the characters act the way they do, but I found it very entertaining. Mostly because it's a story of a typical young guy (Jon Abrahams), who tries to earn some "extra cash" and by accident he gets involved in a conflict between two gangs. It made me wonder what would I do in a situation like this.

Anyway, if you want a lot of action, don't waste your time. This movie is very "static" and "slow", but I believe it's worth seeing.

The main problem I have with "Scenes of the Crime" is that none of the characters are likable. They are all either gangsters or on the take. The film is extremely claustrophobic, taking place mostly inside a van or in a deli. The movie is also confusing, with lots of unseen characters being mentioned, and speaking of characters, none are really well developed. The presence of Bob Gunton, and R. Lee Ermey is a plus, while Jeff Bridges, playing against type, is a hard sell as a mob boss. The whole thing, although supposedly based on fact, is difficult to swallow, because it never feels genuine. Although the acting isn't bad, the entertainment value is questionable. - MERK

This show is the "truck" (van) version of the later show called "Phone Booth". A good portion of the film is filmed inside the truck. Casual driver gets involved and is the middle person in between 2 big time mob gangs. Either way, it's the devil or the deep blue sea for him. He would be lucky to walk away with his life. And most of the action is how they act out the "black spy versus white spy" (from MAD magazine) kind of moves. You'd be dying to find out how the entire event is resolved, and this is what makes it interesting to hang on. But watch it to the end! A bit of panties action by the operator of the deli to her husband. If you are hoping for more than just seeing a pair of lacy panties, you'd be disappointed. Story line is fine but can get confusing with all the mob names thrown around all over.

is the one word I think sums up this movie. Not much happens. A lot of the story takes place in the back of a van. A get-a-away driver for a thug gets caught up in a mess. He holds another gangster hostage in the back of a van, while the rival gangster's associates wait in cars along the street trying to solve the situation without a big scene. 2 shop owners also play a small role because the van is parked in front of their store. Also, 2 painters who are covering up the windows on a neighboring building play a role. But, you don't find out why their job is key to the story till the end.

FINAL VERDICT: Boring, slow. Even though it is only 90 minutes long, it still seemed a lot longer because there isn't much action. I don't recommend this.

This is a typical crime film made in the late nineties and early two thousands, focusing on the supporting characters more than the lead; if you have even leads.... It is fast paced, with good directing skills, camera angles. Maybe a bit too complex to floow and then to summarize. I like the Jeff Bridges' character. From actual events.