Movie: The Boondock Saints
Director: Troy Duffy
Starring: Willem Dafoe, Sean Patrick Flannery, Norman Reedus, Billy Connelly
Running Time: 1 hr 50 min
Review by: rasputin

The cat. That's all I can say to really sum this movie up, you have to see the scene with the cat. Without a doubt, it is the funniest thing I have seen in a movie in several years. When you see it, you'll know exactly what I'm talking about.

In a style reminisent of Quentin Tarantino, newcomer Troy Duffy takes us on a violent, darkly comic tour of the Boston underworld, as shown by the two Irish brothers, Murph and Connor MacManus. Their mission in life is to eliminate the evil plaguing Boston, vigilante style. Starting with a couple of goons from the Russian mob, they begin working their way up until they are taking on just about everyone in any kind of mob.

Along the way they team up with different folks, all of whom consider them heroes. Being pursued along the way by FBI Agent Paul Smecker - an eccentric, short-fused, and gay character played by Willem Dafoe. There is certainly enough killing and general violence in this film, as well as a good bit of character development. The brothers love each other, that much is obvious, but they do a good bit of beating the hell out of each other as well.

Old school porn star Ron Jeremy even has a bit part, which he plays pretty well. Almost from the moment you see him, you feel revulsion and disgust, which was the idea I think. Let's just say that Ron gets his.

While jumping around the story, you are kept guessing, then all becomes clear. You are not left searching for answers. There is enough dark humor interspersed to keep you at least grinning, if not laughing out loud thoughout the movie.

I picked this up at my local Blockbuster on a whim. (It's only being released there, not at other video stores) I like renting the unheard of movies, as opposed to the big screen hundred million dollar blockbusters. You manage to find a gem every so often, and this movie is definately going to become a cult classic.

As Duffy seems destined to become something of star in Hollywood, you may want to read more about him. The Boston Phoenix has a great story on him at:

http://weeklywire.com/filmvault/boston/b/boondocksaints1.html

I loved Pulp Fiction. I loved Resevior Dogs. I loved Boondock Saints. I'll be buying myself a copy.