This is an unusual movie that I know will provoke a very mixed response from fellow reviewers. Some will just give the movie a wide berth due to it's subject.
First of all, I've just watched it and really enjoyed it. On one level it is my favorite movie of the year, partly because it was so much better than I expected.
The Movie was written, directed and co produced by Howard Weiner. A Professor of Neurology by career and a pioneer of some treatment of multiple sclerosis. Wow, so we're talking a very intelligent man with an artistic ambition to create a good movie.
He's just done it.
I think his knowledge of real patient behavior and human interaction shines through in this story and sets it apart from the usual Hollywood take on life.
There's lots going on here enough to more than fill the 85 minute run time with interest. The acting and direction are superb. Martin Landau and Paul Sorvino handle some very cringe-worthy and awkward scenes really well. Sadly this movie will never get the acclaim I think it deserves due to a limited number audience and viewers that are just too uncomfortable watching seniors discussing and doing the things that they themselves think and do. Thank you Howard Weiner for an enjoyable 85 minutes and for cementing my memory of the late Martin Landau as a wonderful talented actor.
My rating: 9 out of 10
Highly recommended - Be open minded and give it a go. We're all human and unfortunately are going to get old along with all the changes that brings!
Review of Abe & Phil's Last Poker Game
