The Poor and Hungry is an excellent film, especially if you live in or are familiar with Memphis. The ending is a little silly, but otherwise the movie is both funny and heartwrenching. It's also a incredibly insightful look at the unique culture of Memphis, touching on the city's poverty, race issues and seediness while at the same time showing the filmmaker's genuine love for a town like no other. For Memphians, it's a must-see; for everyone else, it's still worth the price of a ticket.
12 Reviews
Pure and Simplistic, Liked it a lot.
mstarla2 October 2009
Call me crazy, but I really find "The Poor and the Hungry" to be the best Craig Brewer movie to-date. Yes, I know it was shot using little Sony camcorders and edited with pro-sumer type stuff, but it's so gritty, so realistic and so darn good, that I think it might just be one of the best "no budget" films of all time. I could watch this "Digi Flick" (a Brewer term) again and again. The power and elegance of simplicity, the earthy cinematography, the wonderfully controlled acting and fist-rate, unique, storytelling, place P&H high above other Brewer films. Having been to Memphis several times, I thought he did a great job of capturing this somewhat complex, divided and historically relevant city, while telling a heart-felt love story at the same time. Wanted to give this a "7.5" but didn't see an option to do so. If you get a chance to see this moving independent feature, make sure you do.
A resounding thumbs up.
hastings6629 July 2001
The Poor and Hungry was Craig Brewer's first released feature film. It is not merely a great directorial debut - it is simply a great film on any standard. Rarely has any filmmaker been more able to capture Memphis in its mythic entirety. Before The Poor and Hungry, audiences looked to Jim Jarmusch's Mystery Train as the definitive Memphis flick. But as much as I love that movie, I believe that Jarmusch (a transplant from Akron, Ohio, I might add) has been upstaged by Brewer's more masterful approach to the Memphis scene in which characters have more to talk about than Elvis and Sun Studios, yet hold onto that edge of Memphis funk. Watch out for Craig Brewer - I have a feeling we'll all be hearing more about him in the years to come.
Outstanding
thebeckerman6 December 2003
This is an excellent movie.
Phenomenal screenplay, lovingly photographed, incredibly well acted and directed. I think it's an astonishing movie.
For a first-time, low budget, movie, it's a miracle. Miraculous that it could be executed so well, and miraculous in that the director stayed true to his story and his characters, rather than trying to go over the top in attracting attention and showcasing his brilliance.
It really captures in an honest way the duality of life.
It is amazingly straightforward, told without overacting, building characters whom we wind up caring about.
Phenomenal screenplay, lovingly photographed, incredibly well acted and directed. I think it's an astonishing movie.
For a first-time, low budget, movie, it's a miracle. Miraculous that it could be executed so well, and miraculous in that the director stayed true to his story and his characters, rather than trying to go over the top in attracting attention and showcasing his brilliance.
It really captures in an honest way the duality of life.
It is amazingly straightforward, told without overacting, building characters whom we wind up caring about.
Started watching, couldn't stop.
timmcginnis8 July 2006
I came across this film on IFC one night, very late. I started watching and though I was really tired, I just couldn't pull myself away. I ended up thinking about it long after the final credits had rolled.
This is a fine film with very strong performances. Like many of the best independent films, you get a fresh story about people you don't know, played by people you don't know. No preconceived notions. You get to learn about their world. And through the strength of the story and the acting, you begin to care about it.
Lyndsay Roberts gives an exceptional performance. I'm surprised I've not seen more of her, or other actors from this film, since. Craig Brewer has gone on to "bigger" things such as Hustle & Flow, and we'll likely see more from him.
I'd really like to see The Poor and Hungry released to DVD so that more people can have access to this nice piece of film making.
This is a fine film with very strong performances. Like many of the best independent films, you get a fresh story about people you don't know, played by people you don't know. No preconceived notions. You get to learn about their world. And through the strength of the story and the acting, you begin to care about it.
Lyndsay Roberts gives an exceptional performance. I'm surprised I've not seen more of her, or other actors from this film, since. Craig Brewer has gone on to "bigger" things such as Hustle & Flow, and we'll likely see more from him.
I'd really like to see The Poor and Hungry released to DVD so that more people can have access to this nice piece of film making.
I couldn't believe how great it was.
jred17 September 2000
I actually registered w/ imdb just to vote on this movie. It was based in Memphis, but I didn't know anyone in the movie, so this isn't biased or anything. I usually don't like "arty" movies (hey, I liked Mystery Men), but this was exceptional. Not what I would expect. The acting, plot, soundtrack, production, everything was great. I paid $7 to see this, and I'd pay $15 to see it again. It's about a reluctant car thief who gets emotionally attached to one of his victims. A gritty look at consequenses. Don't base your decision on what I've written, because I'm not a critic. Just go see it. If you don't like it, I'll send you a Tootsie Roll.
Simply Riveting
gzerna24 December 2003
More involving than at least ninety-percent of all the Hollywood overproduced over-compromised rubbish out there. Why? Better writing, better acting, and better directing. Just look at what you can do with twenty-grand, and real talent. Lindsey Roberts (Harper) is a phenomenal actor. It's painful to see that she has only been cast in one small role since making this movie. The William Morris Agency should be crawling on their knees to her. Writer-director Craig Brewer has scripted a film called `Water's Edge' that comes out on DVD January 27, 2004.
about a girl
STAHL120820 May 2004
I started watching this film one night over winter break. I had plans to go out and I was maybe 15 minutes into the film and I thought "I'll have to catch this sometime." But then there she was- Amanda. I sat there and watched her change the whole film... and it's a great film, but the jewel of the movie doesn't show up until about 20 minutes into it, and then your hooked. I've looked everywhere for this movie, and I can't find it. I've searched hi and low for other films starring Lake Lattimer- and I've got zilch. Does anyone know what else she's been in. If not, does anyone know how I can get a copy of this film. She's mesmorizing in every way. Her talent is evident in every facial expression and every line that comes out of her (perfect) mouth. She will make you remember this film months after you've seen it- you'll lose sleep wondering if you'll ever get to see it again.
Strong debut, several impressive performances
enigmann26 December 2003
IFC screened this film Christmas Day, and it was a nifty Christmas present! Although I'm not a native Memphian (I landed here in 1989), the opening scenes quickly established Memphis as the setting using a number of easily recognizable landmarks, and managed to portray a very realistic and at the same time sentimental view of the city. So I said to myself, "A movie about Memphis, cool!" and on that basis decided to keep watching.
The next attractor for me was Eric Tate's physical resemblance to someone I know and like personally. So I developed a strong emotional connection to Eli from his very first scene. And then the plot line about Eli's reluctant involvement in a car theft ring hit home with me as well, as I was victimized by just such a ring within two weeks of relocating to Memphis in '89. So within the first few minutes of the film I was hooked three ways. And you know what, it just got better!
Although it took me awhile longer, I did connect with Harper, and I must say Lindsey Roberts stole the acting show with her end-of-the-film closeup portrayal of Harper's grief-stricken heartbreak over the tragedy of Eli's self-sacrifice and Amanda's mis-timed ignorance of it. A great dramatic moment! Nobody with normal emotions could look at Harper's face in that ending scene and not feel the tears welling up in sympathy. I certainly did.
Lake Latimer's Amanda is also poignant and touching. Such a good job playing the exquisitely talented but shy, suffering, lonely introvert with no intimate friends beyond her cello. An unusual, even unique, beauty graces her performance. Especially in the scene where she is alone in Eli's room inspecting his model cars -- Amanda's repressed sexuality longing for expression with Eli, in inner tension with her innocent shyness and fear of intimacy, and the young actresses' body language and facial expressions betraying the struggle. Great stuff from a previously unknown but promising new talent.
The only disappointing element I found is the relatively stiff and somewhat unrealistic, if not hokey, attempts at depicting physical violence and its resulting wounds. Thankfully, the fight scenes in this film are few in number -- the fake blows are more obvious than in an old Western and I found myself wanting to laugh during these serious moments of violence. And there is nowhere near enough bleeding from Eli following his presumed fatal knife wound in the belly. But really a minor distraction from the overall quality of story and characterizations.
The supporting cast does an equally complimentary job. And then the ending credits reveal this film was nearly a one-man production. How about Craig Brewer as writer, director, photographer, editor, and co-producer! Yowza. What a fantastic debut, I'll be getting all my friends to see this one. And I hope one day to stop by the P&H Cafe on Madison and maybe meet Wanda in person -- what a gas.
The next attractor for me was Eric Tate's physical resemblance to someone I know and like personally. So I developed a strong emotional connection to Eli from his very first scene. And then the plot line about Eli's reluctant involvement in a car theft ring hit home with me as well, as I was victimized by just such a ring within two weeks of relocating to Memphis in '89. So within the first few minutes of the film I was hooked three ways. And you know what, it just got better!
Although it took me awhile longer, I did connect with Harper, and I must say Lindsey Roberts stole the acting show with her end-of-the-film closeup portrayal of Harper's grief-stricken heartbreak over the tragedy of Eli's self-sacrifice and Amanda's mis-timed ignorance of it. A great dramatic moment! Nobody with normal emotions could look at Harper's face in that ending scene and not feel the tears welling up in sympathy. I certainly did.
Lake Latimer's Amanda is also poignant and touching. Such a good job playing the exquisitely talented but shy, suffering, lonely introvert with no intimate friends beyond her cello. An unusual, even unique, beauty graces her performance. Especially in the scene where she is alone in Eli's room inspecting his model cars -- Amanda's repressed sexuality longing for expression with Eli, in inner tension with her innocent shyness and fear of intimacy, and the young actresses' body language and facial expressions betraying the struggle. Great stuff from a previously unknown but promising new talent.
The only disappointing element I found is the relatively stiff and somewhat unrealistic, if not hokey, attempts at depicting physical violence and its resulting wounds. Thankfully, the fight scenes in this film are few in number -- the fake blows are more obvious than in an old Western and I found myself wanting to laugh during these serious moments of violence. And there is nowhere near enough bleeding from Eli following his presumed fatal knife wound in the belly. But really a minor distraction from the overall quality of story and characterizations.
The supporting cast does an equally complimentary job. And then the ending credits reveal this film was nearly a one-man production. How about Craig Brewer as writer, director, photographer, editor, and co-producer! Yowza. What a fantastic debut, I'll be getting all my friends to see this one. And I hope one day to stop by the P&H Cafe on Madison and maybe meet Wanda in person -- what a gas.
Great independent film
4lightning6 July 2005
I just wanted to take a minute and express just how impressed I was to learn how novice the cast was that pulled off this spectacular, gritty film based in the south. While I enjoyed seeing a lot of locals my favorite character was Eli. I look forward to seeing more of this local Memphis talent on the big screen. Harper's character was also a great performance. I really think Lindsey and Eric must have worked many hours off camera to pull off the natural love-hate relationship. My only real criticism was the choice for the female lead. She was sweet and seemed innocent enough but you really can't expect the rest of the cast to pull up one actors game. As they say in the Dirty South you either got game or you don't. Overall this no budget film showed great promise for director Craig Brewer as well as a handful of Memphis natives whom to my knowledge devoted well over a year of their lives to this project for free. Well, not entirely free I am sure the were promised a return if the movie ever gets picked up so I am sure in the end all of those who made it happen with get theirs.
Excellent Movie best example of what digital can do!
Fatfella26 February 2003
Craig Where Are you man.
I caught The poor and Hungry at the St Louis International film festival and was deeply impressed. It shows that whatever media you choose to tell your story, a good story with an excellent storyteller can place an audience anywhere and move them effectively. Which is what a movie should do. The fact he shot it on digital 8 and a boom mic with very little crew. Nice. Now two questions
What are you doing now?
Where can I buy the DVD?
I caught The poor and Hungry at the St Louis International film festival and was deeply impressed. It shows that whatever media you choose to tell your story, a good story with an excellent storyteller can place an audience anywhere and move them effectively. Which is what a movie should do. The fact he shot it on digital 8 and a boom mic with very little crew. Nice. Now two questions
What are you doing now?
Where can I buy the DVD?
Excellent Movie
tobydog822 November 2001
This was one of the best movies I have seen all year. I am not usually into independent films, but this is defanatly one to see! I would recommend this movie to anyone, as I'm sure that I will. Check around on the Independant channels and tune it!
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