Loosies

Loosies is a 2011 American romantic comedy-drama film that features an engaging and quirky story, with an equally unexpected protagonist. Peter Facinelli, who also penned the script of the movie, plays the lead role of Bobby, a suave New York pickpocket living a carefree, pleasure-seeking life. The film also stars Jaimie Alexander and the seasoned Michael Madsen, who bring additional depth and charm to the narrative.

The storyline revolves around Bobby, who is quite adept at lifting wallets from unsuspecting victims all over the city. He works for a character named Jax, played by Vincent Gallo, an underworld figure who is both demanding and unpredictable. Despite the morality of his profession, Bobby is surprisingly likable and funny, a real charmer, deftly maneuvering through New York City and his illegal career with carefree panache, supported by a friendly policeman who unwittingly helps him avoid detection.

However, Bobby's life takes an unforeseen turn when he runs into an old fling, Lucy, played by Jaimie Alexander, who says she is pregnant with his child. While she is willing to single-handedly raise the baby, she thought Bobby had a right to know. This news causes him to rethink his decisions critically. At first, he freezes, but this revelation at the same time provides Bobby with a reason to reflect on his lifestyle and look beyond his immediate needs.

Lucy herself is a complex character with her own set of challenges. She is attempting to bring stability to her life after her previous whirlwind romance with Bobby, even as she deals with the emotional rollercoaster of the unplanned pregnancy. The chemistry between Bobby and Lucy is palpable, and their compelling shared history further enriches the narrative.

Michael Madsen plays Lt. 'Sully' Sullivan, a hard-boiled and ambitious cop determined to crack down on the surge of pickpocketing activities in the city while unaware that he's friendly with the very criminal he's hunting. The cat-and-mouse game adds an additional layer of thrill and suspense to the storyline.

Another critical aspect of the film is that it meticulously captures the vibrancy and pulsating energy of New York City, using it as a backdrop which ingeniously complements the fast-paced life of the protagonist. Director Michael Corrente successfully manages to keep the viewers engaged with several unexpected twists, while never letting the narrative lose its inherent charm and fun element, even when dealing with serious themes.

One of the film's major talking points is the lead actor Peter Facinelli, who is alternatively known for his roles in Twilight and Nurse Jackie. Loosies is a showcase of Facinelli's talents both in front of and behind the camera. His acting is engaging and his screenplay is sharp, filled with wisecrack humor and with intriguing characters brought to life by an efficient supporting cast which includes Joe Pantoliano and Christy Carlson Romano, among others.

The film successfully combines elements of comedy, drama, and romance, attached with an underlying theme of a crime plot. While the movie initially seems to be a light and breezy ride, it artfully incorporates substantial thematic depth, exploring concepts of responsibility, redemption, and the journey towards maturity. The dialogues are witty, the pacing is brisk, and the performances are enjoyable, making the movie an engaging viewing experience.

In conclusion, Loosies is a unique blend of romance, drama, and crime, that takes its viewers on a journey through the bustling streets of New York, with a likable criminal at its center. At its heart, it is a story of personal growth and maturity, wrapped in a cloak of pickpocketing and low-key crime. With its crisp narrative, commendable performances, and an unexpected flavor of romance, Loosies offers a gently affecting and heart-touching cinematic experience that is worth watching.