Staten Island

Staten Island is an intriguing crime-drama film that takes the viewers on an unexpected ride through the underbelly of New York’s oft-forgotten borough. Released in 2009, the film was directed by James DeMonaco, the mastermind behind the renowned "Purge" franchise. The narrative unfolds through the interconnected stories of three men striving to make a life in the least-celebrated of New York's five boroughs.

The first of the trio is Sully Halverson, played by Ethan Hawke, known for his exceptional performances in films such as "Training Day" and "Before Sunset." Sully is a hardworking, blue-collar septic tank cleaner, struggling each and every day to make ends meet. He's a devoted family man, anxious about providing for his pregnant wife. In order to ensure a better future for his unborn child, he resorts to a daring plan to rob an ice cream vendor, who also happens to be the former boss of Jasper Sabiano (played by Seymour Cassel)—an enigmatic immigrant and herb-grower who unfolds another story.

Jasper's tale is steeped in Staten Island folklore, and he is known in the neighborhood for his herb-infused culinary creations. As a nearly-retired career criminal, he has daunting encounters with life-threatening situations. However, beneath the gruff exterior lies a man with a heart equal parts pure and broken—the result of a life lived raw and unfettered. He's a man known to brew a "special" variety of herbs, procured by the commanding mob boss...

Enter Parmie Tarzo, the terrifying yet intriguing character essayed by the supremely talented Vincent D'Onofrio. As a self-made man, Parmie has clawed his way up from abject poverty to become Staten Island’s undefeatable mob boss. He casts a long shadow over the community, ruling with a sense of entitlement and brutality laced with a touch of eccentricity. His storyline takes an interesting turn as he tries to leave an enduring legacy and goes to great lengths to realize an unusual ambition: To have the forest named after him as a preservationist.

As the tales of these three protagonists seamlessly intertwine, they illustrate the intertwining themes of power, aspiration, morality, and survival. The film gives an offbeat portrayal of each character’s quest to achieve their dreams—which range from bizarre to basic human needs—in the face of contrasting circumstances. While the lives of these three characters cross paths in unpredictable ways, they also serve as a microcosm of life in their corner of Staten Island.

Ethan Hawke’s portrayal of a conflicted man, desperate to secure the wellbeing of his family yet burdened by an unsettled conscience, is commendable. His screen presence skillfully captures the pathos of his character. On the other hand, Vincent D'Onofrio as the capricious mob boss who seeks recognition by conspicuous environmental venture fascinates with his peculiar interpretation of the character. Lastly, Seymour Cassel, the veteran actor, brings warmth and emotion to his role as the compassionate, folksy Jasper.

Shot against the backdrop of Staten Island’s industrial landscape, the film presents a unique mix of grit and charm. It's beautifully captured by the astute lens of Director of Photography, Christopher Norr, who is able to showcase the dichotomy of the ambient scenic beauty juxtaposed with the harsh realities of life in the borough.

The dialogues strike a balance between humour and introspection, making the screenplay riveting and engaging. The narrative weaves in elements of unexpected twists and also provides social commentary that adds depth to the story.

With a powerful ensemble cast and formidable direction, Staten Island is a potent cocktail of various genres. It oscillates between action-thriller, black comedy, and poignant drama to keep audiences on their toes. While bearing the unmistakable signature of a James DeMonaco film, Staten Island proves itself to be a unique and intriguing exploration of life, ambition, crime, and survival in the least glamorous corner of New York.

To conclude, Staten Island is a movie that takes the audiences into the heart of the city’s underrepresented borough, revealing an engrossing tale of crime, ambition, survival, and the often blurred line between right and wrong. Visually arresting and emotionally nuanced, it provides a compelling insight into the lives of its characters and their quest for survival, redemption, and lasting legacy. Whether you are a fan of crime dramas, or simply appreciate layered storytelling, Staten Island is a film that merits a spot on your watch-list.