West End

West End is a fascinating drama and crime film released in 2013, helmed by the talented director, Joe Basile. This engaging, suspense-filled movie features an impressive ensemble cast which includes Neal Bledsoe, Joe Nieves, and Peter Onorati, each performing their roles to perfection, adding depth and intensity to their characters and the overall storyline.

The film opens with Vic Trevi (portrayed by Neal Bledsoe), an exiled son of New Jersey mobster Santo Trevi (played by Peter Onorati). Vic is drawn back home when his father is gunned down during a special task force raid for illegal activities. Despite having distanced himself from his roots to follow a more honorable path - that of a North Jersey cop, this unexpected event forces him to confront the world he had earlier escaped from and grapple with his complex feelings about his past.

Vic's quest for truth takes a complicated turn when he's thrown into a web of violent family dealings and conflicting ideals. He's disturbed by the devastating impact his father's corrupt lifestyle has had on his family and community. As he dives deeper into unraveling the mystery behind his father's death, Vic is forced to call his notions of loyalty, duty, and honor into question.

West End further escalates when Vic finds his father's right-hand man and his childhood rival, Jimmy (portrayed wonderfully by Joe Nieves), taking reigns of the fallen empire. Vic must navigate these treacherous waters while his personal and professional life hangs in the balance. The film smartly uses the backdrop of a coastal New Jersey town ravaged by Hurricane Sandy, symbolizing the destructive effect of crime and corruption on societal infrastructure.

Among the film's most commendable aspects is its stark, down-to-earth portrayal of the underworld, done in a manner that neither glorifies nor condemns it outright. Instead, it highlights the very human characters caught up in its vicious cycle. It tells the tale of a man at odds with his upbringing, one who struggles to balance the love for his family against the crimes they commit.

Moreover, the performances, particularly from Neal Bledsoe, are noteworthy. He convincingly carries the weight of his character's internal struggles, delivering a nuanced portrayal of a man caught between his moral compass and blood ties. Peter Onorati, too, is exceptional as Vic's father, compelling viewers to both revile and empathize with his character. Joe Nieves ranks among the standout performances, adding a layer of antagonism and rivalry that brilliantly complements the film's atmosphere of tension and suspense.

Joe Basile's skillful direction is important to mention. He immerses the viewers into this gripping underworld narrative, highlighting the personal and societal impacts upon those who live this life. He’s also successful in exploring themes such as familial obligations, moral dilemmas, and the drastic consequences of one's choices through sharp dialogue and a keen eye for detail.

Further, the film's evocative music, composed by David Mansfield, adds an enhanced depth and emotion to each scene. The moody lighting and stark cinematography provide a realistic and grim view of the Jersey Shore, enhancing the overall tone of the storyline.

While West End pays homage to classic mob films, it spins an original tale by delving into the complexities and dilemmas of its unique characters. It's not just a crime drama, but a film where coastal New Jersey becomes a character in itself - battling storms both natural and man-made.

In summary, West End is a captivating crime drama that fans of the genre will appreciate and enjoy. The film boasts a dynamic plot, riveting performances, and a gritty realism that makes it an engaging watch from start to finish. It's a cinematic journey into the heart of a rugged shore town, where love and loyalty clash with law and order, and where every choice can have dire consequences. While the shadow of organized crime looms large, it is the human story at its core that truly resonates.