Brooklyn Lobster

This film begins with a son returning back to Brooklyn to spend the holidays with his family. The timing stinks, however, since his dad is about to lose his business and his parents are splitting up. Because of all these pressures, this is definitely NOT a "feel good holiday film" nor is it as uplifting and happy as some reviews make it appear to be. I really think that the reviews are mostly a bit too positive. Considering most reviews give the film a 9 or 10 and the overall rating is just over 6, my review might just be more in line with the average viewer.

I am a sucker for independent film productions. Having gotten tired of all the glitz and special effects in a typical Hollywood film, I deliberately seek out plot-driven films where characters actually are important (a crazy concept, I know). So it's not at all surprising that I watched BROOKLYN LOBSTER. However, in hindsight, I wish I probably hadn't because the main character (played by Danny Aiello) is a very selfish jerk. At times you can understand and sympathize with his plight, but even if times were good, he STILL would have been a jerk. And because he is so integral to the plot, the overall impact of the film is diminished. Watchable and full of good acting, yes, but still not particularly outstanding or fun to watch.

Also, be forewarned--the language is a tad intense at times. The easily offended should probably stay clear.

Finally- a true independent film that believes that well developed characters, realistic dialogue, and a true to life story make a good film instead of explosions and potty humor.

Every performance is nuanced, every character flawed, every joke funny... and it clearly a labor of love. I look forward to when this movie is released in more theaters so I can see it again. Who doesn't want to watch something that makes you feel good in an entirely plausible context? It is nice to escape when you are the movies, but it also nice to believe what you are escaping to can happen.

I actually believed the people in this movie were a family and cared about each other. And who knew that the lobster business would be so interesting?

This movie is a labor of love for its writer and director, who has created this autobiograghical film. A family with a 60 year old business is hit with many changes, and the film loving deals with how the patriarch handles these problems. You cannot help but enjoy the movie, as Danny Aiello once again plays a tough Italian father who tries to hold on. Jane Curtin plays his wife with care and success and the rest of the actors do a fine job, but it's Danny show. Though the themes are clearly universal, anyone from Brooklyn (or New York, for that matter) will feel an affinity for the characters and the settings, and there are a number of items in the film which give a New yorker a warm feel of familiarity. A little film, made in New York, by a New York, with New Yorkers. Go see it and support New York films.

I saw this film at a screening in LA recently and truly enjoyed it. Genuine and full of heart, and I thought the acting was terrific. I don't know why Danny Aiello hasn't had more leading roles before this, and I was impressed by Jane Curtain in a drama since she's really only been in comedies, like SNL. Once I was immersed in the story, I really felt for these characters, and I could definitely identify with the son's conflicted feelings of loyalty towards his dad and his dad's business. No matter what happens, you will always love your parents, but often times there are things about them that drive you crazy and make you swear you'll never be like them. I thought this movie was well-written -- the dialogue seemed like conversations between real people, not trite like a lot of Hollywood movies. Nice to see an indie that you can actually relate to.

Brooklyn Lobster, poignant story about a man's love for his work, his family and his traditions. My wife and I enjoyed the film immensely and should be seen by all. The acting was genuine and both Danny Aiello and Jane Curtin should be applauded for the fact that they participated for the love of it, for a project they believed in, rather than for the almighty dollar. I especially appreciated the performance of Henry Yuk who I grew up with in the old neighborhood on Avenue J. The movie brings out the best in what people are. After the movie, Kevin Jordan held a Q&A session and those who watched the film gained a better appreciation for the family and the struggles they endured.