I heard when this film debuted at film festivals, several audience members got up and left. I’m not surprised. This is challenging film. Long takes, experimental sound design, a non-traditional screenplay, and ultra-realistic acting. Also, this film is about being homeless and that’s a major turn-off for the general movie-going public.
Richard Gere commits fully as the tragic homeless man, his life spun out of control, estranged from his daughter, at rock bottom, wandering the streets of New York. It’s a powerful, uncompromising performance that gives a glimpse at the common sadness that is a homeless person’s life. The cinematography isn’t particularly interesting but that fits the film’s theme. The film moves along at a slow pace, perfectly illustrating the tedium, aimlessness, and disappointments of life on the street. I think a lot of people would probably be utterly bored by this film but I was enthralled. Keep that in mind if you check this out.