A surprisingly blunt and direct look at the type of Bostonians you don't want to meet in the alley behind "Cheers". The characters played out convincingly, Leary being a local I'm sure helped. Misconception: This movie is not about, or in Southie (of "Good Will Hunting" fame). It is in Charlestown (Chucktown to townies). Monument Ave. runs straight up to...Bunker Hill Monument. However, the film is flawed. The camera work does not add to the movie, Martin Sheen does not add grit or realism, and the climax is overplayed. The set-up, however, is gripping and well-done. The underbelly of these tight Boston communities is exposed to the viewer. Plus, look for the cameos by Boston comedic legend Lenny Clarke ("Laroquette Show" I think) and Greg Dulli ("Afghan Whigs", highly underrated Ohio band).
Review of Monument Ave.
