Reviews

Clips from a flick this good are exactly what you'll see when the "E! True Hollywood Story" is eventually made about its maker. While not exactly Spielberg's "Duel," Green's "Coffee and Donuts" firmly establishes itself as a stepping stone to greater things. It's not the best picture ever made (for $400 with borrowed equipment, apparently), but it's certainly my favorite. Having stumbled upon this dramatic comedy by luck (a friend of a friend of a friend had a copy of a copy ...), I found it to have an original story, given that it's autobiographical, although the lovelorn hero is analogous to Favreau's Mikey. Still, this is a great and uniquely moving film because its primary focus is the main character's internal conflicts rather than the arguably lesser end game: how Adam and Steve can become radio's next Opie and Anthony. Adam's personal struggle with a lost beloved is indeed universal, and that's part of the movie's genius. Coupled with a great soundtrack and almost intentional over-the-top acting, it reflects all that is innocent and unadulterated about independent films. I give it a 9 out of 10.