TWO BITS
A film review by Ben Hoffman
Copyright 1995 Ben Hoffman
This is a nostalgic film about a child, his mother, and his grandfather. It takes place in South Philadelphia in the summer of 1933 when two bits (25 cents) was, in the time of that depression, what some men would beg to earn for a day's work. On the day the film opens, a truck with music and billboards is going through town announcing the Grand Opening of a new Movie Palace, with the admission price of 25 cents until 6 PM.
Looking wistfully at the truck as it passes is twelve-year-old Gennaro Spirito (Jerry Barone); how he would love to have had the necessary two bits. Gennaro lives with his mother, Mary Elizabeth Mastrantonio, and his sister, and his grandfather (Al Pacino) who is not only his best friend but also his mentor on what is happening in the world. Grandpa announces that this is his last day on earth, that he will give Gennaro 25 cents when he dies. Gennaro does not like the idea of his grandfather dying so that he can go to the movies.
Although Gennaro tries to pick up some change by performing in the streets, he remains empty handed. Grandpa offers his grandson one other opportunity to earn the two bits. It seems that when grandpa was a young man, many years ago, he had hurt a young woman and he wants Gennaro to visit the old lady and offer Grandpa's late apology.
Jerry Barone is a handsome youngster with a sweet, kind face. He is well able to fit right in with the older stars, Pacino and Mastrantonio who give their usual fine performances.
Director James Foley keeps the film purposely at a slow pace, reflecting the depression, the summer heat, the boy's frustration and Grandpa's last days. Very nicely done.
2.75 bytes
4 Bytes = Superb
3 Bytes = Too good to be missed.
2 Bytes = So so.
1 Byte = Save your money.
-- Ben Hoffman
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