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Official Synopsis:
When PJ Lee's (Tom Guiry) father (John Heard) is arrested for vehicular manslaughter, it's just the icing on the cake for a teen whose life is already difficult, thanks to a broken home and dysfunctional relationships. In short order, PJ gets fired, has a falling out with his girlfriend (America Ferrera) and is kicked out of the family home. Through it all, however, the film -- which earned a Grand Jury nod at the Sundance Film Festival -- manages to strike a hopeful tone.
Our Take:
When watching a movie or reading a book, my favorites are those that tell a great story where I can engross myself in the characters’ reactions to situations. Steel City, a 2006 Sundance Film Festival Grand Jury Prize Nominee, delivers that in a gritty drama that draws you in and had me pulling for the characters from the start.
Tom Guiry is easy to empathize with as he struggles to make a life for himself despite the obstacles of his dysfunctional family. He has definitely matured into a quality actor from his first role as Scotty Smalls in The Sandlot. John Heard gives a strong performance as a father trying to redeem himself. The rest of the cast is made up of familiar faces such as Laurie Metcalf, James McDaniel, Heather McComb, Clayne Crawford, and all added quality to this movie, but Raymond J. Barry as unconventional Uncle Vic stole the show for me. It’s no wonder he received the Film Independent’s Spirit Award Nomination for Best Supporting Male Actor. While not a character per se, the often dark and moody soundtrack contributes to the emotional context of the movie, setting the tone of the scenes being played out.
My sole complaint about this movie is America Ferrera being cast in yet another role as the “fat” girl. She is a beautiful young woman and Hollywood should celebrate her.
The DVD contains many bonus features that enhance the experience. The commentaries give insights into different perspectives on the film.
* Deleted Scenes (11 minutes).
* For Jimmy Brown – A short film by Writer/Director Brian Jun (11 minutes).
* Filmmaker & Cast Commentary – Featuring Writer/Director Brian Jun, Director of Photography Ryan Samul, John Heard and Clayne Crawford.
* Filmmaker Commentary – Featuring Writer/Director Brian Jun and Director of Photography Ryan Samul.
* Photo Gallery.
* Steel City Trailer.
* Trailer Gallery.
Steel City is a well made family drama with an exceptional cast. For all its darkness, it is a movie of hope and redemption.
RECOMMENDED!
Overall Picture:
Movie: A-
DVD: B
- Marcia Keefe
Staff Writer
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