Gimme the Loot (AF)

Stars: Tashiana Washington, Ty Hickson, Zoe Lescaze, Sam Soghor, Meeko

Director: Adam Leon

After you accept Adam Leons debut movie as writer-director contains enough F-words for Britains Channel 4 television channel happily to buy the film unseen, there much to like watching determined Bronx teenagers Tashiana Washington and Ty Hickson seeking revenge against the rival graffiti artists who have ruined their latest work. They intend to make their mark by tagging the iconic plastic apple that appears whenever the Mets hit a home run at New Yorks Shea Stadium.

But theres one small problem.

The daring duo need $500 to pull off their scheme. Leons lively show follows Washington and Hickson in their none-too-honest quest to raise the money, an addled odyssey that involves petty larceny, dishonestly hustling marijuana, shoplifting and assorted attempts at crime that, rather surprisingly, renders the protagonists surprisingly endearing, thanks in large manner to pleasing comedy and the characters themselves.

Leon, were informed, apprenticed for Woody Allen and in post-production for two years. It makes sense. Adams approach to comedy in a context of petty crime recalls Allen in those long ago days when he wasnt hooked on making a movie every year, regardless to quality as his unreleased BBC film Scoop so sadly proved.

Unfamiliar and well-used New York locations, attractively photographed by Jonathan Miller, add to the impact of a minor but enjoyable comedy whose larcenous heart adds to the entertainment.

Alan Frank

USA 2012. UK Distributor: Soda Picture. Colour.
78 minutes. Not widescreen. UK certificate: 15.

Guidance ratings (out of 3): Sex/nudity 2, Violence/Horror 0, Drugs 3, Swearing 3.

Review date: 01 May 2013