Read the book by one of the finest director's in the business, Sidney Lumet. It's called Making Movies and reading it made me want to see everything this man did. You want to learn about making a picture, read this and it will fill you in. This film I never knew about until I read the book and am thankful I did before I died. It has it all. First and foremost the performances. Everyone is committed to the best that they can do. Although Van Diesel is not the greatest actor, I don't care, because I believed him. The story is entertaining and perfectly paced and wonderful. The all important themes, Loyalty and love are defined. An exquisitely crafted movie and the story is true. Amazing to say the least. Everything is pitch perfect. The camera angles, the lighting the performances, the script. The whole thing hangs together like a good Swiss pocket watch.

I LOVED it. And I didn't think I would. I almost turned it off after about fifteen minutes because I was kinda tired, it was late, and Vin Diesel doesn't look nearly as hot without hair. But, I held out and I was given a real treat. It was excellent! Mr. Diesel can act well and is not just an action movie star. I found myself rooting for the smart ass mobster. I agree that Annabella Sciorra was good in her very small role and I wish we had seen more of her. Another thing, damn those guards for breaking up that hot, little scene they had going there. But, I digress and say that this movie was a filled with great laughs, good story line, and enough drama to make you really care about the characters. Definitely a thumbs up picture.

I was not surprised that Vin Diseal was so good in this movie. His role really is not a stretch from who he is in real life - a tough guy who grew up in New York City.That this is based on a real court room trial makes it all the funnier. The script writers used much of the transcripts from the trial of Mobster Jack DiNorscio. Crime may not pay, but it can be hilarious.Critics of this movie get wrapped around the axle that it is sympathetic to criminals. Forget the moral outrage, this particular criminal was funny, he was human, he did terrible things which the movie does portray.Maybe I'm more forgiving than some because I've known people like this in real life - not criminals, but real life everyday people who walk, talk and think like "Fat Jack" DiNorscio. You don't need a formal education to be smart, and you can rise to being a Prosecutor or Judge without smarts.I say watch, relax and enjoy.

I have never seen Vin look so handsome. I thought I liked the bald look, but I was wrong. His receding hairline has never looked so good. He has truly transformed himself for his work, and I admire that. I really enjoyed the diversity of the movie...Italians, midgets, lawyers, etc. It really brought things together. I feel I better understand the Italian culture and I have Vin to thank for that. After watching this movie, I definitely plan on holding out for a true Italian. How do you know they are a true Italian...they carry a flag around with them. Girls, if you have't dated or been with an Italian, I recommend you do.Jackie D doesn't rat...