The Real Deal is a spoof on low budget films. It's listed as a thriller, but either the producers or the distributors missed the bus on the genre they chose to list the film under. If you're looking for a scary movie, this isn't for you. if you sit down to watch, holding tightly on to your grain of salt, you'll likely be in for a rather entertaining, but sometimes just a little slow, ride. Your first clue that this film might not be taking itself too seriously is in its cast. It is chock full of tongue in cheek, B movie stars, including A Baldwin (Danny), Michael Madsen, andAngie Everhart. Lillo Brancato who is straddling the fence between A and Bmovie stardom does a somewhat credible, though at times a little stiff, job as the film's lead, Sam. Joe Reitman (aka Mr. Elizabeth) does a great job as the"Buddy", but Danny Baldwin steals the show as Vince Vassar, Sam'soverbearing boss. The film has decent production value, though it's impossible for it to break the bonds of it's low budget shackles. It's shot entirely at one location, which can become tedious at times, but the filmmakers do utilize their limited space well. Some shots do tend to run on, and at times i wonder if this a good style choice. The story can be confusing at times, the film flashes back and forth seeminly without warning. But, upon a second viewing (yes i wasinterested enough to watch it twice) everthing became clear. All the information is there, you just have to know what you're looking at. I wasn't expecting the ending i got, and that was refreshing. The Real Deal won't win many awards,but if you're looking for something a little off the beaten track, this film might just fit your bill.

Rented this movie in a video store last night and was very disappointed. Unconvincing acting, unconvincing story with lots of logical holes, an aftertaste of a cheap softcore erotic thriller. Baldwin has some good moments, but apart from that I was falling asleep. Stay away.