Boondock Psycho

SIX WAYS TO SUNDAY (1997): Very original, unique crime drama/dark comedy. This is a bizarre, stylish film that takes the formulaic story line of a guy making his way up the ranks in the mob and turns it on its head. The movie manages to mix the typical mobster plot with elements of Psycho (1960) and Primal Fear (1996) and the result is truly fascinating. Norman Reedus (best known for his role as one of the Boondock Saints) deserves praise for his portrayal of Harry Odum, the complex protagonist. Harry, who lives with his overprotective mother (Deborah Harry) is recruited by the Jewish mob as an enforcer after revealing his underlying aggressive tendencies. Six Ways is very much a dark comedy (of the darkest variety) and I certainly did get some laughs out of it, but more impressive is the psychological study of an unhealthy mother/son relationship that permeates the film. This film is teeming with interesting characters, relationships and situations, and I applaud writer/director Adam Bernstein for giving us something though-provoking that strays far from the norm. Adrien Brody and Isaac Hayes have significant roles, and Brody in particular is fun to watch in a film that never fails to be compelling. Intriguing, unexpected plot twists and a truly disturbing but apt ending left me a big fan. Highly recommended for those that seek something different, but be warned that there is some very taboo subject matter that may offend or scare off some viewers. Rater R for graphic bloody violence, strong language, sexuality and brief drug use. Genre: Dark Comedy/Crime Drama. 97 minutes. Available on DVD on 8/24/99. My score: 7.5/10