I'm always on the hunt for a great indie film cut from a different cloth than mainstream and not afraid to be bold. "Buffalo Bushido" is just that. It starts with the script and the biggest void I find in indie films is poor dialog. From the moment Bruce Glover and Peter McGennis start the film seated at a dumpster rambling about philosophy, you know that you're on a unspoiled, creative path. Glover is superb in his surreal identity and McGennis has a very likable quality to his dark, honest character similar to a rugged Clint Eastwood in his western days.
The performances continue to shine with Jesse L. Martin entering the picture. He's another wonderful "honest" actor who adds depth to McGennis' personal film. Leila Arcieri delivers what is by far her best work playing a real woman caught and honestly struggling with her past. She goes looking to uncover and succeeds in unraveling. We are then treated and assaulted by John Savage in a completely over-the-top, unforgettable performance as a manic parole officer. Fred Weller and Lord Jamar are terrific in their supporting roles. Again the word "honest" comes to mind as both Weller & Jamar deliver McGennis' creative script with precision. Noteworthy cameos by Lezley Zen and Jimmy "Superfly" Snuka keep us on our toes and move the film along in surprising ways.
Very strong ending, true to the story, shows McGennis is not a filmmaker to cop out. "Buffalo Bushido" is a bold, creative, personal film (somewhere between drama and thriller) that goes deep and makes you think and feel. A refreshing departure from the action-heavy films of today that don't make audiences think or invest. If you like smart films, you'll get a kick out of "Buffalo Bushido".
The performances continue to shine with Jesse L. Martin entering the picture. He's another wonderful "honest" actor who adds depth to McGennis' personal film. Leila Arcieri delivers what is by far her best work playing a real woman caught and honestly struggling with her past. She goes looking to uncover and succeeds in unraveling. We are then treated and assaulted by John Savage in a completely over-the-top, unforgettable performance as a manic parole officer. Fred Weller and Lord Jamar are terrific in their supporting roles. Again the word "honest" comes to mind as both Weller & Jamar deliver McGennis' creative script with precision. Noteworthy cameos by Lezley Zen and Jimmy "Superfly" Snuka keep us on our toes and move the film along in surprising ways.
Very strong ending, true to the story, shows McGennis is not a filmmaker to cop out. "Buffalo Bushido" is a bold, creative, personal film (somewhere between drama and thriller) that goes deep and makes you think and feel. A refreshing departure from the action-heavy films of today that don't make audiences think or invest. If you like smart films, you'll get a kick out of "Buffalo Bushido".