First of all, Linda Manz alone is a reason to see this movie. Her presence is a force. She is the epitome of non-actor vibes effectively channeled through an acting performance - her character feels immensely real because she comes from a hard place. She doesn't need to sell a role like this because she has lived it, and that comes through on the screen.

Dennis Hopper puts in a tasteful directing/writing/acting triple whammy delivery here as well. Always intimidating with flashes of endearment and dark humor. He is legend for a reason.

Though the characters are all living menacing lifestyles, you feel at ease with them through the majority of the film, giving the movie a sort of floaty, hangout sort of vibe - but with a dirty, stained surface. But, you can only play with fire for so long. The conclusion comes quickly, or, "out of the blue", if you will, and I've got to say, it hits HARD. Heavy subject matter, delivered in as meaningful a manner as it really could be, and in it's own singular light...

This film will certainly not sit well with everyone, but for those who can appreciate reflections of realistic darkness, this film is a great accomplishment.