THE POOR AND HUNGRY
D: Craig Brewer; with Eric Tate, Lindsey Roberts, Lake Latimer, John Still.
Searing even in black-and-white digital video, The Poor and Hungry stands as proof that writer/director Craig Brewer could helm a full-scale film production. But somehow this down-and-out tale seems to fit best within the low-budget immediacy of its format. Money has always been scarce for car-jacker Eli (Tate) and his street-hustling pal Harper (Roberts), so neither one thinks anything of the methods they employ just to get by. But all that changes when Eli, mesmerized by a cello recital he overhears while stealing a young woman’s car, pauses to consider his victim (Latimer). Eli must now find a way to break free from a life marred by a history of “bad things,” and undo the transgression against his newfound muse. Brewer’s debut feature reflects a narrative maturity and cinematic virtuosity still alien to many established directors. Backed by brave performances on par with Brewer’s own directorial dexterity, The Poor and Hungry confidently weaves a tragedy worthy of Greek drama on the unforgiving Memphis city streets.
This article appears in October 20 • 2000.