I've got to admit...Eric Roberts' performance in this film is so reminiscent of one of my uncles that I could not help but feel instantly endeared to him and filled with a certain pity for his hapless nature. There are definitely moments of suspense (the "elevator" scene and the last five minutes in particular), and other times, the movie tends to drag a little. I've never seen "Mean Streets" (yeah, yeah, I know, I know) but with the many comparisons this film draws to that one, I think it's time to finally break down and rent it. Especially if it's a better film than this one, which, in my opinion, is definitely worth a watch for all of the fantastic acting (allbeit a tad over the top, but not unbelievable) contained within. And I'm talking even the supporting cast (Burt Young, M. Emmet Walsh, Kenneth McMillan, and most of all, Geraldine Page's Oscar-nominated supporting turn) shine in this film. A confirmed cult classic of the 80's riffing in the style of the 70's, check this one out if you're into any of the actors/actresses involved.