Leon's Fantasy Cut | Average Guy Movie Review

Two first generation Ukrainian-American brothers chase the American Dream. One hopes to go into business for himself, but is stuck working in a cell phone store. The other is a small-time pot dealer looking to get into the music business as manager to a promising young rapper. They share a studio apartment in Brooklyn and bicker constantly. But all this is temporary... right? After all, this is America.

Josh Caras and Jon Valde deliver a strikingly relatable tale in Leon's Fantasy Cut. Many of us will understand the place in which George (Caras) and Iggy (Valde) find themselves because we've either been there, or we are still. This is a movie that isn't afraid to broach the fact that the American Dream isn't out there for everyone - no matter how badly we want it. Moreover, the frustration, disappointment and even anger that such a realisation can bring is palpable throughout. Increasingly so, as we draw closer to a rather tense finale. 

Beyond the torment of the American Dream, Leon's Fantasy Cut also happens to be an interesting look at the human condition. The fact that we humans appear incapable of agreeing with each other is something that's explored in great detail, utilising the microcosm that is Brooklyn. And yet there can also be moments of great levity - for instance the scenes set in the barbershop for which this movie is named are especially fun, with Leon himself showing his funny side. 

All the while, Caras and Valde come off like genuine brothers. Arguing in that way only brothers can. And Ella Rae Peck's 'Ella' proves to be the perfect foil to both George the cynic and Iggy the blind optimist. Through some excellent performances we see how the baggage we carry with us through life can affect our relationships. Everything from upbringing and heritage, to religion and past experiences. More importantly, it examines how we can fail to take into account the points of view of others. One particularly relatable scene - which also happens to be my favourite - touches on art and how it can be magnificent to one person, and pretentious crap to another.

Despite dealing with some extremes, the genuine authenticity actually gives Leon's Fantasy Cut a real melancholy feel. Surprising as it may seem, however, this actually works in the movie's favour, because you really begin to empathise with the brothers. You're not simply waiting for them to achieve their dreams, as with most movies. Rather, you're almost down there in the trenches with them. It shows that Caras and Valde - in some way - understand what it means to have dreams and aspirations go unrealised, and they have channelled that blend of passion and pain into their movie.

A strikingly relatable take on the hunt for the American Dream moulded into an intriguing drama about the not so glamorous side of living in New York.

 

9/10

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