The curious image above is of three friends, Doc (Christopher Walken), Hirsch (Alan Arkin), and Val (Al Pacino), who form the protagonists in the forthcoming film, STAND UP GUYS. Fisher Stevens (JUST A KISS) directed the action-comedy, which will premiere at the Chicago International Film Festival in January, and possesses a supporting cast brimming with potential; including Julianna Margulies (ER), Mark Margolis (BREAKING BAD), and Katheryn Winnick (BONES).
Valiant Val was thrown in prison after adhering to omertĂ (keeping schtum about one of his criminal buddies). Twenty-eight years later he is released and after reuniting with old friends, Doc and Hirsch, the trio reminisce on what they’ve been through, as well as what they’ve missed out on, before attempting to make up for the latter. It’s all fun and games until one of them threatens the sanctity of the group, as the dark secret he has locked away must be confronted. Can their friendship survive the bombshell?
The premise is not exactly original, admittedly, and neither is the theme of old-age pensioners getting their adrenaline pumping (see BUCKET LIST, RED, and LAST VEGAS for modern examples), but the cast alone should be enough to entice us. They have earned our respect and worship over the years, and we should afford them the benefit of the doubt. Besides, even if it’s awful, we can always focus on Walken, and amuse ourselves by attempting to imitate his infinitely fascinating voice.
Nils
Sep 7, 2012 at 5:17 pm
With a cast like that it has to be good or at the very least watch-able đ
Martin McDonagh
Sep 7, 2012 at 10:56 pm
Agreed. It’s a very impressive line-up, and I am slightly in love with Julianna Margulies, so I’m game for it!