Blow

The storyline of this film is similar to that of films like CASINO, GOODFELLAS, or MEAN STREETS, perhaps even a little bit of the SCARFACE vibe in here as well. At least those are the films that I am reminded of when I watch BLOW. I won’t spend too much time discussing this film. It really is a beautiful film. It is based on the true life and crimes of George Jung who was a cocaine mogul in the 1970s – 1980s. True fact: 85 percent of all cocaine in the United States in the 1980s was there because of George. Johnny Depp plays George, and he actually met with the real life George Jung many times while researching and ironing out his role for this film. George Jung was a key component in the script writing process for this film and he was consulted with consistently during the production of BLOW.

The film follows the rise and ultimate demise of George throughout the phases of his life. For me, it is an eye-opening and entertaining look into the world of a drug dealer and the touch-n-go dynamics between family, friends, betrayal, and love. With a runtime over 2 hours prepare for a long film, but the pacing keeps it moving nicely and it never becomes tiresome. The acting, story, and characters feel real and vulnerable. We attach to them nicely for the journey. I love the soundtrack is probably my favorite feature about this movie. Set aside the stylized 1960s California surfer look and consider the music used to help propel this “period piece.” The Rolling Stones, Cream, Ram Jam, Manfredd Mann, Lynyrd Skynyrd, Bob Dylan, The Marshall Tucker Band, and the classic ‘Rumble’ by Link Wray. A musical era that touches my heart and this film does similarly.

Rating: 8.25/10