American Buffalo

What may work in a theater might not necessarily adapt well for the screen. In the case of American Buffalo, it doesn't work at all. Based on David Mamet's play, the film follows a fast-talking hustler (Dustin Hoffman) who convinces his junk dealer friend (Dennis Franz) to steal back a precious nickel he sold cheap. Though the script is well-written, director Michael Corrente doesn't restrain his actors, resulting in an overstated performance by Hoffman. Since the film is set in mainly one room, the acting seems even more overdone and Mamet's play becomes lost in the translation. Not recommended. (L. Russo)