SYMPATHY FOR DELICIOUS: OFF-BEAT IS TASTY

Mark Ruffalo makes his directorial debut with an old friend, Christopher Thornton, better known here as DJ (Dean) Delicious. The story is unconventional and pushes the limits of believability. However it is that sense of magic and the powerful supporting cast that push the story along. Ruffalo also plays a priest working on skid row and notices the effect one of his flock has had on another. Soon this young man learns about faith healing and his ability to do it. The catch: he is is a wheelchair and can not heal himself. A reluctant hero, Dean is pushed to his limits before he decides to sell his gift to the highest bidder, which also puts him in an up and coming band, something he loved before his crippling accident. He is no saint and follows the reckless life of women, booze and drugs before a terrible tragedy takes him away from all of that. So what does he do now? Where does he belong and can he be saved from himself? Also starring Orlando Bloom as a cocky lead singer of the band, a ethereal Juliette Lewis and a power hungry, tough Laura Linney. It wasn't until I watched the extras that I learned that Thornton not only stars in the film and star being the key word, but he wrote the screenplay and also happens to be in a wheelchair in real life. I can't wait to see what he does next. Ruffalo however, should stick with acting. Again, one of those odd stories with compelling characters well acted by top talent. Not everyone will like it, but I did.