As a subscriber of DIRECTV, I had the good fortune to see this film on Sundance, as well as another very low budget film shot on DV tape called "First, Last & Deposit" on IFC (Independent Film Channel). These are two offerings that I never would have seen on the big screen, much less have been able to rent on tape or DVD. It made me feel fortunate that cable channels like Sundance & IFC exist for those viewers who crave challenging films with a dramatic, realistic punch. The acting in "Virgil Bliss" alone is absolutely stunning and will stay with you long after you've seen it. As a few others have pointed out, this film may not receive enough exposure to give actors Clint Jordan or Kirsten Russell their "big break", but trust me, if you've seen this little gem, you will remember them. You may see this film by accident. I doubt that Sundance will promote it the way that HBO would a "Men In Black II" or an Adam Sandler film, but if you get another chance, see it and remember it. "Virgil Bliss" is so gritty and realistic that it passes for a shot-on-videotape docu-drama, but it's much more. You will root for Virgil, and you will accept Ruby. You will remember these characters and understand them. The acting you will never forget. Let's hope it receives recognition beyond the select group of viewers who have seen it so far. If it does, let's give thanks to fearless film-makers like Joe Maggio and vehicles in which to see their work, like IFC & Sundance. Amen.
Review of Virgil Bliss
