Buffalo 66 [DVD] [1998]

A prime example of 1990s independent film-making, Buffalo 66 is a little-known gem of a film which, once found, will be cherished. Vincent Gallo--the New York Bohemian extraordinaire--co-wrote the semi-autobiographical script. He also directed and starred in this dark comedy and, as if that wasn't enough, contributed to the mind-blowing soundtrack. By employing alternative filming techniques for what is, in essence, a traditional boy-meets-girl story, Gallo has created an indie movie with genuine mainstream appeal. A handheld camera and the flashback sequences use beautiful grainy cine film and 70s Polaroids, while as a whole the tone of the piece shifts between lavish theatrical images and reality TV. However, out of the many mesmerising scenes within the film, it is the isolated performances that offer the most heartfelt beauty, notably Cristina Ricci's solo light tap dance and Gazzara's mime to a song actually performed by Gallo's father in the distant past. An all-star cast also includes Angelica Huston, Ben Gazzara and Mickey Rourke. Buffalo 66 is an overlooked modern classic just waiting to be discovered. --Nikki Disney