Movie Synopsis: In a world where money, guns and drugs are a way of life, two old enemies confront each other in a battle for love and power. Returning to Astoria Queens after being falsely imprisoned, Ryan looks up the ex-girlfriend who set him up. Although she's now married to Vincent, his old enemy, they can't deny their love. Soon, old vendetta's resurface between the two men. As Ryan tries to desperately avoid being pulled back into his old life he turns to a local priest for help. Unfortunately, nothing can be done to stop the final bloody showdown. Starring Vincent Pastore, Dominic Chianese, Michael Rodrick, Jonathan LaPaglia and Frank Vincent.

Worth Seeing? "Under Hellgate Bridge" was a story about a rehabilitated man named Ryan (Michael Rodrick), who reintroduced himself back into the environment of drugs and violence that had caused his corruption. He struggled to help his drug addicted brother, while at the same time trying to protect and regain the love of the woman who was now married to his enemy, Vincent (Jonathan Lapaglia). Would he be able to save his brother? Would he be able to free Carla and protect her from Vincent? These questions began to arise in my mind and they drew me into the story, which hadn't really captured my interest until then.

Filled with somewhat mediocre acting, Jonathan Lapaglia, the younger brother of the better known Anthony ("Lantana," 2001), gave a good performance as the jealous and frustrated gangster. The climax and conclusion were the most enjoyable to watch, with an ending that stayed true to the redemptive theme of the movie, without being too predictable. "Under Hellgate Bridge" should fare better with aspiring filmmakers and independent moviegoers. Moviegrade: C+

• Commentary with Director Michael Sergio
• Behind The Scenes Interviews
• New York Premiere Footage
• Film Festival Circuit Footage
• Short Film by the Producer
• Theatrical Trailers
  
  
• English Stereo
• 1.78:1 Widescreen
• Feature Length: 95 mins.
  

DVD Special Features Overall: By far, one of the most enjoyable aspects of this DVD were its special features. It showed a behind-the-scenes look at the reality of getting an independent film made. We learned that many of the shots were done with only two or three takes, because that was all that could be afforded. Michael Sergio placed an ad in a New York City newspaper in search of someone to finance the film. We learned how his ad paid off, and we watched as the actors and filmmakers took their little movie to three film festivals, including Sarasota. Also worth a look was producer Isil Bagdidi's short film entitled "The Blue Marble." DVD Special Features: A

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