The Comeback Trail

In debt to the mob and in need of a new money making scheme to save his skin, greedy grind-house film producer, Max Barber, (Robert Deniro) decides to produce a dangerous new film, all for the sake of killing his lead actor in a stunt so he can rake in the insurance money. But when he casts Duke Montana, (Tommy Lee Jones) an aging, washed up movie star as the lead, Max never expects the depressed old drunk to be revitalized by being in front of the camera again. Unable to kill Duke in a basic stunt, Max ups the stakes, putting Duke into ever more dangerous situations. And as Duke survives stunt after stunt, Max unwittingly starts making the best movie of his career. A cross between "Get Shorty" and "The Producers," THE COMEBACK TRAIL is a fun journey through the underbelly of Hollywood. Littered with a cast of unforgettable and outrageous characters, it will have you giggling.
Albert Gonzalez says:
"The Comeback Trail" presents a blend of humor and heart, though it doesn't quite rise to the heights one might hope for. The plot, while serviceable, tends to meander at times, lacking the crispness that could elevate its comedic potential. However, the film shines in its character development; each individual is crafted with care and brings a unique flavor to the story. The ensemble cast delivers commendable performances, breathing life into their roles with an infectious energy that keeps viewers engaged.
The chemistry among the actors is palpable, enhancing even the more predictable moments. While the pacing occasionally falters, leading to stretches that feel drawn out, the film manages to maintain a certain charm throughout. The humor strikes a balance between lighthearted banter and deeper emotional beats, making for an entertaining experience overall.
Visually, "The Comeback Trail" captures its setting effectively but doesn’t offer anything particularly groundbreaking in terms of cinematography. Still, it’s hard not to appreciate the earnestness behind this project; there’s a genuine affection for filmmaking woven into its narrative. In summary, while "The Comeback Trail" may not be a cinematic masterpiece, it offers enough laughs and heartfelt moments to warrant a watch for fans of light comedies looking for something enjoyable yet unassuming.
- Plot: OK
- Characters: Good
- Entertainment Value: OK
- Rated: R
- Genre: Comedy, Crime
- Release Date: 06/19/2021
- Directed by: George Gallo
- Written by: George Gallo, Josh Posner, Harry Hurwitz
- Starring: Robert De Niro, Tommy Lee Jones, Morgan Freeman