This is a fine entry in the field of low budget American indie films of the late 1980s and early 1990s, a vintage period. The story is flaky and ramshackle but the enjoyment is in the characters and in the comic details.
Steve Buscemi is one of those actors who is always great value, and it is good to see him hitting his stride at this early stage in his career. The disc extras include an interesting interview with him. His sheer love of the medium of film comes across well and it's easy to see how this powers his performances.
The other star turn is the great Seymour Cassel, veteran of many John Cassavetes movies, along with many other credits. Here he just seems to be having a ball, an infectious performance that lights up the whole film.
Jennifer Beals (then partner of the director, Alexandre Rockwell) also gives an assured, relaxed performance as Buscemi's beautiful muse.
The black-and-white cinematography is a delight, with stark contrasts and a pleasingly grainy feel.