Never mind the clearly bogus high reviews, and this film is certainly more deserving than the 1/10's, so here's an honest real review; it's a decent and one-time watchable B-Film. The story is nothing new, but has a nice flow and continuity to it, with very little plot and technical issues, and decent action. The 100 min runtime could've used a 10-15 min trim to get rid of some of the filler. Pacing was decent, as was the cinematography and score, especially for a B film. I've never heard of any of the actors, but they performed fairly decent, although the Walter White looking guy and the lead FBI agent Nicoye Banks could've had better casting choices. Nevertheless, it's no 10 and certainly not a 1, but a fair 7/10 for one of the better watchable B films I've seen in a while.
29 Reviews
trying to be better movies
SnoopyStyle30 July 2023
In New Orleans, two brothers and their military brothers form a bank robbery crew. They use their military skills to the fullest, but they are surprised by the unexpected arrival of a SWAT team. The FBI is leading the charge as the city is on high alert for the surviving crew members. Ava is their inside woman at the bank. They are lifelong companions from the Irish Channel neighborhood of New Orleans.
There are some good action sequences. The opening bank robbery is good. There is a great section where they are captured by a black crime lord. The rest is a bit of a struggle. The robbery crew does a passable job at being hard. The opening joke reminds me of the inappropriate humor from Predator. The action reminds me of the kinetic energy of Heat. It's obvious that this film is pulling inspiration from some of the best action thrillers around. Problem is that it's beyond their abilities. I would really cut back on the cops in this cops and robbers drama. The actors and filmmaker do struggle at times outside of the bloody gun violence.
There are some good action sequences. The opening bank robbery is good. There is a great section where they are captured by a black crime lord. The rest is a bit of a struggle. The robbery crew does a passable job at being hard. The opening joke reminds me of the inappropriate humor from Predator. The action reminds me of the kinetic energy of Heat. It's obvious that this film is pulling inspiration from some of the best action thrillers around. Problem is that it's beyond their abilities. I would really cut back on the cops in this cops and robbers drama. The actors and filmmaker do struggle at times outside of the bloody gun violence.
Wow! much better than I thought it would be
fluffchop22 August 2023
Warning: Spoilers
I have no idea why it's called The Channel. Maybe it's a reference to something locals would know about. They mentioned cops going through the neighbourhood.
Lot's of gun shots. Up there with Heat for gun play. Not a bad story. Your typical heist goes wrong and the cops turn up. It plays out from there.
There are some FBI and some cops. There's some black guys that get mixed up in it too.
Imagine if trained military started robbing banks. Oh dear right. That's what this movie is. These guys are quick on the trigger and well trained.
The mission would have been successful if not for a rat that dropped a dime on them and that's why the cops came.
From there it's a shootout across the neighbourhood. I'm kind of glad to not live in America with all the guns.
A solid movie well worth a watch.
Lot's of gun shots. Up there with Heat for gun play. Not a bad story. Your typical heist goes wrong and the cops turn up. It plays out from there.
There are some FBI and some cops. There's some black guys that get mixed up in it too.
Imagine if trained military started robbing banks. Oh dear right. That's what this movie is. These guys are quick on the trigger and well trained.
The mission would have been successful if not for a rat that dropped a dime on them and that's why the cops came.
From there it's a shootout across the neighbourhood. I'm kind of glad to not live in America with all the guns.
A solid movie well worth a watch.
Son of Mann
drunk_please_disregard4 February 2024
A fun, shoestring-budget type, heist movie that borrows heavily from superior films in the genre. Namely and obviously the 199x movie "Heat". It's almost like the writers of this movie just finished Breaking Bad and then watched Heat directly preceding receiving the inspiration for writing this film. All that said, you could do worse than Breaking Bad and Heat for touchstones imo. The acting is not great (especially from the dude who played the good bro and the dude who played Pacino's cop character) and some of the lines are just awful but I found it enjoyable. Lots of gunfights and sincere but laughably terrible attempts at N'Orlins accents. I have definitely seen worse.
Absolutely Horrible
tylermatthew-5209316 July 2023
Bad acting from the first spoken word. They actually in a round about way plagiarized from all the heist movies. That includes not only certain scripts but action sequences as well. They even went as far as trying to emulate the characters from the movie heat. Anybody who is a fan of heist movies. Which if you are. You realize it's complicated to make a good one. I watched it because it had a great 9.4 rating. So I rented it. Save yourself the money and time. This was awful. On a different note the site says to complete a review it needs 600 words so I'm just gonna finish this out typing whatever. Once.
Decent but highly derivative B film
martyhmoore-7915422 April 2024
Was better than expected, but highly derivative of other films such as The Town, Sicario, and Heat. That said it was a very well done B film with competent actors. They made the most of their budget, as they filmed in New Orleans with the very attractive incentives from said city, and they made the most of showcasing the sites and flavor. Not a bad way to spend 90 minutes.
And since I'm required to write and essay now, the music was just like the town and really lots were like the town. Only the town is New Orleans now. But the town was an Oscar nominated film with A list budget and actors. If you haven't seen the town yet then watch this first then watch the original.
And since I'm required to write and essay now, the music was just like the town and really lots were like the town. Only the town is New Orleans now. But the town was an Oscar nominated film with A list budget and actors. If you haven't seen the town yet then watch this first then watch the original.
Oy Vey
mtchellparker16 July 2023
Warning: Spoilers
When I'm watching this movie, all I can think about is heat and the character. Detective Vincent Hannah had a problem with his daughter and this movie. This detective has a problem with his daughter. And it's just the same script in a different movie, and it isn't filmed as well. Isn't directed as well? It's a C minus film but I do like the character who played Mac in the TV series. The unit with Dennis Haysbert, that's much better..
A great example is when they're robbing the bank with the key We're Neil punches him in the face. And says let it bleed, and then this guy gets the key And they beat him up anyways...
And finally, it has the same ending as True Romance, which is an A Plus film.
Where is original thinking and screen writing today????
A great example is when they're robbing the bank with the key We're Neil punches him in the face. And says let it bleed, and then this guy gets the key And they beat him up anyways...
And finally, it has the same ending as True Romance, which is an A Plus film.
Where is original thinking and screen writing today????
Town 2023
fariborzzaksea3 August 2023
An action movie , almost the same as "Town " 2010 starring Ben Affleck but not as high class as Town. Actors talk the same as street thugs to show that they are tough . Almost the whole movie has low class action scenes constantly , Robbers come with assault rifles and one of hero police comes with shotgun !!! To fight them . The Director/writer is William Kaufman , the director/writer of Sinners and Saints (2010) which was wonderful movie , I also have watched Hit List by William Kaufman which also was wonderful movie. On the whole the movie theme is action "Town 2010" type movie but as I said not as high class as Town 2010.
Dang, a near complete rip off of Heat, with crappy actors
Xavier_Stone5 September 2023
Warning: Spoilers
So many similarities to Heat that I'm surprised the writer has not been sued for plagiarism. Seriously. Same type of crew doing a bank heist, one gets shot and has to go to a doctor to get fixed. Wife problems, daughter issues. Even the same lingo, "van was stolen out of next city 3 days ago."
These 2 writer/directors have done only a handful of movies and all are 5/10 or less. I love Max Martini but here he is just hand cuffed with poor dialogue and dumbed down action.
I gave up about half way through and just decided to watch Heat again.
Tons of single review accounts attempting to convince you this is a decent movie. Take a good look at the camera work and angles. It reminds me of a Steven Segal flick of old with all the cut scenes running of top of each other to hide his gut.
Nicoye Banks was just about as cardboard as can be, and is like a fish out of water here. Plenty of other flimsy actors as well so it's all awkward really.
These 2 writer/directors have done only a handful of movies and all are 5/10 or less. I love Max Martini but here he is just hand cuffed with poor dialogue and dumbed down action.
I gave up about half way through and just decided to watch Heat again.
Tons of single review accounts attempting to convince you this is a decent movie. Take a good look at the camera work and angles. It reminds me of a Steven Segal flick of old with all the cut scenes running of top of each other to hide his gut.
Nicoye Banks was just about as cardboard as can be, and is like a fish out of water here. Plenty of other flimsy actors as well so it's all awkward really.
Surprisingly good.. if you adjust your expectations
ipkevin-561-13538029 July 2023
The Channel is a low budget film, but one done with style and skill. It's clearly influenced by crime films like Heat and 21 Bridges (the main cop even looks like Chadwick Boseman!), but the plot manages to go to places that those films did not. The result is a movie that feels fresh and thrilling despite wearing its influences on its sleeve.
The film's secret weapon is definitely director William Kaufman, who has made a career of turning out big action on tiny budgets. His signature is creating visceral, realistic-ish gunfights and he doesn't disappoint here. Shootouts that would last 30 seconds in other movies instead go on for 3-5 minutes here and escalate in a pleasing fashion. I wouldn't say The Channel has the best shootouts he's ever made (see The Brave or Daylight's End for that), but this is certainly the best film he's made. It holds up even during the non-action scenes and I found myself invested in the predicament of the main characters.
If you can accept action movies without big studio production values, then The Channel is a good time at the movies.
The film's secret weapon is definitely director William Kaufman, who has made a career of turning out big action on tiny budgets. His signature is creating visceral, realistic-ish gunfights and he doesn't disappoint here. Shootouts that would last 30 seconds in other movies instead go on for 3-5 minutes here and escalate in a pleasing fashion. I wouldn't say The Channel has the best shootouts he's ever made (see The Brave or Daylight's End for that), but this is certainly the best film he's made. It holds up even during the non-action scenes and I found myself invested in the predicament of the main characters.
If you can accept action movies without big studio production values, then The Channel is a good time at the movies.
Guys in masks rob a bank
nogodnomasters5 August 2023
Warning: Spoilers
Mick (Max Martini) and Jamie (Clayne Crawford) Sheridan live in an area of New Orleans called "The Irish Channel." They are called Y'at and have an accent that resembles that of Brooklyn. They lead a group of six marine vets on a bank heist of three million dollars that goes bad. The brothers manage to escape in a shoot out, killing cops. They are now faced with multiple problems. They have a partner who has shot and is bleeding out. The money needs to be washed. And the FBI knows their identity. Jamie plans to do the inane Butch Cassidy thing and escape to Bolivia.
The good guys are cop killers and bank robbers. Jamie suffered from PTSD dreams which didn't play a part of the film other than take up time. Characters not well developed or likeable in an improbable plot.
Guide: F-word. No sex or nudity.
The good guys are cop killers and bank robbers. Jamie suffered from PTSD dreams which didn't play a part of the film other than take up time. Characters not well developed or likeable in an improbable plot.
Guide: F-word. No sex or nudity.
Don't loose your time or money with this
bertoliniadri25 July 2023
The actions scenes are boring and realistic. The movie starts with some cheap looking first person shooting with a green filter to represent night vision. Some NPCs with bad AI spawn around, making a lot of noise, so they can be easily killed.
After this pointless and tedious scene, we finally see our "hero": a guy who looks like one of those drunken homeless punks you find in train stations. He has the charisma of a dead fish and the acting talent of Selena Gomez.
The professional soldiers keep screaming what they intend to do so their enemy can predict their actions and shoot them. The fight scenes are utterly ridiculous.
How can anyone give a 10 to this disaster as if it was the best movie ever made? I can only imagine that they paid to get fake critics.
Everything look cheap like those last Bruce Willis movies.
I gave 3 stars because it's not about girl power...
After this pointless and tedious scene, we finally see our "hero": a guy who looks like one of those drunken homeless punks you find in train stations. He has the charisma of a dead fish and the acting talent of Selena Gomez.
The professional soldiers keep screaming what they intend to do so their enemy can predict their actions and shoot them. The fight scenes are utterly ridiculous.
How can anyone give a 10 to this disaster as if it was the best movie ever made? I can only imagine that they paid to get fake critics.
Everything look cheap like those last Bruce Willis movies.
I gave 3 stars because it's not about girl power...
It was ok but could have been great.
therealjaysmoke14 February 2024
Warning: Spoilers
If not for the B-Rated Production, this movie would have been a solid 10. I love me seeing unknown acts getting an opportunity to shine and in this movie, I saw quite a few unknown faces esp black actors and I have to say they really did great.
The story itself was a solid one, robbery gone wrong and 2 brothers running from the cops and ending up in a cross-fire with a gangster etc. The only let down for me like I said was the quality of the production and the make up and special FX was 50%. The blood was very fake. The gun shots were so unrealistic. But if you can overlook all that, you bound to have a grand time.
The story itself was a solid one, robbery gone wrong and 2 brothers running from the cops and ending up in a cross-fire with a gangster etc. The only let down for me like I said was the quality of the production and the make up and special FX was 50%. The blood was very fake. The gun shots were so unrealistic. But if you can overlook all that, you bound to have a grand time.
Superb heist thriller
ronster10022 July 2023
What a great surprise - i only gave this a chance because Clayne Crawford is in it, terrific edgy actor (the talented one from TV series Lethal Weapon, the wonderful Rectify, and several acclaimed indie movies including The Killing Of Two Lovers and The Integrity Of Joseph Chambers), and was shocked by how good it was. A genuinely tremendous opening set-piece, in which a heist goes wrong, comes pretty close to the wonders of Michael Mann's Heat with an intense and prolonged shootout. The film is beautifully shot, well-acted with muscular and committed direction, tight and straightforward - it may not be Shakespeare, but for action fans it delivers what it promises and more, a gripping, visceral heist movie made with real style and quality. Highly recommended.
Gritty "realistic" heist movie - Loved it. Ignore the low scores, really
jwvandegronden-124 July 2023
Warning: Spoilers
I think it is a solid 8/10 movie, not a B movie at all as I came across in other reviews. At least, lets stay humble, IMHO. It is well paced, it is a tense thriller, well shot, well acted and even though the story line isn't breaking any new grounds, it is compellingly told and I genuinely enjoyed the time spent with this movie and would even watch it again in a few months time! It really is worth your time.
There are some memorable moments in the movie, which underscore the acting chops of the actors involved: the scene of one of the robbers at home with his kid and at handing over to the babysitter (his mother in law I think), the shootout at the bank is very well done, the sounds of the bullets ripping through cars and the 3D sound effects of rapid fire is impactful. The fear of the girlfriend when they are held hostage by the money laundering goon, fear to be tortured with Hydrofluoric Acid, is one of the most convincing fear induced scenes I have seen in a long time.
The ending is.satisfying as well, although not as tightly knit as i would have expected compared to the rest of the film, but nonetheless it was a good ending.
Go watch it, you will not be disappointed.
There are some memorable moments in the movie, which underscore the acting chops of the actors involved: the scene of one of the robbers at home with his kid and at handing over to the babysitter (his mother in law I think), the shootout at the bank is very well done, the sounds of the bullets ripping through cars and the 3D sound effects of rapid fire is impactful. The fear of the girlfriend when they are held hostage by the money laundering goon, fear to be tortured with Hydrofluoric Acid, is one of the most convincing fear induced scenes I have seen in a long time.
The ending is.satisfying as well, although not as tightly knit as i would have expected compared to the rest of the film, but nonetheless it was a good ending.
Go watch it, you will not be disappointed.
LOVED THIS FILM!!!!
joeynicotra2 August 2023
Kaufman's latest masterpiece is a riveting action film that keeps you on the edge of your seat. The precision in the shooting/fighting scenes makes you feel immersed in the action. The cinematography is artful, adding depth to the story and characters. The well-rounded cast delivers stellar performances, with richly developed characters that resonate with the audience. The plot is gripping, delving into profound themes about morality and ethics. The tension and suspense throughout the movie keep you engaged emotionally. This film is a must-watch for cinephiles and action enthusiasts, a true gem in modern cinema that leaves you in awe long after the credits roll. Don't miss this phenomenal cinematic experience!
Refreshing great action movie.
Fred_Derf_25 July 2023
Action movie fanatics may wanna take a look at Kaufman's work, he started in 2005 with a very low budget flick The Prodigy (200 000 bucks), a dark and gloomy story about a sadistic masked killer. A must watch. The mold for all his other movies.
The way he handles the shoutouts is quite specific, a mixture of quick cuts, and immersive shots, gore wounds, and intense sound design, and believe me it works and it's very enjoyable. It gives a unique and aggressive style to the fight scenes and it shows.
He then continued to direct and write action flicks, using his skills learned in the industry to make good stuffs despite having a limited budget. But he brings back all the old faces you wanna see, Lundgren, Cuba, Berenger, Prochnow,Mandylor,Strong, Coates etc... . I recommend all his movies.
The Channel is no exception and it still got the spirit, good pacing, good acting, immersive music, intense shootout scenes and sound design, you can tell they liked the other good heist movies, there are some references and nod to Heat, Reservoir Dogs and Point Break. No lecturing, no politics, just true Cinema.
I'm curious to see his next movie wich will be released in a 3 days : Shrapnel.
The way he handles the shoutouts is quite specific, a mixture of quick cuts, and immersive shots, gore wounds, and intense sound design, and believe me it works and it's very enjoyable. It gives a unique and aggressive style to the fight scenes and it shows.
He then continued to direct and write action flicks, using his skills learned in the industry to make good stuffs despite having a limited budget. But he brings back all the old faces you wanna see, Lundgren, Cuba, Berenger, Prochnow,Mandylor,Strong, Coates etc... . I recommend all his movies.
The Channel is no exception and it still got the spirit, good pacing, good acting, immersive music, intense shootout scenes and sound design, you can tell they liked the other good heist movies, there are some references and nod to Heat, Reservoir Dogs and Point Break. No lecturing, no politics, just true Cinema.
I'm curious to see his next movie wich will be released in a 3 days : Shrapnel.
Action-packed and Riveting: A Review of the Independent Thriller
mrogger-5201821 July 2023
Before you step into this cinematic rollercoaster, be aware that "This is an Independent film," meaning it's a gem without the A-list actors or extravagant budget. However, don't let that deter you, because what this movie lacks in star power, it more than compensates with its adrenaline-fueled storyline.
The heart of the film revolves around a group of ex-military mavericks embarking on a high-stakes bank heist. Already on shaky ground due to an informant, their daring plan is fraught with tension and danger from the get-go.
The plot may be straightforward, but it's the characters' backstories that add depth and substance to the narrative. You'll find yourself invested in their struggles, triumphs, and personal demons, creating an emotional connection that keeps you on the edge of your seat.
The film doesn't skimp on action either; expect a barrage of intense gunfights that'll have you gripping the edge of your popcorn bucket. The filmmakers have nailed the selection of firearms, ensuring each confrontation packs a punch and keeps the adrenaline pumping.
And yes, there are a couple of acid bath scenes thrown in for good measure, just in case your heart rate wasn't high enough already!
One of the standout aspects is the drone cinematography, which truly elevates the movie's visual appeal. From breathtaking aerial shots to unique perspectives, the camera work adds a level of artistry that's rarely seen in mainstream action films.
While I caught this gripping spectacle at the theater, I can confidently say it'll be just as thrilling on the small screen. The story and action hold up, making it a definite contender for a thrilling movie night at home.
In conclusion, if you're in the mood for an action-packed joyride that thrives on its thrilling plot, well-portrayed characters, and stellar drone cinematography, this independent gem is a must-watch. So grab your popcorn, buckle up, and get ready to experience an electrifying ride that might just leave you wanting more. I know I'd gladly watch it again on TV.
The heart of the film revolves around a group of ex-military mavericks embarking on a high-stakes bank heist. Already on shaky ground due to an informant, their daring plan is fraught with tension and danger from the get-go.
The plot may be straightforward, but it's the characters' backstories that add depth and substance to the narrative. You'll find yourself invested in their struggles, triumphs, and personal demons, creating an emotional connection that keeps you on the edge of your seat.
The film doesn't skimp on action either; expect a barrage of intense gunfights that'll have you gripping the edge of your popcorn bucket. The filmmakers have nailed the selection of firearms, ensuring each confrontation packs a punch and keeps the adrenaline pumping.
And yes, there are a couple of acid bath scenes thrown in for good measure, just in case your heart rate wasn't high enough already!
One of the standout aspects is the drone cinematography, which truly elevates the movie's visual appeal. From breathtaking aerial shots to unique perspectives, the camera work adds a level of artistry that's rarely seen in mainstream action films.
While I caught this gripping spectacle at the theater, I can confidently say it'll be just as thrilling on the small screen. The story and action hold up, making it a definite contender for a thrilling movie night at home.
In conclusion, if you're in the mood for an action-packed joyride that thrives on its thrilling plot, well-portrayed characters, and stellar drone cinematography, this independent gem is a must-watch. So grab your popcorn, buckle up, and get ready to experience an electrifying ride that might just leave you wanting more. I know I'd gladly watch it again on TV.
KAUFMAN's Best movie so far!
toddj1318 July 2023
I've been a huge fan of William Kaufman since I watched his first movie The Prodigy. My two favorite films of his include Daylight's End and Sinners and Saints but I have to say The Channel beats both of those. This movie is action packed from start to finish and never let's off the gas. The two lead actors played by Clayne Crawford and Max Martini have great on screen chemistry and the rest of the supporting cast give solid performances throughout the film. The movie is also beautifully shot by the director of photography Mark Rutledge. I highly recommend The Channel and can't wait to see what the action maestro Kaufman delivers next.
Realistically shot executed.
crazyhooligan17 July 2023
William Kaufman is one of the best filmmakers in the business. This movie has it all. A good story, solid cinematography from Ruthledge per usual and Scarberry. Car action, running through houses action, gun action etc etc. Every actor was solid even the one liners. The actors and the editing are top notch. Clayne and Max a solid leads and Nicoye Banks shines so smoothly. Jeren Mitchell is another stand out! One of the best films I've seen in years. I even learned that New Orleans has a section where some sound like they're from Boston. Very interesting and entertaining film! Don't miss it!...
Action packed!
bradb5515 July 2023
This has to be one of the best Bank Robbery movies made in the 2000s. The crew of The Channel really put their hearts and souls into this production. Seeing Cayne and Max run side by side was a blast. Todd Jenkins pulling in there as Clarence and so many familiar faces from Kaufman's other amazing films. The use of the city of New Orleans, made The Channel fell like home. If you are itching for an action packed, banger right out of the gate, look no further than this film. It is one hell of a ride, that keeps your attention from the start. Great job you all!! 10/10 stars. Must see summer movie.
Well thought out, High Octane Action Flick
youresocoolshow16 July 2023
I've been a massive fan of Writer/Director William Kaufman. With films like The Brave, Daylight's End and Sinners & Saints, Will handles the stories in each of these films beautifully while having some incredible shoot out sequences. The Channel is easily his best film to date. This Film showcases what Kaufman is able to do with limited resources but at a high level. The story is phenomenal along with the performances and the action is second to none. If you are a action junkie like me, The Channel will satisfy your action cravings. The opening scene sets the tone of what to expect. Enjoy it 🤘
Captivating, and action packed.
jlwritercom22 August 2023
Warning: Spoilers
The Channel's opening scene is intense.
A man, Jamie, wakes from a dream of him remembering gunfire from his point of view. It contrasts suddenly when he does wake with the image of him over the crib of his child.
He says goodbye to his child, leaves the house, and gets into a van with a group of men. They are armed, and he, too, arms himself. They all put on masks and arrive at their stop, which is a bank. They hop out of the van and go ahead with their armed robbery.
After successfully getting the money, it all begins to go wrong as they step outside, where they are met with gunfire from law enforcement.
Jamie's girlfriend Ava, who works at that bank, is aware of the plan. She is questioned afterward about the robbery but doesn't give anything away.
Jamie and his brother Mic manage to steal a car for an escape, dragging along a friend who was injured in the robbery.
The FBI has leads as they search for the remaining bank robbers.
The robbers strike a deal to clean the money in exchange for a hefty fee. The exchange takes place in an alley, where they are not happy with the deal they made. Mic and Jamie take out the guys they made a deal with, which pisses off the money washers boss.
Edwin Smalls (Gary Cairns) appears seated in an interrogation room. He is accused of supplying intel for the robbery, claiming he didn't know they would kill anyone. He is smoking a cigarette, while the agents are standing over him.
He is caught playing dumb and lying. Edwin quickly starts to make up for it by providing real details, identifying several of the men for the FBI.
Their identities are leaked to the news. Meanwhile, the two men who don't quite get along with each other are grabbed by guys sent by the guy in charge of money laundering, along with Jamie's girlfriend. They are held and tortured but manage an escape.
While on the run, Jamie and his girlfriend Ava are stopped by police. Jamie's brother and partner in crime, Mic, shows up buying them enough time to run.
Mic is chased through a neighborhood, bleeding from being shot. Capturing one of the agents momentarily gets him shot by another agent when they catch up to him.
His dying words and evidence found where they were tortured lead the agents to believe Jamie is indeed dead.
Jamie and Ava manage an escape on a trolley car, and they separate as Jamie, with a bag of money, is seen watching Ava ride off.
The agents head to Ava's house to check in with her and close the investigation. We then see that she has a baby girl. It is the same baby from the beginning of the movie.
Compassion is shown towards Ava and her daughter, and any charges against her are not pursued.
An action-packed movie that is well written, acted, and directed. The viewer is captivated and feels sympathy for Mic, but especially for Jamie, Ava, and their child.
A man, Jamie, wakes from a dream of him remembering gunfire from his point of view. It contrasts suddenly when he does wake with the image of him over the crib of his child.
He says goodbye to his child, leaves the house, and gets into a van with a group of men. They are armed, and he, too, arms himself. They all put on masks and arrive at their stop, which is a bank. They hop out of the van and go ahead with their armed robbery.
After successfully getting the money, it all begins to go wrong as they step outside, where they are met with gunfire from law enforcement.
Jamie's girlfriend Ava, who works at that bank, is aware of the plan. She is questioned afterward about the robbery but doesn't give anything away.
Jamie and his brother Mic manage to steal a car for an escape, dragging along a friend who was injured in the robbery.
The FBI has leads as they search for the remaining bank robbers.
The robbers strike a deal to clean the money in exchange for a hefty fee. The exchange takes place in an alley, where they are not happy with the deal they made. Mic and Jamie take out the guys they made a deal with, which pisses off the money washers boss.
Edwin Smalls (Gary Cairns) appears seated in an interrogation room. He is accused of supplying intel for the robbery, claiming he didn't know they would kill anyone. He is smoking a cigarette, while the agents are standing over him.
He is caught playing dumb and lying. Edwin quickly starts to make up for it by providing real details, identifying several of the men for the FBI.
Their identities are leaked to the news. Meanwhile, the two men who don't quite get along with each other are grabbed by guys sent by the guy in charge of money laundering, along with Jamie's girlfriend. They are held and tortured but manage an escape.
While on the run, Jamie and his girlfriend Ava are stopped by police. Jamie's brother and partner in crime, Mic, shows up buying them enough time to run.
Mic is chased through a neighborhood, bleeding from being shot. Capturing one of the agents momentarily gets him shot by another agent when they catch up to him.
His dying words and evidence found where they were tortured lead the agents to believe Jamie is indeed dead.
Jamie and Ava manage an escape on a trolley car, and they separate as Jamie, with a bag of money, is seen watching Ava ride off.
The agents head to Ava's house to check in with her and close the investigation. We then see that she has a baby girl. It is the same baby from the beginning of the movie.
Compassion is shown towards Ava and her daughter, and any charges against her are not pursued.
An action-packed movie that is well written, acted, and directed. The viewer is captivated and feels sympathy for Mic, but especially for Jamie, Ava, and their child.
Heavy action from beginning to end!
bartdavis-9346919 July 2023
This is an absolutely perfect popcorn flick, with action all the way from the start to the end. If you enjoy heist movies like HEAT, The Town, Den of Thieves, or Wrath of Man, you'll be in for a wonderful treat! The Channel is set in New Orleans, and having lived there for a while, I really appreciated the beautiful cinematography. Superb acting performances by everyone, and the plot had me engaged from the get-go. Max Martini never fails to absolutely crush his role! Some really fantastic gun play throughout, so if that's your thing like it is mine, get ready for one heck of a ride! 10/10 and can't wait for a UHD physical release!
Impressive!
tommcelhenny17 July 2023
I saw this movie on the big screen the weekend it came out, and it definitely surpassed all of my expectations. Everything about this movie was very good. The actors, the action, and the visual and sound effects were all really good. However, the gun-fight scenes impressed me the most. The actors looked like they could have been former special forces operators or high level law enforcement officers, and the lead actors fit their roles perfectly. In fact, they made you think they could have been former Marine Raiders. Overall, I would say that this is a very good movie, and everyone involved in this film did a great job. Well done! Definitely worth seeing.
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