Alpha Dog
Director: Nick Cassavetes
Actors: Emile Hirsch, Justin Timberlake, Anton Yelchin
PlotIn Southern California, Johnny Truelove is a young drug dealer living a life of parties, drugs, and easy money. Surrounded by his crew of loyal friends, he seems to have everything under control. However, a feud with another drug dealer, Jake Mazursky, takes a dangerous turn. The conflict escalates when Johnny and his gang impulsively kidnap Jake's younger brother, Zack, intending it as a move to leverage Jake into settling his debt. Unaware of the severity of their actions, the group sees the kidnapping more as a prank, keeping Zack around as part of their entourage rather than as a hostage. Despite the criminal nature of their act, Zack finds himself enjoying the reckless lifestyle, unaware of the grim realities of his situation.
As time passes, the initial fun and excitement fade, and the gravity of the kidnapping takes hold. The dynamics within the group begin to shift as they grapple with the consequences of their actions. Tensions rise as external pressures and the realization of the seriousness of their crime set in. Meanwhile, Zack remains blissfully ignorant of his precarious position, forming bonds with his captors, specifically with one member who shows him kindness. This complexity deepens the moral quandary, leading to a point of no return for everyone involved. The initial camaraderie and carelessness transform into a desperate struggle to navigate the unforeseen fallout of their impetuous decision.
Writers: Nick Cassavetes
Release Date: 12 Jan 2007
Runtime: 122 min
Rating: R
Country: Germany, United States
Language: English
Home Video Reviews
Alpha Dog offers a vivid yet shallow portrait of troubled youth, with Mill Creek's Blu-ray providing decent audio-visuals but little reason to repurchase.
Read our review of Alpha Dog Blu-ray to find out more
Alpha Dog evokes anger and sadness, feeling pointless despite high-quality Blu-ray release by Icon.
Read our review of Alpha Dog Blu-ray to find out more