englishm-3 I just watched this movie on Showtime. It was entitled D.O.A. (Dead). I had no idea what to expect, so I watched it with an open mind. The first thing that caught my attention was the voice of the lead character, Paris Campbell. It was resonant, clear and articulate. Even though I had never seen him act in anything else, I could tell immediately that this was a seasoned actor, and that drew me in initially. I am not a fan of excessive violence, but despite that, I was well entertained by the level of acting done by the two lead characters. The whole movie is told through flashbacks, and even flashbacks within flashbacks. I am not a gangster or a criminal, but I could find myself identifying with both of the lead characters, and actually cared what was happening to them as the story unfolded. I loved the camaraderie they displayed, and at no time did I feel like they were just "acting". Everything seemed so real, albeit gory at times. I couldn't step away from the screen until the movie was over, and that is a rarity for me. I was grossed out, but thoroughly entertained. It kept me on the edge of my seat, and just about the time I thought I knew what was going on, they would throw in another twist. 10 out of 10!

bexandbarn I'm writing this because as it stands it has been given a rating of 4.9 after less than 200 votes. This is absolutely unfair, as this is definitely above average, especially as there are no big names in it and the whole film has a very low budget feel to it. Film makers who clearly have a low budget should be applauded for making films of this quality when there is so much dross around which have millions of dollars spent on it.Of course, this won't be for everybody. For a start, it is very, very, very violent. The opening five minutes packs a rather nasty punch but should be enough for the viewer to know whether this film is for them or not. If you are put off by the violence, you will hate this movie. If you say 'wow' then you will not be disappointed by the rest of this movie.The two heavies this story revolves around play their roles superbly and at times, too convincingly. The viewer never knows what actually occurred with different versions of the truth being played out. It culminates in a fairly grizzly finale, but one which is plausible and pleasing (especially for the sick among us).It's funny, but all the reviews on IMDb are positive. So who are these people downgrading it? And for the record - I'm in no way affiliated with this film, as a lot of reviewers are on IMDb. Check out my other reviews to prove it. This is a tour de force of realistic violence with a good story and excellent acting. A must for gangster film buffs who like their violence grittily displayed.

chris_john_lynch Well written small budget flick. No name actors put on a good show. Definitely adult orientated with some great gore and raunchy scenes.What is interesting is how this film tends to blend both the Crime and Slasher genres together. Not that genre is ever completely static, some films fitting into multiple genres, but rather that The Level combines elements of both the Crime and Slasher rather effectively. Aside from the story being about criminals there are some other more interesting connections. The plot is reminiscent of not only Reservoir Dogs but a whole slew of other Crime movies: Layer Cake, The Usual Suspects and even Double Indemnity. The quest for the truth is a compelling device that moves these stories forward. The Level uses this device not only for the plot but also as its introduction of Horror. Most of the gruesome violence is even executed via torture, further suturing 'truth-seeking' and horrific violence. What lends this film to Slasher is the extensive mutilation, gore, raunchiness and torture that almost overwhelms some parts of the narrative. Consider Junior's revival only to be re-killed via decapitation. Low budget Horror movies are often criticized for their weak plot. I mean, for the most part, the plot is just an excuse for the violence; especially in a good Slasher. That is what is interesting about The Level because the Crime genre is the driving force behind the horror.Overall, pretty decent, especially for its budget.

fallguy_jack I was surprised at how enjoyable this movie was. Clearly not a big budget film, it ended up being quality entertainment.The story keeps you interested and guessing, so that in itself makes for better than a lot of movies of any budget.The acting is actually pretty good, especially considering there are no high priced actors, I think we'll be seeing more from a lot of them with this on their reels.There's definitely some brutal stuff, and some funny stuff.All in all I don't see anyone who is not expecting an Oscar worthy film being disappointed with watching this.