New York writer / producer / director Michael Sergio impressively uses shear determination and a shoestring budget to recreate memories of mob violence and heroin addicted souls living in brutal desperation below the shadowed arches of Hellgate Bridge. Filmed entirely on location in Astoria, Queens, this gritty indie production captures the essence of the legendary bridge that spans the turbulent waters where the Long Island Sound meets the Atlantic Ocean. With glittering Manhattan in the background, Hellgate Bridge symbolizes promise and escape to a better life. Yet the elusive dream remains just out of reach. Astoria's mean streets bring death for the weak and survival for the strong. An ensemble cast repeatedly suffers unforeseen consequences of emotionally charged choices as they weave a story of revenge and redemption. Michael Rodrick and Jonathan LaPaglia (Seven Days) pair off in a powerful war between love and control. Dominic Chianese and Vincent Pastore bring energy from their roles in The Sopranos, and Jordan Bayne proves that true strength lies in vulnerability.

--- Linda Chrystal