Gena Rowlands gives one of the best performances, ever, in "GLORIA," directed by her husband, John Cassavetes.  Rowlands plays a rough, tough, foul-mouthed, former mob moll, who rescues a young boy after he witnesses the murder of his family, by the mob.  The boy's father was a mob bookie, and now the mob's after him, not only for being a witness, but because he has the "black book" they need to keep safe.

While "GLORIA" is Cassavetes' most "mainstream" film, Cassavetes still manages to turn Hollywood convention on its head. "GLORIA" never resorts to sentimentality, often going for the jugular instead. As tough as "Gloria" is, her maternal instincts kick into high gear, without her being made to transform into a totally changed character, making the film more compelling and believable.

Cassavetes has crafted a gritty feel to the film from beginning to end, and it's an engaging ride that never lets go of the viewer through its final frame.  The film's only drawback is the child actor, horribly miscast here.  He's never convincing, but Rowland's dynamite performance steers us away from this otherwise glaring problem.  It's really the best performance of her career.  "GLORIA" has lost none of its impact, even after 23 years, and we can't recommend this enough!

COLUMBIA TRISTAR has preserved the film's 1.85:1 aspect ratio, with 16:9 enhancement. Colors are solid though intentionally subdued.  There's also a lot of grain, but this is almost certainly an intentional act by Cassavetes to provide the gritty atmosphere he wanted. Contrast is excellent, with deep blacks and grays. Fleshtones appear natural.

COLUMBIA TRISTAR has preserved the film's original monaural track. The fidelity is quite good, especially in terms of its presentation of the film's score and unusual theme song.. Dialogue is always intelligible and free from distortion.

Theatrical trailers are included.