This is a street-poetic, slice of lives, artists in downtown, kind of flick.

An interestingly eclectic cast of strong actors drive this stage poem with subject content that meanders around relationships (always imperfect), drugs, and art creation. The latter is almost non-existent despite the quantity of artists in the picture.

Somewhat interesting, somewhat curious, a little slow, mostly drab in mood even to the point of suicide in one instance (one of the characters), the film is scored with poetry reading in the place of music. More of a slice of lives picture, the camera follows several artistic couples in a once ritzy downtown hotel. The building has become a haven for starving painters and writers, both extended stays and transient. Though it seems to be going somewhere, there is no emotional climax, no resolution, and very little profundity. Still, some of the thought towards understanding of one's predicaments, irrational longings, desires etc. is interesting. And to be fair, like much poetry, the film is more concerned with expressing feelings and emotions as important standalones (actual understanding isn't the goal).

As you may know, this film is directed by Ethan Hawke. Nicely shot, well acted, fine direction, well-organized (for what it is), but short on both impact and message.