The main actor was magnetic. Imagine a cool, stylish, calm, Italian, New York gangster, who is neither a gangster, nor Italian, but seems mildly like both. I've never heard of this guy, but he either pulled it off really well, or he is like that in real life. In the film he is an Hispanic business owner who must walk the tightrope of ethics in order to compete, but also married a gangster's daughter. But he himself is a decent man who is passionate about limiting unethical or immoral behavior. In that sense a rather refreshing character for a modern movie. But then it doesn't take place in the modern era. It's in the early 80's. Through use of subtle techniques, not bombardment, we do get a feeling for the time period. Something about the quality of the film stock and the cars, hairstyles, and clothes helps. But there is no obnoxious soundtrack. The man deals in heating oil, but there isn't an explanation for what that means. Those of us from other parts of the country or other eras don't necessarily understand who uses this, and for what specifically Meanwhile it would have been nice to hear a bit more about his background, how he acquired this business, how he developed his philosophy, and why he married this woman. Presumably because she is tougher than him. But did her dad set him up with the business? Well the ethics of the city oil business is not a sexy subject, but the actor's film noir mannerisms, including his tempered desperation give it an edge that keeps you tuned in.