Watch Pinch

Pinch is an independent drama-thriller from 2016 that explores the murky world of illegal street racing. The film is directed by Nathan Brown and stars Tony Wayne as the central character, Luke, Jake Lloyd Bacon as his rival, Brian, and Julie Jeanne Tyler as Luke's love interest, Samantha. The story focuses on Luke, a single father, and mechanic living in rural California. A passionate racer, he is drawn into the world of illegal street racing, where his talent and reputation quickly earn him a place amongst the top racers in the area. However, his involvement in this dangerous subculture also puts him at odds with Brian, a ruthless racer who will stop at nothing to remain in the top spot.

As Luke becomes more and more involved in the street racing scene, he begins to understand the risks involved in this dangerous world. He finds himself torn between his love of racing and his responsibility as a father. His relationship with Samantha, who doesn't approve of his reckless lifestyle, also adds an emotional layer to the film.

The film's strengths lies in the way it explores the intense and dangerous world of illegal street racing. The races are pulse-pounding and high-stakes affairs, with a real sense of danger that is palpable throughout the film. The cinematography is also impressive, capturing the thrill of the races in a way that is both exciting and visceral.

The performances are also strong, particularly Tony Wayne as Luke. He brings a real sense of vulnerability to the role, showcasing his character's struggles to balance his passion with his responsibilities. Jake Lloyd Bacon is also excellent as Brian, the film's antagonist. He embodies the ruthless and competitive spirit of the sport, while also revealing the underlying insecurities that drive him.

The relationship between Luke and Samantha is another interesting aspect of the film. While it does not necessarily break new ground in terms of cinematic romance, it offers a welcome counterbalance to the film's adrenaline-fueled racing sequences. Tyler's performance is understated but effective, providing a grounded and relatable perspective on Luke's world.

Where the film falls short, however, is in the well-worn nature of its narrative. While the themes explored in Pinch are certainly compelling, the film follows a fairly predictable arc that doesn't offer many surprises. The characters are also somewhat stereotypical, with Luke as the sympathetic underdog and Brian as the arrogant villain.

Overall, Pinch is an entertaining and well-made indie movie that offers a thrill-ride through the world of illegal street racing. While it does not necessarily offer anything revolutionary in terms of narrative or characterization, it is a well-executed film that showcases the dangers and excitement of an often-overlooked subculture. Those looking for a high-octane drama will find much to enjoy in this film.

Pinch is a 2020 comedy with a runtime of 1 hour and 31 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.1.