Watch Side Streets

Side Streets is a crime drama released in 1998 that takes place in the depths of the New York City boroughs. Directed by Tony Gerber, the movie stars Valeria Golino as a woman named Bella, who is still reeling from her ex-husband's departure from her life. Bella is a struggling painter who moved to New York to pursue her passion for art, but now she finds herself working at a local deli just to make ends meet.

One day, Bella's life takes an unexpected turn when she accidentally stumbles into the world of counterfeit money. While delivering a sandwich order, Bella meets a group of three Iranian women who ask her to deliver a package for them in exchange for some quick cash.

Desperate for money, Bella agrees to their request without fully understanding what she's getting herself into. The package turns out to be a wad of counterfeit bills, and Bella is suddenly thrust into a dangerous underworld filled with corrupt cops, hired killers, and ruthless gangsters.

As she tries to navigate this new world and find her way back to safety, Bella meets several people who are also feeling the pressures of life in the city. She meets a young African-American girl named Chantal, played by Rosario Dawson, who is struggling to stay away from drugs and keep her life on track. Bella also meets another immigrant, played by Shabana Azmi, who is trying to keep a vicious landlord from evicting her and her family.

Throughout the course of the movie, these characters' lives intersect in unexpected and often dangerous ways. Together, they must navigate the treacherous side streets of New York, facing off against violent criminals and corrupt law enforcement officials.

The movie is shot in a raw, gritty style that perfectly captures the atmosphere of the city, with its narrow alleyways, shadowy corners, and bustling crowds. But the movie also has a heart, as Bella and her fellow characters struggle to find meaning and purpose in a world that often seems indifferent to their struggles.

Valeria Golino delivers a standout performance as Bella, capturing both her vulnerability and her fierce determination in the face of danger. Dawson and Azmi also turn in solid performances, bringing their own unique perspectives to the story.

Ultimately, Side Streets is a gripping crime drama that offers a fresh take on the classic New York City noir. With its mix of suspense, drama, and powerful performances, it's a movie that will keep you on the edge of your seat from start to finish.

Side Streets is a 1998 comedy with a runtime of 2 hours and 10 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 5.6.