The Hold Up (1972) was Ferrara's second short film. The actual short lasts around twelve minutes. Seeing this short, you can tell that Mr. Ferrara had the making of a great director. But with a tiny budget and a cast of friends and neighbors, the final product looks like the work of a young film student. The only surviving copy of this film exists on a shoddy videotape transfer. To enjoy this short you have to watch it on DVD with the director's commentary. Trust me, you'll enjoy it a whole lot more!
An interesting note, the director looped his own voice over the actor who's in the starring role. The short was funded by the school he was attending. Nicholas St. John and Abel Ferrara co-wrote the screenplay. This would be the second collaboration between these life long friends.
Recommended for historical value.
