Poolhall Junkies (2002)

Poolhall Junkies (2002) is a gritty, character-driven drama with touches of comedy and sports-film thrills. It follows Johnny (Mars Callahan), a naturally gifted pool player who walked away from the hustle to try for a normal life, only to be pulled back when his younger brother Danny (Michael Rosenbaum) falls under the influence of Johnny’s vindictive former mentor Joe (Chazz Palminteri). When Joe grooms a new protégé, Brad (Rick Schroder), and sets a high-stakes game in motion, Johnny must decide whether to risk everything — including his freedom and his brother’s safety — for one last shot at redemption. Watching the film, you’ll get immersed in smoky pool halls, fast-talking hustlers and tense, meticulously staged matches. The movie balances slick, suspenseful pool sequences (with close-ups and sharp edits that make each shot feel decisive) with quieter character moments that explore loyalty, regret and the cost of pride. Performances anchor the story: Callahan’s conflicted antihero, Palminteri’s calculating boss, and strong supporting turns give emotional weight to the climactic “race to nine” showdown. Expect a mix of rivalry-driven tension, occasional dark humor, and the adrenaline of gambling and competition. The payoff is both a physical contest and an emotional reckoning — a finale that resolves the sporting stakes while confronting the personal consequences of Johnny’s choices.

Actors: Mars Callahan, Chazz Palminteri, Michael Rosenbaum

Director: Mars Callahan

Runtime: 99 min

Genres: Comedy, Drama, Sport

5.9 /10 36 /100 6.8 /10 5.4 /10