The Yards

The Yards is a 2000 neo-noir crime drama film directed by James Gray, marking his feature film debut. The movie takes place in the late 1950s and is set against the backdrop of the corrupt rail yards of Queens, New York. At its core, The Yards is a film about family, relationships, loyalty, and the complexities of human nature. The story begins with Leo Handler (Mark Wahlberg), a young man who has just been released from prison after serving a two-year sentence. Returning to his hometown, Leo is welcomed back with mixed emotions by his aunt, Kitty (Joanne Whalley), who has a new husband, Frank Olchin (James Caan). Frank is a powerful contractor who has established himself as one of the big players in the lucrative world of subway car repair and rebuilding. Leo's arrival poses a threat to Frank's dominance, as Kitty has always been particularly close to him, and Frank's influence over her can be seen as precarious. Frank's business dealings are not above board, and he has a tendency to exploit those around him in order to achieve his objectives. His firm is engaged in a bitter dispute with a minority-owned company, the Soldero Brothers, who are also vying for the lucrative subway contracts. Despite his initial reservations, Leo gets drawn into the world of his family's business, where he becomes embroiled in a complex web of corruption and deceit. As he becomes more deeply entrenched in this world, Leo finds himself developing romantic feelings for Erica Sandler (Charlize Theron), who is the girlfriend of Joe Soldero (Elonzo Jervis), a member of the minority-owned firm. As Leo navigates the treacherous landscape of the rail yards, he is forced to confront the darker aspects of human nature and the devastating consequences of his own actions. His complicated relationship with his aunt and uncle serves as a catalyst for much of the film's tension, highlighting the intricate dynamics at play within the handler family. Meanwhile, Frank is determined to maintain his power and control over the rail yards, no matter the cost. His actions become increasingly ruthless as the stakes grow higher, setting in motion a chain of events that will change the lives of those around him forever. Throughout the film, James Gray presents a thought-provoking portrait of a bygone era, where the corrupt practices of the early 20th century subway industry were allowed to flourish. By exploring the intricate social dynamics at play, Gray sheds light on the consequences of human nature when driven by greed and ambition. With its striking cinematography, poignant performances, and thought-provoking themes, The Yards emerges as a nuanced, gripping drama that explores the complexities of human relationships and the devastating consequences of corruption and deceit. While it never quite rises to the level of a truly great film, The Yards offers a compelling portrait of a troubled era, showcasing a talented young director and cast in the process. Ultimately, The Yards is a film that raises difficult questions about the consequences of our actions and the nature of human relationships. As we watch Leo navigate the treacherous waters of the rail yards, we are reminded that the choices we make have the power to shape not just our own lives, but the lives of those around us. As the story unfolds, it becomes clear that everyone in The Yards is trapped in a web of corruption and deceit. Each character's fate is inextricably linked to the others, and their personal struggles serve as a reflection of the broader societal problems that are on display. The Yards presents a stark and disturbing picture of a world in which personal ambition and greed have become all-consuming, leaving in their wake a trail of broken relationships, shattered lives, and a deep sense of disillusionment.