The Vault: "Blow" [Blu-Ray]

This is one of my favorite movies. Despite the mixed reviews that were written after its debut in 2001, I stand behind my man. Johnny Depp's portrayal of George Jung is one of his best performances. He adds depth and compassion to the notorious drug dealer, not to mention a lovable aloofness and witty sense of humor.

As he grows up and sees his father (Ray Liotta) struggle with finances, he makes a promise to himself that he will never be poor. George starts off small, selling weed in Manhattan Beach, California. There he meets Barbara (Franka Potente), his first true love and partner in crime. Sadly, she dies of cancer shortly after George is caught with 667 pounds of marijuana. He skips bail to take care of her, and winds up a wanted fugitive.

Once he's caught, George is thrown in prison where he meets Diego (Jordi Molla). Diego has ties with the Colombian cocaine trade, and convinces George to start working for Pablo Escobar's gang. George is not only introduced to Pablo, but also to Mirtha (Penelope Cruz), a Colombian vixen who turns out to be just a teeny bit crazy.

Like any other major drug dealer, George has trouble staying out of the game. The money is just too good to turn down. And he's good at what he does. Cops don't stop being cops, right?

Johnny Depp is a character actor, and almost every character he plays is unforgettable. George's rags-to-riches story is inspiring, despite its illegal nature. He truly lives the life he promised himself he would, which most people don't ever have the balls to do.

Great film, beautifully shot, well-cast, and fun to watch.