Halfway through this film, I found myself thinking, "This is like watching a really good play!" (in all the best ways); I researched and realized that yes, the film is based on a theatrical performance called "The Mayor's Limo."
It shows in the performances -- this is a well-acted, well-told drama that takes place one night at the precinct after a homeless man, Banzai, urinates on the Mayor's limo and gets himself locked up for the night. The cops on duty are surly and all- business at first, but as they work to unpack Banzai's backstory, a nuanced tale unfolds - complicated by sudden interest from a nosy reporter and Banzai's unspoken leadership with the local homeless population.
Homelessness and mental illness are treated with a deft touch here, as we begin to uncover Banzai's backstory and figure out who he really is; the human side of police work, when explored sensitively, makes for rich and mineable territory in this genre and A Line in the Sand does not disappoint. A gently used but enjoyably dark sense of humor lend a subtle charm to the story and it's definitely carried by solid performances from some stellar actors.
