Trees Lounge (1996)

Director: Steve Buscemi

A dear, dear friend of mine recently told me that Trees Lounge is a film about nothing. While this may seem like a negative connotation, modern science is now teaching us that even in the vacuum of space, there is substance. This certainly applies here to Steve Buscemis‘ writing and directorial debut. With a wonderful mixed cast of actors here, any fans of Scorsese, or indeed the legendary creator of The Sopranos David Chase will be happy to see these old faces mix together to create an ode to Long Island day drinkers.

The story is focused around Tommy (Buscemi), recently fired from his job at a garage and spurned by his ex-girlfriend Theresa, who is now engaged to his old boss and friend. Tommy is, in a sense, the definition of ‘loser’. Certainly, he may be charming, but has no qualms about causing destruction and pain, and he is often uncomprehending when forgiveness is not given. He lives above the ‘Trees Lounge’ and inside it, constantly. He spends his evenings chasing Bud with Beam, and performing bar tricks to the big haired ladies of Long Island who may venture out that evening. Tommy constantly looks for work as a mechanic, although he cannot even fix his own banger of a car, something which is hilariously pointed out to him. His luck begins to change when he acquires his uncles ice cream van and he spends his days around the suburbs with his soon to be romantic interest, 17 year old Debbie (a wonderful performance by it-girl Chloe Sevigny) .

I could go into more detail above about the plot, but there is absolutely no need. Trees Lounge is simply a character study, a comedic yet poignant one. A realistic snapshot of American life where alcohol is everyone’s mistress. Within the ‘Trees Lounge’ we are shown a variety of sad, lonely people. All taking comfort in amber liquids and quick snorts of cocaine on occasion. A successful business man in an unhappy marriage, and old couple whose memories are pastel rather than primary, a weary bar maid who looks after her customers like they are naughty children.

Then there is ‘Bill’ (Bronson Dudley) a permanent fixture in the bar, even more so than Tommy. Hardly able to walk or talk with his addiction, he is like a shark that does not cease swimming. Bill will not cease drinking until it kills him. When Bills liver finally gives up, there is one more seat at the bar. Our favorite barfly will soon take his place. The tragedy of this film is in the last scene, disguised as the strangest positive, when Tommy reaches for the beer instead of the bourbon. This is the Trees Lounge. Pull up a pew, share your strife and hand over your dollars for happy hour. You are well loved in this local bar.

by Claire Fagan