'Protection' (2001) – John Flynn.

I tentatively purchased this as the howlingly generic, Stephen Baldwin-slathered artwork and portentous tagline tickled my B-Movie fancy: 'The Greatest Threat To His Future Was His Past. When I got said Pre-Viewed DVD home I happily discovered that 'Protection' was directed by a filmmaker I greatly admire, John Flynn, which, perhaps, suggested that it might be more than a forgettably Greasy-Goombah schlock-fest. Flynn delivers a surprisingly solid B-Gangland thriller, enlivened with a great cast, engaging text, and a splendidly steely performance from, Stephen Baldwin as ice-cool killer, Sal. 'Protection' certainly makes no attempt to reinvent the wheel, and yet the proliferation of mob handed cliches are outweighed by the credible performances, and fine filmmaking by Flynn. By no means essential, but 'Protection' is a must-see for, John Flynn/Stephen Baldwin fans.