The Box (2003)

Veteran character actor James Russo writes himself up a starring role in The Box (2003). He’s a parolee who’s trying to go straight, although that’s complicated by former cronies trying to stiff him on a $200,000 payday. Life on the outside has its advantages, though--especially Theresa Russell as his alluring waitress love interest. Too bad about her psychotic husband, though. This small film has an impressive cast who really indulge themselves in this steamy L.A. noir--although things aren’t so dark and dank that Meadow Williams can’t brighten up a scene as a healthy young stripper!