New Movies: Best of Trades (2025) by Andrew Madonio: A Neo-Noir Detective Duo in Houston

Core Summary: Mismatched PIs Hunt a Missing Heirloom Best of Trades (2025), directed and written by Andrew Madonio, is a crime drama set against the backdrop of Houston, Texas, a city affectionately dubbed the "New York of the South." The film centers on two down-on-their-luck private investigators, Miles and Jakoby, who are polar opposites. Miles is a by-the-book, straight-laced PI, while Jakoby is a reckless ex-con with unconventional methods. They are reluctantly forced to team up to find a missing heirloom for a wealthy client, Walter Doyle, the heir apparent to an oil fortune. As they criss-cross Houston, their will-they-won't-they dynamic drives the humor, all while they stumble into a criminal underbelly more dangerous than their client could have imagined, hoping to do something right for once. The film is described as a "spaghetti Western" reimagined in color, infused with a Guy Ritchie-esque style of crime caper.

Summary Short: Odd Couple PIs Navigate Houston's Underbelly for a Missing Watch Two mismatched private investigators, a straight-laced rule-follower and a reckless ex-con, begrudgingly team up in Houston to recover a valuable missing watch for a wealthy heir, stumbling into unexpected danger and dark humor.

Link IMDB: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt14810696/

About movie: https://www.row7films.com/bestoftrades

Link to watch: https://www.amazon.com/Best-Trades-Andrew-Madonio/dp/B0FCMZWK72 (US)

Detailed Summary: A City of Characters and a Case of a Missing Watch

• Film Overview: Best of Trades (2025) is an American crime drama, completed in 2025, with a runtime of 108 minutes. It is directed and written by Andrew Madonio and produced by Jonathan D. Karpicke.

• The Setting: Houston, "New York of the South": The film establishes a distinct atmosphere by setting its narrative in Houston, Texas, portraying it as a bustling "big city, full of characters" where one is "never sure if you'll catch a break." This backdrop hints at both opportunity and danger.

• The Unlikely Duo: Miles & Jakoby:

  • Miles (played by JD Karpicke): Described as being "born from the essence of Dick Tracy, Sam Spade, Philip Marlowe," Miles is the archetypal straight-laced, by-the-book private investigator. He values process and has maintained a consistent, if meager, career.

  • Jakoby (played by Brandon Morgan): A stark contrast to Miles, Jakoby is a reckless ex-con. His understanding of criminals comes from personal experience ("he is one"), and he possesses an unconventional, "seasoned approach" to the PI business.

• The Case: A Missing Heirloom: The duo is hired by Walter Doyle (John Enick), the "heir apparent to an oil fortune," to find a missing heirloom – specifically, a watch. This seemingly simple missing item sets off the intricate plot.

• Guy Ritchie-esque Narrative: The film is likened to a Guy Ritchie movie, suggesting a fast-paced narrative, witty dialogue, interweaving plotlines, and a blend of action and dark comedy. The "will-they-won't-they" dynamic between Miles and Jakoby adds to the comedic elements.

• Descent into the Criminal Underbelly: As Miles and Jakoby "criss-cross Houston," their investigation leads them unexpectedly into a dangerous criminal underworld. This underworld is so hidden that even their wealthy client, Walter Doyle, is unaware of its depths.

• Motivation: Beyond the paycheck, the PIs seek "the satisfaction of having done something right, for once," implying a desire for personal redemption or validation amidst their down-and-out circumstances.

• Spaghetti Western Influence: The description as a "spaghetti Western, imagine it in color" suggests stylistic choices that might include gritty realism, morally ambiguous characters, heightened tension, and a focus on rugged individualism within an urban landscape.

Plot Summary: From Missing Watch to Urban Underworld Intrigue

• The Call to the Untraditional Detectives: In the bustling, unpredictable city of Houston, two private investigators, the meticulous Miles and the street-smart, ex-con Jakoby, are struggling. They are hired by Walter Doyle, a privileged heir to an oil fortune, to recover a seemingly insignificant but sentimentally valuable missing watch.

• Opposites Attract (and Clash): Their professional and personal differences immediately surface, creating a dynamic fueled by witty banter and reluctant cooperation. Miles's adherence to procedure is constantly challenged by Jakoby's unorthodox, often dangerous, shortcuts.

• A Deeper Conspiracy: What begins as a straightforward retrieval mission quickly spirals into a complex web of deceit and danger. As they navigate Houston's diverse locales, from its affluent heights to its grittier corners, the duo uncovers a hidden criminal underbelly connected to the missing heirloom.

• Escalating Stakes: The stakes rise dramatically as they confront menacing figures like Igaal (Ninaad Vaidya), a mysterious finder, and the dangerous Mateo (Lucas Hale), a lurking threat. The case forces them to push their boundaries and rely on each other's unexpected strengths.

• The Femme Fatale: The enigmatic Beatrice (Caroline Helander) adds another layer of intrigue as a "femme fatale," further complicating their investigation and personal dynamics.

• Redemption and Resolution: The film follows their perilous journey as they aim to solve the case, not just for the money, but for the elusive satisfaction of achieving a moral victory in a world that rarely offers easy wins.

Director's Vision: Neo-Noir with a Comedic, Gritty Twist Andrew Madonio's directorial vision for Best of Trades is to craft a modern, gritty crime drama with a distinctive blend of neo-noir aesthetics, dark humor, and a buddy-cop dynamic, all set against the unique backdrop of Houston.

• "Guy Ritchie's Book": Madonio's approach clearly draws inspiration from Guy Ritchie, suggesting a non-linear narrative, sharp dialogue, stylized violence, and a cast of eccentric characters, creating a heightened sense of theatricality within the crime genre.

• "Spaghetti Western in Color": This description implies a visual style that might be expansive yet intimate, gritty, and perhaps even morally ambiguous, reminiscent of classic Westerns but adapted to an urban environment. It suggests a focus on the characters' individual quests for justice or survival.

• Buddy Dynamic: The core of the film hinges on the "will-they-won't-they" relationship between Miles and Jakoby. Madonio aims to milk this friction for both comedic effect and dramatic tension, showing how two disparate individuals can complement each other.

• Urban Landscape as Character: Houston is portrayed not just as a setting but as a vibrant character itself, full of unpredictable opportunities and dangers, adding to the film's atmosphere.

• Focus on Performance: With a cast embodying specific archetypes (e.g., the femme fatale, the lurking shark), Madonio likely emphasizes strong, distinct performances to bring these colorful characters to life.

• Action and Humor Blend: The vision balances high-stakes criminal investigation with comedic beats, ensuring the film remains entertaining while exploring darker themes.

Themes: Contrast, Redemption, Trust, and the Underbelly of Success

• Contrasting Personalities and Methods: The central theme explores the friction and eventual synergy between two fundamentally different individuals – the lawful and the lawless – forced to collaborate.

• The Search for Redemption/Meaning: Miles and Jakoby's desire to "have done something right, for once" suggests a thematic undertone of seeking meaning or redemption beyond financial gain.

• Trust and Betrayal: In the world of private investigation and the criminal underworld, trust is a precarious commodity, and the film will likely explore instances of both unexpected loyalty and profound betrayal.

• The Hidden Side of Prosperity: By setting the film in Houston's "oil fortune" world and then descending into its "criminal underbelly," the film implicitly explores the darker, unseen consequences or foundations of wealth and success.

• Justice (or a version of it): The PIs' pursuit of the missing heirloom can be seen as a quest for their own brand of justice, even if it's outside conventional legal frameworks.

• Identity and Self-Perception: The characters, particularly Jakoby, may grapple with their past identities and how they are perceived versus who they strive to be.

Key Success Factors: Engaging Dynamic and Stylistic Flair

• Buddy Cop/PI Dynamic: The contrasting personalities of Miles and Jakoby offer a classic and often highly successful formula for engaging storytelling, mixing comedy and drama.

• Stylistic Direction: Andrew Madonio's intention to infuse Guy Ritchie-esque and spaghetti Western elements promises a visually distinct and energetic film.

• Intriguing Premise: A missing heirloom leading to a deep dive into a city's criminal underworld provides a compelling hook.

• Charismatic Cast: The cast needs to convincingly portray the witty banter and underlying tension between the leads and the colorful supporting characters.

• Houston as a Character: Utilizing the unique atmosphere of Houston can add significant depth and flavor to the film.

Summary Short: Completed Independent Crime Drama Best of Trades (2025) is an American crime drama directed by Andrew Madonio, starring JD Karpicke, Brandon Morgan, and John Enick. The film was completed in 2025 and is being handled for world sales and distribution by Indie Rights. It is listed as available for purchase/rental on Prime Video. As a recent independent release, concrete box office figures, widespread critical reviews, and awards are not yet available.

Production Summary: An Independent Effort from Houston Best of Trades (2025) is an American crime drama with a runtime of 108 minutes. It is directed and written by Andrew Madonio. Jonathan D. Karpicke is credited as a producer, and also as additional editor and as a cast member (Miles). Andrew Madonio is also credited for cinematography and editing. Bill Wandel is the composer, and Vince Rockwell handled additional cinematography. The film was completed in 2025.

Production Companies: Independent Houston Filmmakers The film appears to be an independent production, with Andrew Madonio as director/writer and Jonathan D. Karpicke as producer. The website "Row 7" mentions "Houston-native filmmakers Andrew Madonio and JD Karpicke," suggesting it's a local, independent effort.

Sales Companies: Indie Rights for Global Sales World sales for Best of Trades (2025) are handled by Indie Rights, an independent film distributor.

Distribution Companies: Digital First Indie Rights is responsible for the film's distribution rights across various platforms globally, including theatrical, TV, DVD-video, VOD, and airline. It is currently available on Prime Video for purchase or rental.

Release date on streaming: Available on Prime Video Best of Trades (2025) is currently available for purchase or rental on Prime Video.

Cast: The Duo and Key Supporting Players

• Jonathan D. Karpicke as Miles (the straight-laced PI)

• Brandon Morgan as Jakoby (the reckless ex-con PI)

• John Enick as Walter Doyle (the wealthy client)

• Ninaad Vaidya as Igaal

• Lucas Hale as Mateo

• Caroline Helander as Beatrice (the femme fatale)

Why to Recommend this Movie: A Stylish, Humorous Crime Cap

• Engaging Duo: The dynamic between the by-the-book Miles and the wild card Jakoby promises both humor and compelling character development.

• Stylish Direction: Andrew Madonio's vision, inspired by Guy Ritchie and spaghetti Westerns, suggests a visually distinct and entertaining film.

• Intriguing Mystery: The quest for a missing heirloom leading to a criminal underworld provides a classic yet appealing crime narrative.

• Support Independent Cinema: It's an opportunity to discover a new voice in independent filmmaking.

• Dark Humor: The film promises plenty of punchlines and a witty script.

Why to Watch Movie: If You Enjoy Indie Crime Comedies

• You're a fan of buddy-cop/PI dynamics with strong comedic elements.

• You enjoy crime films with a stylistic edge and a non-traditional narrative.

• You're looking for an independent film with a unique setting (Houston).

• You appreciate dark humor and witty dialogue in your thrillers.

• You're curious to see how the "spaghetti Western in color" concept plays out in a modern urban crime story.

Movie Trend: Neo-Noir Revival and Independent Crime Comedies Best of Trades (2025) aligns with a subtle but persistent "Neo-Noir Revival," updating classic detective tropes and gritty urban landscapes with a contemporary edge. It also fits into the trend of "Independent Crime Comedies," often characterized by quirky characters, dark humor, and intricate plots that deviate from mainstream blockbusters. The focus on a "will-they-won't-they" buddy dynamic is a timeless and successful formula in cinema, suggesting its appeal across various genres. Its VOD distribution model further highlights the growing market for "Direct-to-Digital Independent Features."

Social Trend: Unconventional Partnerships and Finding Purpose The film's core dynamic between Miles and Jakoby reflects a social trend of "Unconventional Partnerships" where individuals with vastly different backgrounds and methods must collaborate to achieve a common goal, often leading to unexpected synergy. Their desire to "do something right, for once" also touches upon the universal human search for "Purpose and Redemption," even in morally ambiguous professions. The portrayal of a hidden criminal underbelly beneath a prosperous city can also resonate with societal interests in "Unmasking Hidden Realities" and the complexities of urban life.

Final Verdict: A Promising Entry in Independent Crime Drama Best of Trades (2025) by Andrew Madonio appears to be a spirited and stylish independent crime drama that leverages a classic buddy-PI dynamic with a modern, dark comedic twist. Its Houston setting and "spaghetti Western in color" aesthetic promise a unique visual and narrative experience. While its wider reception is yet to unfold, it's positioned as an engaging watch for fans of witty dialogue, intricate plots, and the quirky side of the criminal underworld.

Recommendations for Filmmakers: Mastering Genre Blending

• Lean into Character Chemistry: Develop compelling dynamics between leads, as this often drives the film's appeal in buddy-genre films.

• Define Your Aesthetic: Experiment with unique visual and narrative styles (e.g., Guy Ritchie, spaghetti Western) to give your film a distinct identity.

• Utilize Setting as Character: Allow the chosen city or location to actively influence the mood, atmosphere, and plot of the film.

• Balance Humor and Stakes: Master the art of interweaving comedic moments with genuine tension and danger to keep the audience engaged.

• Maximize Independent Distribution: Strategically use VOD and other digital platforms to reach your target audience effectively.

Recommendations for Movie Industry: Supporting Niche and Stylistic Crime Films

• Invest in Distinctive Voices: Support directors who bring a unique artistic vision and are willing to experiment with genre conventions.

• Recognize Regional Talent: Explore filmmaking hubs beyond traditional centers to discover fresh perspectives and untapped stories.

• Promote Character-Driven Crime: Highlight films that focus on the complexities of their characters and their relationships, rather than just action.

• Strategize Digital Campaigns: For films going directly to VOD, develop targeted and creative digital marketing strategies to build awareness.

• Foster Genre Evolution: Encourage filmmakers to blend and evolve existing genres, creating fresh takes on familiar concepts for adventurous audiences.

Final Conclusions: Best of Trades - A Witty Ride Through Houston's Hidden World Best of Trades (2025) promises to be a fun, stylish, and engaging ride into the world of private investigation, infused with dark humor and a distinct visual flair. Andrew Madonio's direction, coupled with the compelling dynamic of his lead characters, positions this independent crime drama as a promising watch. It's a testament to how creative vision can elevate familiar genres and deliver a fresh, entertaining experience.