This surprisingly effective take on the seedy jazz underworld of New Orleans is as unassuming as the clever double meaning of the title ("riff" as in a melody, as well as a torn relationship). Impressive debuts by director/writer Mark W. Allen; Cameron Smith as the shaven-headed, steely eyed music man haunted by a personal tragedy; and Wesley Snipes look-alike Mister Jones are supported by vets Nia Peeples and Antonio Fargas(the latter in a custom-tailored role as an aging, bitter artist). The wall-to-wall jazz is tasteful and adds to the atmosphere. Fans of Mo' Better Blues, 'Round Midnight, and the like will find this to their liking until the next big-budget production about a jazz musician comes along. ~ Buzz McClain, All Movie Guide