A New York Times Review of "Paid in Full" Hello my readers, I know you must have been surprised when you saw this review in the list of our website, film.nytimes.com. But just six and a half years ago a film was released that did not generate exceptional box office receipts, having been released domestically and grossing only $3,090,862. I assume those of you who saw the film in 2002 have probably forgotten about it by now, and I didn't work for the New York Times, so I'd like to revisit this film. It is an interpretation of the true story of three young men in Harlem, New York, in the 1980s, and their rise and fall in the drug dealing business. The actor who plays Mitch in the film (which plays the true story of Alberto Martinez) has had some recent success in the world of television. Mekhi Phifer became one of the main characters of a hit TV show on FOX called "Lie to Me", which had a reception of 12.37 million viewers with its pilot episode and is doing well, its third season will air in fall 2010. Mr. Phifer is an FBI agent assigned to the organization of the main character, Cal Lightman, and assists them by providing armed protection and offering the real-world experiences of an FBI agent. This year he was also nominated for an Image Award for “Best Supporting Actor in a Drama Series” for that TV series. “Paid in Full” was the mainstream film debut of commercial director Charles Stone III, who had directed and starred in the wildly popular Budweiser commercial series “Whassuupp.” “Paid in Full” was the first of two films released in 2002 directed by Mr. Stone, the first of which was the musical/comedy/drama film “Drumline.” This film is certainly not a commercial of any kind... and remains true to the legacy of the 80's era. "Paid in Full" is rated R (under 17 years requires accompaniment by parent or adult guardian). Contains vulgar language and includes graphic scenes of violence and strong sexual content. Parents be advised.PAID IN FULLOpens in theaters October 25, 2002Directed by Charles Stone III; Based on the true story of Azie Faison Jr., Alberto Martinez and Richard Porter.; director of photography, Paul Sarossy; edited by Patricia Bowers and Bill Pankow; production designer Maher Ahmad; music by Frank Fitzpatrick and Vernon Reid; produced by Jesse Berdinka, Damon Dash and Jay-Z; distributed by Dimension Films. Running time: 1 hour and 37 minutes WITH: Wood Harris (Ace), Mekhi Phifer (Mitch), Kevin Carroll (Calvin), Esai Morales (Lulu), Chi McBride (Pip), Cam'ron (Rico), Remo Greene (Sonny ) and Cynthia Martells (Dora).