It's hard out here for a 'Snake'

Writer/director Craig Brewer gave us 2005's feel-good pimp drama "Hustle & Flow," but his follow-up barely left a mark on critics or audiences.

That doesn't mean you shouldn't give it a try.

"Black Snake Moan," now out on DVD, follows a blues singer (Samuel L. Jackson, pictured with co-star Christina Ricci) saving the soul of a victimized woman (Ricci) by chaining her to his radiator.

If I've lost you, rent something else this weekend. But if you're intrigued, or at least not scared off by the film's rampant nudity and crude behavior, give it a tumble (as Dennis Miller would say). Brewer's a fascinating fellow. I interviewed him earlier this year for "Moan" and thoroughly enjoyed our chat. He wants to make movies in the same Southern Gothic style as Tennessee Williams. Judge for yourself how close he got with "Moan."