Once in the Life is a distinctive, darkly comic crime drama originally released in 2000 that delves into the underbelly of urban life. The movie is written, directed, and starred by the Oscar nominee actor Laurence Fishburne, known for his highly acclaimed performance in The Matrix Trilogy. Also starring in the film are notable figures Eamonn Walker and Gregory Hines, giving the film exceptional dynamic.

The story is largely based on Fishburne’s critically esteemed play “Riff Raff”, thus displaying Fishburne's skilled craftsmanship in writing and imaginative storytelling. He brings the same vigor and tension to this screen adaptation, creating a complex plot with mesmerizing, flawed characters and intertwining relationships that will keep you glued to the edge of your seat.

One of the central figures of the story is 20/20 Mike, portrayed by Fishburne. 20/20 Mike is an astute, streetwise hustler entangled in a web of criminal activities. Fishburne delivers an intense and engaging performance, effortlessly introducing us to a man whose moral compass is as fluid as the dangerous circumstances he encounters daily.

Eamonn Walker, best known for his role in HBO's Oz, plays Tony, Mike’s half-brother whose life operates in the same shadowy corners of New York. Walker’s acting range shines through in this challenging role as he enthralls the audience with his raw performance, making the bond and tension between the two brothers palpable.

On the other hand, the late Gregory Hines delivers an excellent performance as an experienced, yet weary cop named Ruffhouse. Ruffhouse is a hunter chasing down the criminals to put an end to their nefarious activities, but his character is far from the stereotype; instead, he is complex, multifaceted, and like the criminals he pursues, seems to be walking a tight line between right and wrong.

The story takes us on a wild, emotionally charged ride into the city's dark underbelly, packed with unpredictable and dangerous criminal undertakings. Rooted in these gritty street affairs are intricate themes of loyalty, brotherhood, and survival, providing the substance and soul to this power-packed crime drama.

But make no mistake, Once in the Life is not just a tale of crime and survival; it's a masterfully woven narrative that presents a compelling picture of the harsh realities faced by those living on the fringe of society, without passing judgment. The film’s atmosphere is further enhanced by its unique style, with nonlinear editing and a jazz-inspired soundtrack that gives it a distinct flavor, creating a symbiosis between the visual story and the auditory experience.

In essence, Once in the Life is a testament of Fishburne’s directorial prowess and multifaceted creativity. His understanding of the genre and profound insight into human nature comes across effectively in the well-layered narrative, gritty style, and deeply written characters. Eamonn Walker and Gregory Hines, with their powerful performances, add more depth to the intricately sketched characters, bringing them to life in a profoundly realistic way.

Laurence Fishburne’s Once in the Life offers more than just your typical crime drama. It is a profound study of character and society at large. With a strong script, passionate performances, and its unique approach to telling a story, it stands as an engaging and absorbing piece of cinema. This film will draw you in with its clever dialogue, keep you hooked with its unpredictable plot twists, and leave you pondering long after the credits roll. It is an under-appreciated gem that transcends conventional storytelling, providing more than mere entertainment as it earnestly explores the depths of human resilience and moral ambiguity.