Double the Drama: Robert De Niro’s Riveting Duel with Himself in ‘The Alto Knights’ Mob Movie Review

Martin Scorsese’s film “The Irishman” gave us a deep look at mob life, almost feeling like a goodbye to the gangster genre. It starred Robert De Niro, who has a long history with Scorsese and is known for his powerful presence in films about violence. Now, De Niro is back at it in “The Alto Knights,” directed by Barry Levinson and written by Nicholas Pileggi, famous for “Goodfellas” and “Casino.”

In “The Alto Knights,” De Niro takes on a unique role—he plays both Frank Costello and Vito Genovese, two notorious mobsters. This is a bold move that sparks comparisons to his iconic scene with Al Pacino in “Heat.” However, the dynamic of De Niro facing off against himself doesn’t quite match that legendary moment.

While the film is entertaining, its real allure lies in how it reflects on De Niro’s own career in gangster films. He’s built a reputation that makes him the only actor who can pull off such complex roles. His portrayal of Genovese sometimes feels like an homage to Joe Pesci, as he channels some of Pesci’s intense energy.

“The Alto Knights” doesn’t try to cover the full history of the Genovese crime family. Instead, it zooms in on key moments, like a failed hit on Costello in 1957. The story unfolds in a non-linear way, narrated by an older Costello who shares his life story through a documentary-style interview. This technique, featuring old photos and footage, adds depth and authenticity.

Despite some distracting storytelling choices, the film shines during its action scenes. For example, when Costello defies mob rules during a Senate hearing or cleverly delays his entrance to a meeting to avoid police, the tension is palpable. Yet, the pacing slows in moments filled with backroom talks of betrayal.

Fans of mafia films will find plenty to enjoy in “The Alto Knights.” It features a fantastic array of seasoned actors slipping back into their mobster roles. Cosmo Jarvis, in particular, makes an impression as the less-recognizable Vincent Gigante.

Though this film doesn’t reach the emotional weight of “The Irishman,” it resonates with similar themes of reflecting on a life of crime. It hints at the struggles of immigrants chasing the American dream, a common thread in gangster stories.

As of 2023, there’s an increasing interest in the portrayals of organized crime in film and television. A survey revealed that nearly 70% of viewers find mafia stories intriguing, highlighting the genre’s enduring appeal. With De Niro at the center of “The Alto Knights,” this flick serves as both a nod to the past and a fresh exploration of mob life.

For further insights on De Niro’s contributions to cinema and the evolution of gangster films, check out this article from The Atlantic.

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