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The Alto Knights, is an upcoming crime drama directed by Barry Levinson and features Robert De Niro in dual roles. The film follows a group of complex characters set in a world of crime, power, and loyalty.
Robert De Niro takes on the difficult task of portraying two real life mob bosses, Vito Genovese and Frank Costello. The story revolves around two men at odds with each other making it very much different then how their relationship began. The decision for one actor to take on these dual characters creates interest with De Niro’s expertise as an established and well known actor in the genre.
Vito Genovese and Frank Costello were real-life leaders of the Genovese crime family and their person alities will come out with complexity. These characters come with a lot of background and history that spans decades of power dynamics and violence all within a time of significant historical changes.
The movie explores their life-long relationship with a close look at their friendship before the fall out. It then documents the betrayal that comes when petty jealoUSy pushes them on a collision course. Their power struggle eventually ends in an assassination attempt. Their eventual dissolving friendship and all that that encompasses highlights their shared connection but also highlights the conflict within each characters values.
With such long standing relationships on the line this show will go into key concepts such as duty, power struggles and a line between right and wrong. Their complex relationship demonstrates how power corrupts and challenges trust even amongst those who were close.
Along with Robert De Niro the cast has Debra Messing, Cosmo Jarvis, and Katherine Narducci. Nicholas Pileggi writer of “Goodfellas,” has joined as the writer which will give all the movie buffs something familiar to tie the storylines to classic mafia story telling.
Director Barry Levinson makes a return with "Alto Knights", the first big theatrical release since his last film in 2015. The experience and talents from both director and writer show a commitment to a story that feels authentic. It will create a strong team showcasing what goes into a film of high quality caliber.
The movie will explore New York City and mob activity which gives the viewer classic mob-movie themes with elements of style from the era they are in. The familiar aspects create comfort with visual appeal and a balance of old and new for a familiar story with a unique new take.
Slick cars smoking guns and all elements familiar to the world are featured for all to experience. There are scenes such as a tense dialogue where both versions of De Niro talk from across a table to demonstrate dual character dynamics which are part of key visuals. There is attention to detail in creating a look to match a familiar time with some changes.
The early audience has been mixed which questions how this will actually translate to wider releases. Some feel that De Niro playing two different parts diminishes any chance at success while others think he is perfect for each role. There is both enthusiasm as well as worry on the different views being expressed regarding the direction taken by filmmakers for this production.
Some have stated it shows that the movie may be a disaster which will not reach great potential. Others however may argue there has yet to be full proof the production should not have positive feed back with strong lead actors taking on the unique approach. Those various viewpoints will ultimately see the project become successful to various communities regardless of outside opinions as fans have varied takes.
The Alto Knights is scheduled for release in theaters on March 21, 2025 in both US and the UK . Warner Bros has yet to release more details of a possible streaming platform after its initial theatrical run. Details for where to view at home are to be determined with other dates set to be announced closer to the debut.