Robert DeNiro is back in the mobster genre with a bang this March 21st as he takes on dual roles in The Alto Knights. The film, written by Goodfellas screenwriter Nicholas Pileggi, is based on the true story of the feud between Frank Costello and Vito Genovese, two notorious figures in the organized crime world of mid-20th century New York City, both portrayed by DeNiro. The movie sheds light on the dramatic saga of these two influential mobsters.
An Underworld Rivalry Unveiled:
- Prohibition: The mob’s rise to power during the Prohibition era was the catalyst for Costello and Genovese’s ascent. They both capitalized on rum running and bootlegging, becoming formidable figures in organized crime. Genovese’s street smarts clashed with Costello’s political maneuvering, leading to a tense rivalry brilliantly depicted in The Alto Knights.
- Power Dynamics: Costello’s influence extended to the political sphere, using his connections to control judges, police, and even introducing slot machines in major cities. Genovese, on the other hand, was a ruthless enforcer known for his street-level tactics. The movie captures their power struggle as Genovese plots to overthrow Costello and seize control of the mafia in New York.
The Climactic Apalachin Meeting:
- The Apalachin Summit: A pivotal moment in the movie showcases a real-life historical event – the Apalachin Meeting, where law enforcement crashed a gathering of mob leaders. The movie’s portrayal of this dramatic scene, complete with stuck Cadillacs and fleeing mobsters, adds depth to the narrative.
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Costello’s Escape: The film tantalizingly suggests that Costello may have sabotaged the meeting, leading to speculation about his involvement. While the truth remains elusive, the movie’s interpretation adds intrigue to the storyline.
The Fates of Costello and Genovese:
Vito Genovese’s reign met a premature end with a prison sentence for heroin trafficking, followed by his demise in 1969. Costello, too, faced legal troubles but managed to live out his days tending to his garden. Their era marked the twilight of mob dominance in America, with the enactment of RICO dealing a blow to organized crime.
In the modern landscape, organized crime has evolved into a global, shadowy web led by international syndicates. Though the era of the “Five Families” may have passed, the legacy of Costello and Genovese lives on in the ever-changing underworld.
As The Alto Knights unravels the turbulent saga of these mob legends, audiences are left contemplating the legacy of organized crime and the complex characters that shaped it. The rise and fall of Costello and Genovese serve as a poignant reminder of the murky world of power, ambition, and betrayal that defined an era.
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